India ranks third among nations in terms of the highest number of cancers. Over 13 lakh people in India suffer from cancers every year, as per the National Cancer Registry Program report.

Dr. Pratik Patil is a Medical Oncologist in Pune and currently practicing in Sahyadri group of Hospitals, Pune. For the past 9 years, he has worked as a Medical Oncologist.

Early symptoms of cancer 

Dr. Pratik Patil informs, “The cancer cases have been rising tremendously in the last 5-10 years. The main reasons behind these cancer issues are- Adulteration of drinking and food. 

The early signs and symptoms of cancer are- 

• Unintentional weight loss 

• Swelling, lump, or ulcer for more than 4 weeks after medications 

• Jaundice and yellowness of eyes 

• Blood in stools and urine."

Chemicals and pollutants causing cancer 

Dr. Pratik Patil states, “Some of the cities in India, especially New Delhi, there are many types of cancer such as- 

• Lung cancer due to polluted air
• Gallbladder and esophageal cancer 

Initially, lung cancer was very common only in smokers or tobacco chewers. But, nowadays cancer is on the high rise due to polluted air. There are people who are now getting cancer issues even though they are not taking in any smoking, alcohol, or tobacco. This is due to water and air pollution. To prevent adverse effects of pollution, ensure to– 

• Wear mask
• Filter the water or boil water.”

Blood test to detect cancer 

Dr. Pratik Patil says, “Blood tests can help in detecting cancers these days. For example- 

• Prostate cancer
• Oesophageal cancer
• Breast cancer 
• Ovarian cancer 
• Uterine cancer
• Cervix cancer 
• Family history of cancer  
• Exposure hazard to pollutants and addiction. 
• Chemical exposure working industries 

Blood tests help in the early detection of cancer. Other tests are also required to confirm cancer."

Treatment of cancer by Oncologist 

Dr. Pratik Patil informs, “Medical oncologist treats cancer in following way- 

• Biopsy - bedside 2 min test for tissue detection to check the spread of cancer
• Radiological scans, Xray, and CT scan for the spread of cancer 
• Depending on the diagnostic test, the treatment is suggested."

Diagnosis for cancer

Dr. Pratik Patil states, “There is no such individualization for cancer diagnosis. The diagnosis of cancer can be made based on the following cases 

• Positive Family history of cancer cases - Routine check-up for cancer is a must 
• Addictions cases - Routine check-up for cancer is a must 
• No high-risk factor cases - Above 45+ years of age 

It is important to check for routine blood tests annually and a routine check-up for cancer after 45+ years of age." 

Rapid fire

1. Do hair dyes, antiperspirants, and deodorants can cause cancer? Dr. Pratik Patil states, “No, hair dyes and deodorants do not cause cancer. It is important to use the ISI product mark brand which has gone through testing. Use standardized products which are labeled to avoid carcinogenic elements.”
2. Does a workout help during cancer treatment? Dr. Pratik Patil states, “Workout makes the body fitter and controls BMI. It has been studied that controlled BMI and non-obese patients respond well to treatment. It is always recommended to work out and keep fit based on height. Fitness is always recommended.” 
3. Can excessive sun exposure cause cancer? Dr. Pratik Patil informs,” Yes, excessive sun exposure can cause skin cancer called melanoma especially seen in white-skinned people and western countries. If you are a farmer or exposed to the sun for a long time, use sun protectants and scarves to avoid skin exposure to the sun."