How is lung cancer treated? Let's go into detail

 How is lung cancer treated? Let's go into detail

Surgery can be an important treatment when the cancer is confined to the lungs and the patient can tolerate surgery.

Lung cancer may not have symptoms in the early stages, so if you have a cough, chest pain, or blood in your sputum, you should see your doctor.

Lung cancer is one of the most serious health problems worldwide. Since there may be no obvious symptoms in its early stages, many people are diagnosed only after the disease has spread. People who smoke for a long time are especially at risk. However, even non-smokers can get lung cancer. Timely diagnosis of the disease and starting the correct treatment according to the type and condition of cancer is considered very important for the treatment results.

Lung cancer is mainly of two types, non-small cell lung cancer and small cell lung cancer. Non-small cell lung cancer is seen relatively more. These two types of cancer may differ in growth, spread and treatment. Therefore, all patients with lung cancer are not treated in the same way.

Why does lung cancer occur?

The most important risk factor for lung cancer is smoking. Consumption of cigarettes, bindis and other tobacco products increases its risk. Second-hand smoke can also increase the risk of living with a smoker for long periods of time.

Similarly, exposure to air pollution, long-term contact with some industrial chemicals, radon gas, and some types of dust or toxic substances in the workplace can also increase the risk. Although the risk increases with age, lung cancer can occur in people of any age.

What are the initial symptoms?

In the early stages of lung cancer, there may be no symptoms. Symptoms may include prolonged coughing, changes in the appearance of an old cough, difficulty breathing, chest pain, blood in the sputum, frequent lung infections, changes in voice, abnormal weight loss, loss of appetite, and excessive fatigue.

The presence of any of these symptoms does not necessarily mean that cancer is present. These symptoms can also be seen in many other diseases. But if the symptoms persist for a long time, it is necessary to check with a doctor.

How is cancer diagnosed before treatment?

If lung cancer is suspected, the doctor will conduct necessary tests after obtaining information about the patient's health history, smoking status and symptoms. Usually, imaging tests such as chest X-rays and CT scans can look for abnormal lumps or other changes in the lungs.

But imaging tests alone do not definitively confirm cancer. Biopsy is done if necessary. In this, tissue or cells are removed from the suspicious part and tested in the laboratory.

In some cases, the necessary tissue can be removed by viewing the inside of the trachea and lungs through bronchoscopy. In some cases, a sample is taken from the lung nodule through a needle. Sputum cytology can also be done to see if there are cancer cells in the stool.

Why is it important to find out the stage of cancer?

The next important step after cancer is confirmed is staging. That is, how big the cancer is, whether it has spread to nearby lymph nodes and whether it has reached other parts of the body is found out.

For this, tests such as CT scan, PET scan, MRI of the brain can be done as needed. Knowing the stage of cancer makes it easier to plan the right treatment.

Generally, lung cancer is classified into different stages from early stage to advanced stage. In the early stages, the cancer may be limited to the lungs, while in the advanced stage, it may spread to nearby lymph nodes or other parts of the body.

Why are biomarker and gene testing important?

Especially in non-small cell lung cancer, molecular or biomarker tests can be important in choosing treatment. Cancer cells can be tested for certain gene changes such as EGFR, ALK, ROS, BRAF, KRAS, MET, RET, and NTRK. Similarly, in some cases, biomarkers such as PD-L1 are also tested.

Such tests help the doctor to decide which of the targeted drugs or immunotherapy might be useful. So just knowing the name of the cancer is not enough when the cancer is confirmed; It may also be important to understand its biological characteristics.

How is lung cancer treated?

Lung cancer treatment is not the same for all patients. Treatment is selected based on the type of cancer, stage, gene mutation, tumor location, patient's age, lung function and overall health.

1. Surgery

Surgery can be an important treatment when the cancer is confined to the lungs and the patient can tolerate surgery. In surgery, the cancerous part is removed.

Wedge resection or segmentectomy can be done in small tumors. A lobectomy is performed in cases where the entire lobe with cancer needs to be removed. In special circumstances, pneumonectomy is performed when the entire lung needs to be removed. During surgery, nearby lymph nodes can also be removed to check if the cancer has spread.

2. Chemotherapy

In chemotherapy, drugs are used to stop or destroy the growth of cancer cells. Medicines are usually given intravenously, but some medicines can also be taken orally are Chemotherapy may be used to reduce the size of the tumor before surgery or to destroy cancer cells that may remain in the body after surgery. In advanced cases, it is also used to control the growth of the disease and reduce the symptoms.

Side effects such as fatigue, nausea, loss of appetite, hair loss and decrease in the number of blood cells may occur during chemotherapy. But not all side effects are seen in all patients and many can be controlled with medication and other supportive treatments.

3. Radiation therapy

In radiation therapy, an attempt is made to destroy or control cancer cells by targeting high-energy rays at the cancerous part. It can be used before or after surgery. Radiation may be the main treatment for some early cancers that cannot be operated on. In advanced cases, radiation can also be used to reduce pain, bleeding, or other symptoms caused by the spread of cancer.

4. Stereotactic body radiotherapy

Stereotactic body radiotherapy is a very precise technique of radiation therapy. In this, a high dose of radiation is targeted at a specific location with a small tumor and an attempt is made to protect the surrounding healthy tissue as much as possible. This treatment may be useful in some early-stage non-small cell lung cancer patients who cannot undergo surgery.

5. Targeted drug therapy

Targeted therapy can be used if certain gene changes or other specific biological changes are found in cancer cells. Its purpose is to target specific processes that cause cancer to grow compared to normal cells. But targeted drugs are not effective for all patients who do not have gene changes. Therefore, it is important to test the necessary biomarkers before treatment.

6. Immunotherapy

Immunotherapy helps the body's immune system to work effectively against cancer cells. In some types of advanced lung cancer, immunotherapy may be used alone or in combination with chemotherapy. The doctor decides which patient to give this treatment based on the type of cancer, stage and necessary biomarker tests.

7. Supportive care is also important during treatment

Cancer treatment is not only about removing the tumor or stopping the growth of cancer. Management of problems such as pain, difficulty breathing, nausea, loss of appetite, weakness and mental stress during treatment is also important.

This is called supportive or palliative care. Such care can be initiated not only at the end of treatment but also as needed along with cancer treatment. Its purpose is to improve the patient's quality of life and control symptoms.

Why is regular follow-up necessary after treatment?

Even after the treatment is completed, regular follow-up is necessary. The doctor can perform a physical examination, necessary imaging and other tests based on the patient's condition. From this, it can be evaluated whether the cancer has reappeared, whether the treatment has long-term effects, and whether additional treatment is necessary.

What can be done to prevent lung cancer?

Not all lung cancer risks can be prevented, but many significant risks can be reduced. One of the most important steps a smoker can take is to quit smoking. Stay away from other people's smoke as much as possible.

People who come into contact with dust, chemicals or other hazardous substances in the workplace must use the necessary protective equipment. In case of high air pollution, it is also useful to take measures to reduce the risk.

Treatment is not the same for everyone

The treatment of lung cancer is now more developed than ever before. New treatments such as surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy, along with targeted drugs and immunotherapy, have expanded treatment options for many patients. But the treatment is not the same for all patients. Based on the type of cancer, stage, biomarkers, patient's health condition and response to treatment, the expert doctor decides the treatment plan.

Therefore, symptoms such as prolonged coughing, blood in the sputum, chest pain, difficulty in breathing or weight loss without any reason should not be ignored. Medical examination should be done on time.

14 Questions and Answers about HPV Vaccine Against Cervical Cancer

 14 Questions and Answers about HPV Vaccine Against Cervical Cancer

What is the HPV vaccine?

The vaccine against cervical cancer is called the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine.

Why get it?

– To prevent cervical cancer and other diseases caused by the HPV virus

– To prevent cervical cancer, which is the most common type of cancer in women

Who should get it?

– The younger the age, the better

– Most effective in the age group of 9 to 14

– Women can also get it as per the doctor's advice

Where is it available?

This vaccine can be given in private hospitals. Currently, the government is providing it free of charge through the vaccination program campaign.

Who is the free vaccine for?

– Girls from grades 6 to 10, and girls aged 10 to 14 if they do not go to school

When will the vaccination campaign start?

– It will run for 15 days from Magh 23 to Falgun 6.

Which company's vaccine is being given?

– Nepal is currently preparing to provide the Cicoline brand vaccine made in China.

How much should be administered?

– This vaccine is only given once.

How effective is this vaccine?

– It is claimed that this vaccine is 91 percent effective. It is 100 percent safe if administered before becoming sexually active.

Where can the vaccine be administered?

– It can be administered in government and private schools and nearby health institutions in all seven provinces.

Can it be administered individually?

– Women who are not covered by the vaccination campaign can go to a private hospital to get it.

How much does it cost?

– The price of the HPV vaccine in Nepal can range from 3,000 to 10,000 rupees in the private sector.

What happens if you don't get the vaccine?

– If you don't get the vaccine, you can get infected with the HPV virus and develop cervical cancer. Every year, 2,000 people die from cervical cancer in Nepal.

Isn't this vaccine for medical trials?

The HPV vaccine is a reliable vaccine being provided in Nepal under the cervical cancer prevention program in collaboration with the Ministry of Health and the World Health Organization.

One dose of HPV vaccine is enough

The government gave free HPV vaccine to girls against cervical cancer in Bhadra last year. 10,000 girls who have completed 14 years and have not completed 15 years were given HPV vaccine from central hospitals in all seven provinces. At that time, the vaccine was given in two doses.

But in the nationwide vaccination campaign that will be launched from 22 Magh on the occasion of World Cancer Day, only one dose is being given.

The World Health Organization has recognized three vaccines against cervical cancer, out of which the vaccine being given in Nepal is of the Cicoline brand made in China. The Cicoline brand vaccine was given last Bhadra as well.

But why was the vaccine dose reduced this time?

Dr. Abhiyan Gautam, who is the head of the Child Health and Vaccination Branch, said that the dose of the vaccine was reduced on the recommendation of the new research, guidelines and the Vaccination Advisory Committee. “Research has shown that even one dose works completely,” Dr. Gautam said, “The antibodies that should be formed after vaccination are the ones that are needed to protect the body from the virus.” It turned out that one dose did not make a difference.’

In this campaign, a total of 1.688 million 768 people, including girls from grades 6 to 10 who do not go to school, including girls aged 10 to 14, will be vaccinated. A total of 1.77 million 20 vials of vaccine will be received from Gavi for that. So far, 1.5 million vials of the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine used against cervical cancer have been received in three phases. The remaining two will arrive in a few days, according to the Department of Health Services.

The government is conducting a vaccination campaign from Magh 23 to protect girls from cervical cancer. The HPV vaccination campaign will run for 15 days (Magh 23 to Falgun 6). 18,900 schools have been designated as vaccination centers. 8,000 centers have been designated in health institutions other than schools.

Dr. Gautam said that 27,080 health workers, 54,160 volunteers, and 15,674 supervisors will be mobilized for the vaccination campaign. "We have planned to vaccinate girls at the school level from January," Gautam told Online News. "We also vaccinate children outside of school through health institutions."

The HPV virus is contagious and spreads easily. It is mainly transmitted through skin-to-skin contact.

According to doctors, the main reasons for the virus infection are getting married at a young age, having children at a young age, having many children, having children in a short period of time, having sex with many people, having unprotected sex, smoking and drinking a lot, and not paying attention to genital hygiene.

According to doctors, 80 percent of people are infected with HPV by the time they reach the age of 30 to 45. If women and men can get vaccinated before they come into contact with the HPV virus, it will give the best results. Because the vaccine prevents infection. But if the virus has already settled in the body, it cannot make it free from infection.

The HPV vaccine also protects against cervical cancer, anal cancer, throat and genital cancer. According to doctors, the HPV vaccine, if administered before sexual intercourse, provides 90 percent protection for life.

Doctors say that since HPV-related cancers may not show any symptoms in the early stages, vaccination and regular screening are necessary. Since the government is unable to easily provide the vaccine, private organizations have been importing and distributing the vaccine at their own expense. Therefore, women are forced to pay high fees for the vaccine.

Smokers can get throat cancer, voice changes should be checked

 Smokers can get throat cancer, voice changes should be checked

Cigarettes contain various cancer-causing chemicals such as 'hydrocarbon', 'benzene' and others. Its effect is from the lungs to all parts of the body. Among them, cigarette smoke in the throat is more likely to cause cancer.

The neck does not mean only the neck. It includes food pipe to larynx. Cigarette smoke can cause cancer in these parts.

Many people may have a question, how many cigarettes can you get cancer? Or how many years of smoking can cause cancer?

There is no exact answer. Human body, conditions are different. It can damage some people quickly and others after a long time. There is no guarantee that most smokers will get cancer. However, the risk of cancer is high for smokers.

And be careful

You have been smoking for a long time. In this situation, your voice changed. As the voice can be hoarse, it can be slurred. Let's not pretend that we have a cold or a cold at this time. Because if there is a change in the voice for three consecutive weeks, then a cancer test should be done.

If there is cancer in the throat of those who smoke cigarettes, the voice starts to change. Then it becomes difficult to swallow food. Breathing becomes difficult. As if having increased breath. When neck pain starts, you should go to the doctor. A biopsy should be done. Because changes in voice and wheezing are the primary symptoms of cancer.

Dr. Arun Casey

Cancer of nose and ear also

Smokers are not only at risk of developing throat, but also nose and ear cancer. If there are problems like sore throat, nasal allergy, it can be a symptom of cancer.

Besides, smoking also causes other ear related problems.

Treatment is easy in the initial moment

As soon as there is a change in the voice of the smoker, he must go to the hospital. The sooner you can go to the hospital, the faster the treatment can be.

The longer one smokes, the higher the risk of cancer. As soon as the symptoms of cancer appear, if you go to the hospital and consult a doctor, treatment is possible according to the stage of the cancer.

Endoscopy should be done to find out which part of the neck is swollen or has symptoms of cancer. If cancer is suspected during endoscopy, a biopsy should be done. A biopsy is used to determine if it is cancer or not.

The treatment method depends on how far the cancer has spread and what stage it is. If you reach the hospital in the first stage, its treatment is easy. If there is second and third stage, the treatment is complicated. For example, if a first-stage cancer is detected in a person's respiratory tract, it can be removed with a laser.

If the second and third stage cancer is detected in the same person, if it has spread too much, the larynx itself may have to be removed by major surgery. You may have to live with a hole in your neck for the rest of your life.

Let's quit smoking

Therefore, smoking should be avoided to avoid various health problems along with cancer. The risk of asthma, cancer and other health problems can be avoided from the day after quitting smoking.

What is chemotherapy used in the treatment of cancer?

 What is chemotherapy used in the treatment of cancer?

There are many types of cancer such as breast cancer, lung cancer, uterine cancer, colon cancer. All these cancers have a common cause, the abnormal growth of cells. In this disease, uncontrolled division of cells starts in any part of the body.

Chemotherapy is the most common treatment method used in the treatment of cancer. Chemotherapy is used to destroy cancer cells. Chemotherapy stops cancer cells from spreading. It works by preventing other cells from forming, growing and dividing. Because cancer cells usually grow and divide faster than normal cells.

Therefore, chemotherapy has a greater effect on cancer cells. But the drugs used for chemotherapy are so powerful that sometimes they can even affect healthy cells.

Just as the medicine used in the treatment of bacteria is called antibiotic, the medicine used in the treatment of cancer is called chemotherapy. Chemotherapy, hormonal therapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, CAR T cell therapy and bone marrow transplants are all systemic therapies used in the treatment of cancer.

Which stage cancer patients are given chemotherapy?

Chemotherapy should be given to patients according to the condition, stage and type of cancer. Some need to be given chemo in the initial stage, while some need to be given only in the fourth stage. This therapy is often more necessary in the second, third and fourth stages than in the first stage.

Chemo is given to diagnose some cancers, reduce some and prevent some patients from growing. In the first stage of breast cancer, cancer can be cured by surgery and radiation alone, there is no need to continue giving chemo. Chemo is not necessary even in the early stages of colon cancer. Apart from these two, in some cancers, chemo may be given in the first stage.

How often should chemotherapy be given to cancer patients?

Which cancer is it and what is the condition? Accordingly, the number of chemo may vary. In ovarian cancer, 6 cycles of chemo are enough, in breast cancer, four to eight cycles are given. There may be a decrease in other cancers.

Especially in lung cancer, there is an example of giving chemo for a long time. But generally it may be given from four times throughout life.

Some side-effects of chemotherapy

Cancer is a chronic disease. In this, the cells of the body divide uncontrollably, this process of division is stopped by chemotherapy. Chemo also kills the bad cells that divide uncontrollably, along with the normal cells that develop every day. Hair cells develop daily. Chemo affects it, causing hair loss.

Another thing is that our digestive system, from the mouth to the anus, also develops daily. It also affects it, causing problems such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and constipation. Lack of white and red blood. In addition, there are problems such as dry menstruation in women and lack of sperm in men. These problems are seen because chemo kills new cells.

Medical science has also developed drugs that reduce these side-effects that occur during chemotherapy. So do not be afraid to use this medicine.

How is chemotherapy given?

About 90 percent of chemotherapy is given intravenously. If it is to be given by injection, chemo drugs are given by injection after admission.

It is also given as an oral medicine to some patients. Also, if someone's cancer has spread to the brain, chemotherapy is also given from the back. If someone has skin cancer, it is also given as an ointment.

Things to consider in people receiving chemotherapy

First of all, a person undergoing chemotherapy should pay special attention to their diet. Because what is needed to form new cells in our body is obtained from a healthy and balanced diet. Fresh home-made food should also be eaten with a little more protein. Drink plenty of water.

It is also important for people taking chemo to get enough rest. You should rest for seven to 10 hours daily. It is also good to do light exercise daily. Keep your body active by doing jogging, yoga and light exercise at home.

While undergoing cancer treatment, the immune system is also weak, so there is a higher chance of infection. In this case, special attention should be paid to hygiene, use of masks if you have to avoid crowded places, etc.

After receiving chemotherapy, if a blue stain appears on the body, sores appear, gums or nose bleeds, you should immediately contact the treating doctor.

Other drug treatments for cancer

Targeted therapy: This treatment targets genes or proteins found in cancer cells. Those genes or proteins are needed to develop specific cancer cells.

Immunotherapy: This treatment helps the body's natural defenses to fight cancer. This treatment is used today for some types of cancer.

Hormone therapy: This treatment changes the amount of hormones in the body. Hormones contain chemicals. Hormones are naturally produced in the body. It helps in controlling the activity of certain cells or organs. Hormone levels control many types of cancer Doctors use hormone therapy. This includes some breast and prostate cancers.

Kar-T cell therapy: Kar-T cell is a special treatment method, which has been found to be very effective in blood cancer patients. It is a treatment technique that uses immune cells called 'T', which are present in the patient's body. The 'T' cells in the body, especially in the blood system, are taken out and genetically engineered in the laboratory to recognize cancer and act against it, and then sent into the patient's body, which can kill the cancer.

Bone marrow transplant: Blood cancer that cannot be cured by chemotherapy is treated with bone marrow transplant. Bone marrow transplantation is the process of destroying the unhealthy bone marrow in the body and placing another healthy bone marrow.

Does sugar cause cancer?

 Does sugar cause cancer?

 The news that eating too much sugar causes cancer is now being heard on social media. Experts also suggest not to mix sugar in food as much as possible.

Does sugar really cause cancer? And does sugar help cancer cells grow?

First let's understand about sugar.

According to nutritionist Pratima Sen, there are different types of sugar. Types of sugar include glucose, lactose, sucrose and fructose.

Dr. Sen says, 'Fruits contain more glucose and fructose. Lactose is found in dairy products like milk and cheese. Honey and fruits contain glucose and it is not harmful. But if you eat more processed sugar i.e. food with sucrose, it will harm the body.

Pratima KC, Nutritionist

Sugar and Cancer

Sugar increases obesity. And obesity is a risk factor for diabetes. There is no doubt about it. Because if the amount of sugar increases in the body, it remains in the body as unnecessary fat. And, it brings obesity.

But science has not been able to make a clear conclusion about how it causes cancer or how it causes cancer.

What does the study say?

Last year, a study by French scientists found that sugar increases the risk of cancer. According to the study, if you drink an additional 100 milliliters of such sugary products every day, the risk of cancer increases by 18 percent.

This news created waves in the public mind. Mice were used in that study. But it was not tested on humans. They argue that more studies are yet to be done for this. Even some studies have not been able to say that it has been clearly confirmed.

Some experts believe that obesity can cause cancer even though there is no evidence that sugar is directly linked to cancer. Every cell in the body is used for blood sugar (glucose). Glucose brings energy to the body.

But cancer cells use about 200 times more energy than normal cells. The tumor grows thinner and wider, which requires more and more glucose from the lungs to grow. What this shows is that glucose also helps in the formation of cancer cells.

The American Cancer Society and the National Cancer Institute also do not say that sugar causes cancer.

Fat cells secrete inflammatory proteins called adipokines. These elements can damage human DNA and cause tumors. The more fat cells accumulate, the more deadly protein remains in the body. Obesity increases the risk of 13 types of cancer, including breast cancer, liver cancer and colon cancer.

According to the American Cancer Society and National Cancer Institute, sugar does not contain carcinogenic elements that cause cancer. However, eating too much sugar can increase the risk of obesity and cancer. But there is no evidence that cancer cells cause cancer by multiplying rapidly.

The rumor that sugar causes cancer

Dr. Arun Shahi, Oncologist

It is not true that the sugar we eat causes cancer. No matter how many studies and researches have been done on this, no concrete evidence has been found. There has not been a comprehensive study on this.

It can be seen that some people believe such rumours, and give up sugary foods at once, which is not considered good in terms of health. There are as many foods as we eat. Protein, carbohydrates and fat are made from it.

Dr. Arun Shahi

Sometimes, the diet is not good and after prolonged starvation, protein and fat are also converted into glucose. What this means is that we need glucose for energy. But too much can promote obesity and diabetes.

If obesity is not controlled or diabetes has reached 10 to 15 years, stomach cancer can occur. Cancer is the uncontrolled division of cells. These divided cells also need glucose to grow. Which is obtained more from carbohydrates and sugar products.

Therefore, glucose is the basic fuel that powers each of our cells. If we eat or drink foods that contain a lot of glucose, it is absorbed directly into the blood, where it is ready to be used by the cells.

If you look at it this way, sugary foods do not directly affect you, but if you have obesity and diabetes and if you do not control it, if you eat too much processed sugary foods, there is definitely a risk of cancer.

How is sugar made?

To make sugar, the sugarcane must first be cut after it is ripe. Then cut the sugarcane into small pieces. The cut sugarcane should be washed so that it is clean and the juice should be extracted from it. Then it is cleaned by dissolving it in lime and sulphur. By doing this, mud and dirt are removed. And sugar grains are made by cooking in different stages.

Even if you don't eat sugar?

According to nutritionist Pratima Sen KC, sugar candies are eaten for taste. It is a source of carbohydrates. Rice, wheat, like the food we eat, is also a source of carbohydrates, when we eat these foods, they are also converted into sugar. That's why doctors say that even if we don't eat extra sugar, we can get the sugar our body needs from other foods as well," she says.

According to the American Heart Association, a man should not eat more than 36 grams or 150 calories of sugar per day. Women should not eat more than 25 grams or 100 calories of sugar.

What can be eaten instead of sugar?

Some people use Misri, Sakhar's Q. as a substitute for sugar They do yoga. But this is not a good option, because the amount of carbohydrates and glycemic index is the same in Misri and Sugar, says Casey.

"It is better not to use corn and sugar as a substitute for sugar," she says, "We can use natural sugar as a substitute for sugar." For example, fruits, chickpeas, raisins, etc. are sources of natural sugar.

Is it better to stop eating salt and sugar?

 Don't eat too much junk food, it contains a lot of salt. Cold drink should not be drunk, it has a lot of sugar.

This is what we hear a lot. Sugar and salt seem to be blamed for diseases ranging from high blood pressure to diabetes. Are sugar and salt really the enemy of health? What happens when you give up salt and sugar?

Nutritionist Ujjwal Rayamazhi says that the role of both salt and sugar is important for the body to function in a healthy manner. Consuming too much salt and sugar has a negative effect on health. But using limited amounts of salt and sugar in daily food does not make much difference,” he says.

Salt is made up of sodium and chlorine. which is necessary to maintain fluid level balance and control muscle contractions. Also, sugar is a form of carbohydrate and is a good source of energy for our daily activities, says Rayamazhi.

What happens when you use too much?

If you use too much salt and sugar, you can get many types of diseases. According to nutritionist Rayamazhi, excessive use of it leads to high blood pressure, diabetes, heart problems and kidney problems.

"For some time now, the use of food available in the market has increased rapidly. Most of these foods available in the market are high in salt and sugar. Such food also increases the risk of high blood pressure and diabetes and also increases obesity, he says.

The role of salt-sugar in weight gain

Carbohydrates are high in sugar. Therefore, consuming too much can lead to obesity. "But if it is used in a very small amount, it can help in weight control," says Rayamazhi.

The sodium in salt increases hunger hormones, leading to overeating and weight gain. Similarly, Raimajhi suggests that reducing the amount of salt will reduce the risk of high blood pressure and obesity.

Eating foods that are high in salt increases the amount of sodium in the body. When the amount of sodium increases, the body reduces the production of urine, increases thirst and the body stores more water. Which increases the weight of water in the body," he says.

What happens when you give up salt and sugar?

Food without salt and sugar can hardly be imagined, we have become accustomed to it. Rayamazhi says, "Therefore, if you leave it suddenly, the body may lack micronutrients." Hormones can be unbalanced, so it should be reduced gradually rather than quitting suddenly.

Sodium is needed to control the amount of water in the body. Sodium plays an important role in exchanging information from the brain to other parts of the body. Salt is its main source. Also, sodium is needed to keep the muscles active. Therefore, it is better to reduce the quantity than to quit suddenly,” says Rayamazhi.

Carbohydrates are needed for daily energy which is found in sugar. Rayamazhi says, "But since we get carbohydrates from other food sources, it is appropriate to consume them in a very small amount."

Harmful chemicals in condoms increase cancer and infertility risk: study

 Harmful chemicals in condoms increase cancer and infertility risk: study

Condoms are often used for safe sex. Which is a good habit. It also reduces the risk of sexually transmitted diseases as well as other sexually transmitted diseases like HIV. Similarly, different types of lubricants are used to reduce irritation during sexual intercourse. But their use can also cause various problems. People who use condoms and lubricants may suffer from cancer and infertility.

Harmful chemicals in condoms and lubricants

A study was conducted by the Environmental Protection Agency, which found that many well-known brands of condoms and lubricants use harmful chemicals. According to the study, a group of 'PFS' 15,000 synthetic chemicals are used to make them. These chemicals have been confirmed to be found in many brands of ultra-thin condoms and jelly lubricants. PFS is commonly used in condoms to maintain their softness and fluidity.

Can be cancer

According to some studies done on 'PFS', its exposure also increases the risk of cancer. Sometimes it can cause testicular cancer as well as kidney cancer. Studies have shown that in some cases, its excessive use can cause problems related to infertility. Also, exposure to this chemical increases the risk of prostate cancer as well as breast cancer. It has been found that apart from endometrial cancer, it can also cause thyroid cancer.

Other harm caused by 'PFS'

Exposure to these chemicals in condoms and lubricants can cause various problems in both men and women.

According to experts, if condoms are used more than twice a week, the sensitivity of the inner layer and membrane of the vagina starts to lose gradually. As a result, the secretion of fluid from the vagina of a woman is reduced or completely stopped, which can cause pain or dryness in the vagina.

According to experts, exposure to PFS affects sperm count, which can lead to infertility. Exposure to 'PFS' can cause liver damage as well as thyroid problems.

This chemical can sometimes weaken the immune system and cause other problems as well.

Cervical cancer kills 500,000 people every year, fear is not checked in time

 Cervical cancer kills 500,000 people every year, fear is not checked in time

Everyone has a mother, sister-in-law, brother-in-law in their house. They may have looked healthy. However, in reality, they are always at risk of a fatal disease. That is - cervical cancer. Every woman between 30 and 60 years of age is at risk of this disease.

Women who are married at a young age, have many children, have sexual relations with many people, and take family planning pills for a long time are at high risk of cervical cancer. Women who have sex only once in their life are equally at risk of this disease.

Because of this danger, it is in the first place among the cancers that occur in women. After this disease, the treatment is expensive and complicated. "That's why it's better not to get sick", said Dr. Sarita Ghimire says, 'And, that can be done easily.'

Expert experience

Gynecologist and oncologist Sarita Ghimire, who has permanent residence in Ramechhap, is an MBBS and MD from the Institute of Medical Studies (IOM).

When he got his MD in 2004 in Gynecology and Obstetrics, cancer hospitals were just starting to open in Nepal. Along with this, the number of cancer patients was increasing rapidly.

Dr. is looking at that situation. Ghimire went to Bharatpur Cancer Hospital and took special training related to cancer. After that, she also went to Pakistan and UK for specialist training. Since then, it has been 15 years since he worked in the prevention of cervical cancer.

Dr. is currently working as a chief consultant at Talchikhel Cancer Care Foundation in Lalitpur. Ghimire's emphasis is on early disease detection. For this purpose, she reaches district after district to raise public awareness. In his experience, 6 to 8 out of 100 people who come to the hospital for cervical check-up have already reached the transition stage of cancer. Dr. Ghimire says, 'This data shows the benefits of raising public awareness.'

When she joined Bhaktapur Cancer Hospital, she became more active in running camps in the districts. In those camps, information was given about various cancers including cervical cancer, breast cancer. Women have more cervical cancer, but since it can be prevented, the number of people who come to the hospital for examination has increased. There is an experience of wandering. And, it has given him professional satisfaction.

In the camps, she used to keep scary photos, afraid to go to the hospital for an examination. It is human nature not to take anything seriously and not to change habits until fear arises in the mind, Dr. Ghimire says, 'which will become fatal itself tomorrow.'

According to him, around 528,000 women in the world suffer from cervical cancer every year. What is the situation in Nepal? "In Nepal, 20-22 percent of women who come to the hospital for cancer treatment suffer from cervical cancer", Dr. Ghimire says, 'Detailed study is yet to be done on this.'

There are no symptoms at first

After the cancer of the cervix has increased a lot, foul-smelling and blood-tinged water starts to flow. The appearance of blood even when there is no menstruation or the appearance of blood again in women who have dried up their periods is also a sign of cervical cancer. When this cancer spreads a lot, it causes bloating, leg swelling, waist and back pain, and problems with defecation and urination.

To avoid this, women who have reached the age of 30 and who have had sex, even if it is only once in their life, should be examined by a trained health worker at least once every three to five years. Ghimire suggests. She says, 'Women who have dry periods and who have undergone surgery due to the possibility of cancer should also undergo regular examination of the uterus.'

During the examination, the health workers put medicine in the mouth of the uterus and check the visual inspection with acetic acid (VREA). Earlier, Pap Smear Test (PST) was used to detect the presence of cancer infection in the mouth of the cervix or not. VREA is more of a scientific method than that.

Infection can be prevented if known

Cervical cancer is caused by infection with a virus called human papilloma. This virus takes the form of cancer after 15 to 20 years of infection. Dr. According to Ghimire, the human papilloma virus can survive for 15-20 years. If the immunity is high, the body can even eliminate it. In those with low immunity, it causes subtle changes and causes cancer.

Cervical cancer can be prevented by knowing before regular check-up. Ghimire says. "However, our women are so involved in household responsibilities that they don't even have time to think of a hospital until the illness takes a serious form."

Breast cancer causes and treatment

 Breast cancer causes and treatment

Recently, the problem of breast cancer in women is increasing. The exact cause of breast cancer cannot be said. 5 to 10 percent of these are also hereditary.

The Nepal Health Research Council conducted a study on breast cancer in seven districts of Nepal, out of which the number of women with breast cancer was very high in five districts.

Various studies have shown that women between the ages of 50 and 60 are more prone to breast cancer than others. In Nepal, breast cancer is more common among women in the age group of 40 to 50 years.

Symptoms

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The main symptom of breast cancer is swelling in the breast. Such a girkha is painless and grows. There are problems such as burying of nipples, discoloration, thickening of the skin, pus or blood flowing from nipples, and non-healing of wounds.

identification

Symptoms of breast cancer can appear very late. Therefore, if you want to detect breast cancer in time, you should not wait for the symptoms. Women over 40 should have a mammogram once a year. If mammogram is not available, then ultrasound should be done.

Women over the age of 20 should have a breast exam every year. If you do the examination in this way, it can be detected before it occurs and timely treatment can be provided.

If the disease is diagnosed at the last stage or if there is a complicated type of cancer, the patient may die during the treatment.

Treatment

All cancer hospitals in Nepal provide primary treatment for breast cancer. But serious treatment is only available in some hospitals.

Earlier, in case of breast cancer, surgery was done by cutting off the breast, but now, in hospitals including Nepal Cancer Hospital, treatment is done by preserving the breast as much as possible. Which is called brace conserved surgery in medical language. 40 to 50 percent of patients are operated on with breast preservation. Apart from that, breast cancer should also be treated. Sentinel biopsy is done by giving a small amount of medicine to remove the cyst. It is checked whether it has spread to other parts of the body.

But if there is more than one girkha in the breast, then the breast should be cut off and thrown away. Similarly, in case of inflammatory breast cancer (a rare and complicated cancer), even if the disease is complicated and the skin has been eaten away, the breast must be removed. In this way, even if the breast is cut out, tissue can be brought from other parts of the body and placed in the cut place.

After treatment, patients can return to normal life

Cancer is not the end of life, it is the beginning of a new life. Many women who have recovered from cancer are living normal lives.

Five to 10 percent of breast cancer patients have a chance of recurrence after treatment. Therefore, you should not be confident that the treatment has been done. After the treatment of cancer, breast examination should be done every 3 months for two years and every 6 months after the next two years. From this, it can be seen whether there is a possibility of the disease reoccurring.

How much does the treatment cost?

Breast cancer screening does not cost much. The government pays for the treatment. If cancer target (targeted) therapy has to be done, the treatment costs will increase.

This increases the cost of using proteins that control how cancer cells grow, divide, and spread, and when the cured cancer comes back.

"Delayed treatment kills patients in Nepal more than cancer"

 "Delayed treatment kills patients in Nepal more than cancer"

Cancer has become a rapidly growing health problem. It causes loss of people as well as wealth. Cancer can be completely cured if detected early. But in the case of Nepal, due to the practice of going to the hospital late, the number of deaths in a short period of time is increasing due to the delay in identification and treatment.

This experience is no less than a trauma for the victim and his family. Therefore, if you can pay attention to the root of the problem, you can avoid this disease. Experts are suggesting important changes in lifestyle to avoid the risk of cancer.

The most important part of lifestyle is physical exercise. Cancer specialist Dr. Vivek Acharya says. Some chemicals produced during exercise prevent or reduce the risk of cancer in the body. Therefore, all age groups should do regular exercise, Dr. Acharya suggests.

According to a study published in JAMA Oncology, just two minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity every day, such as running, climbing stairs, doing housework and playing with children, can reduce the risk of cancer by 32 percent.

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Cancer specialist Dr. Arun Shahi also says that cancer can be avoided if daily exercise is included in the daily routine. He says that not only cancer but also other non-communicable diseases such as diabetes and high blood pressure can be avoided.

Dr. Arun Shahi

But he says that excessive exercise can prove fatal. Balanced exercise should be done. Do not do any exercise less. And don't do too much. "There are many cases of death due to the body not being able to cope with too much exercise," he says.

Obesity is the second leading cause of cancer worldwide. If there is more obesity, the fund can grow uncontrollably. Weight gain is associated with breast, colon, kidney, prostate, stomach, pancreatic and other cancers. Exercise burns body fat. And he says that it strengthens the muscles.

The link between exercise and cancer

Dr. According to Shahi, during exercise, toxins in our body are released through sweat. Blood circulation is fast and efficient. As a result, the body's metabolism is balanced.

A balanced metabolism means that the heart carries good blood to the cells. Oxygen purifies the bad blood by bringing it to the lungs. Exercise activates blood circulation. Exercising does not interfere with blood circulation. Which can't cause major diseases like cancer due to obesity. Reduces the amount of fat in the body and strengthens the muscles. If the muscles that pump the heart and lungs are strengthened, the body will be healthy when the oxygen and blood flow in the body is good.

If you pay attention to exercise, diet and weight, 90 to 95 percent of cancer can be avoided. Shahi says.

Diet is also a factor in cancer

The current eating style promotes cancer. Shahi says. Rice contains carbohydrates, pulses contain protein, vegetables contain fiber and fish contains fat. Daily pulses, rice and vegetables are digestible. But now, the habit of eating fish and meat on a daily basis increases body weight and stomach related diseases, he says.

Not only these foods, now everyone's choice is fast food. Fast food increases obesity and increases unnecessary calories. Now a small happy news is celebrated and most of the celebrations are meat dishes and alcohol consumption. This also causes the risk of cancer over time. Shahi says.

In a survey conducted by the Oncology Department of Patan Health Science Academy last year on 256 people aged 30 to 80 years old, people who eat stale rotten food, fast food, red meat, fatty food and a history of Hpylori infection on a daily basis showed a higher risk of stomach cancer.

Every year 25 thousand cancer patients are added in Nepal

About 25 thousand cancer patients are added every year in Nepal. Of which 70 percent die every year. The reason is the lack of quick identification, late arrival at the hospital and the lack of cancer treatment hospitals. Acharya says.

It is also more common to go to the pharmacy and take medicine without testing to cure symptoms of cancer such as stomach ache, ringworm and fever. "It is too late to guess the signs and take medicine and wait and see," he says.

Dr. According to Shahi, Nepal has the highest number of lung cancer patients. In the second place, cervical cancer patients have been seen, followed by breast cancer, stomach cancer, large intestine and rectal cancer patients.

Similarly, lung cancer is most common in men.

The situation is different in villages and cities

Cervical cancer is more common among women in rural and remote areas. Dr. Shahi says, 'Human papilloma virus infection, which is transmitted through unprotected sex, is more common there. Also, there is a tradition of not practicing condoms, not cleaning, getting married early and having children early, having many children. Unprotected sex is rare in the city. When condoms are practiced and cleanliness is taken care of, cervical cancer is comparatively less.

Fast food, less physical activity, excessive consumption of alcohol in the city has increased the problem of obesity. Due to obesity, the risk of breast cancer will increase. Shahi says.

If we look at men, lung cancer is more common in rural and urban areas due to the higher number of smokers in both proportions.

"Treatment is better than chronic disease if detected in time"

If it is detected in the early stages, cancer can be treated better than chronic diseases. Shahi says. If you have sugar and blood pressure, you will not be cured even if you take regular medicine. But if the cancer is detected in the early stages, the cancer will be eradicated completely, he says.

How to stay away from the risk of cancer?

Dr. Shahi has suggested to take care of the following to avoid the risk of cancer.

1. Avoid smoking and drinking alcohol, for example, which may cause cancer.

2. Do not eat rotten, processed food, junk food.

3. Exercise regularly to make you sweat.

4. If there is an unnecessary lump in the body, if the color has changed, then the test should be done immediately.

  5. Women may occasionally undergo a mammogram for breast cancer and a pap test for the cervix, and be vaccinated against cervical cancer.

6. In case of hereditary cancer, cancer screening should be done once a year.

7. Do not have unprotected sex.

Colorectal (large intestine) cancer

Colorectal (large intestine) cancer

introduction

Our digestive system digests food and absorbs nutrients from it. Esophagus (food pipe), stomach (stomach), small intestine and large intestine together make up the digestive system. The large intestine begins with the colon, which is about 5 feet long and ends at the rectum and anus.

Sleeping in underwear does not prevent cancer

``Sleeping with underwear causes cancer.'' There is a similar understanding in the public mind now. It has been said that it is harmful to women to wear bras and panties while sleeping at night. Some English-Hindi journals seem to write that wearing a bra causes breast cancer.

Five causes that cause liver cancer

The risk of liver cancer is increasing. And, one of the main reasons for this is food. In other words, a poor diet has increased the risk of liver cancer today. However, poor nutrition alone does not increase the risk. There are other causes of liver cancer.

The liver is the largest internal organ in our body. In adults, its length is 15 cm (about 6 inches). It is also the heaviest part of the body, weighing from one and a half kilos to one and a half kilos. It occurs on the right side of our abdomen.

Does it work

It does more than 500 things in the body. Its main function is to purify the blood coming from the digestive tract and circulate it throughout the body. The liver also converts blood into energy. This is why the medicine we take is also transmitted to the body. However, we do not pay much attention to how to protect such an important liver.

How does liver cancer occur?

1. Drinking too much alcohol can lead to a disease called liver cirrhosis, which can turn into cancer.

2. Hepatitis B and C can cause the liver to weaken quickly, which can lead to cancer.

3. A person undergoing dialysis is more likely to get liver cancer due to an infection.

4. Diabetes can lead to a disease called non-alcoholic fatty liver, which can lead to cancer.

5 Obesity causes fat to build up in the liver. It also increases the risk of cancer.

How to know

Frequent pain in the upper right part of the abdomen is a symptom of liver cancer.

- Loss of appetite, sudden weight loss can also be a symptom of liver cancer.

- Water starts to freeze in the stomach due to liver cancer.

- Yellowness increases in the body due to liver cancer.

- Fever comes regularly. It does not heal even after months of treatment.

What is leukemia?

Leukemia is an early stage of a type of blood cancer. It can be easily treated. But, for that, the disease must have been known at an early stage. If not treated in time, it can be dangerous and even fatal.

How to know

How do you know if your child has leukemia? Because its symptoms are normal, which we do not take seriously. However, from the following things, it can be known that the child is afraid of this disease.

- Repeatedly having the same type of infection

- Very high fever

- Weakening of the child's immune system

-Feeling tired and weak all the time

- Having anemia

- There is a problem of bleeding from nails and gums

- Experiencing pain in the joints

-Swelling different parts of the body

-There are knots in different parts of the body

- Having problems with the liver

- Frequent headaches. Or migraine

- Paralysis means having a stroke

- To be confused about something again and again. That is to be mentally stressed

-Vomiting

-Increased skin itching problem

- Having a problem of not feeling hungry

- It takes a long time for any wound to heal

Leukemia spreads rapidly

Early symptoms of leukemia include the flu and other serious illnesses. However, when leukemia spreads rapidly, all the above-mentioned problems start appearing at once. If these problems are ignored, leukemia can spread to other parts of the body. This is why the body begins to swell abnormally. But if the symptoms of leukemia are identified and treated at the right time, there is no risk of blood cancer.

Leukemia is a dangerous disease

Leukemia cells directly affect the blood. Of course, the symptoms of leukemia can be easily detected now. If one ignores it, and leukemia is not treated in time, his life will be only four years at most. This age also depends on the immune system and the type of leukemia.

Drinks that cancer patients should eat

We all understand cancer as a major disease. But with early detection and treatment, cancer can be completely cured. The disease causes the cancer cells in the affected area to grow uncontrollably, spread to other tissues, and the cancer cells that are growing uncontrollably die due to lack of oxygen in the blood.

Eventually, uncontrolled cell growth can lead to cancer deaths. The growth of cancer cells needs to be curbed to control or prevent cancer. This restraint is only possible when the environment outside the cell is completely natural.

The main reason for the uncontrolled growth of cancer cells is the disruption of the mechanism for controlling cell division by the accumulation of foreign substances in the extracellular environment. When foreign matter accumulates in the extracellular environment, these substances stimulate the dormant cell's carcinogenic gene to cause uncontrolled division. This uncontrolled growth is cancer and to get rid of it, the toxins present in the environment outside the cell must be purified. This is possible by consuming some naturally occurring fruit and vegetable drinks. Therefore, cancer patients should consume the following fruit juices.

1) Wheat germ juice:

Wheat germ is rich in chlorophyll. Chlorophyll is an antioxidant and antimutagenic compound in itself. The fact that chlorophyll intake increases red blood cells has also become public. As blood cells grow, they help kill cancer cells by delivering more oxygen to the cancerous tissue. Wheat germ also contains anti-cancer selenium and lytryl. Wheat germ contains 13 types of vitamins, 20 amino acids, and antioxidants. All of these elements are cancer-resistant.

2) Black Grape Juice:

Grapefruit contains a phytochemical called laminin which helps in removing carcinogens. Grape seed has been used mainly in the treatment of colon cancer. Grapes also contain an element called monoterpenes. Monitoring also plays a key role in removing carcinogens from the body.

3) Carrot juice:

Carrots are also a fruit rich in cancer-resistant phytochemicals. The beta carotene present in carrots plays a major role in the prevention, control, and treatment of skin cancer. Carrots also help heal wounds after cancer tissue damage.

4) Beetroot juice:

Packed with adequate amounts of antioxidants and vitamins, beets are a good source of carotenoids. The carotenoids present in beets play an important role in preventing all types of cancer. Carotenoids are also used to treat leukemia.

5) Tomato juice

Tomato is a treasure trove of vitamin C. In addition to vitamins, spinach contains many minerals and salts, such as sodium, phosphorus, calcium, potassium, magnesium, and sulfur. Tomato juice is mainly fed for protest cancer. An ingredient called glutathione present in goulash protects cells from oxidative stress as well as strengthens the immune system.

6) Broccoli juice

Broccoli contains an element called indole-3 carbinol. Indole 3 carbinol plays a key role in the prevention, control, and treatment of breast cancer, cervical cancer, and ovarian cancer. Indole-3 cardinal is understood to be an ingredient that strengthens the estrogen hormone resistance and competition system.

7) Lettuce juice

Rich in sulfur, chlorine, silicon, and vitamin B complex, lettuce juice is useful for lung cancer.

8) Noni juice

Noni juice has the potential to cure first stage cancer. Noni juice destroys cancer cells and helps build white blood cells that eat cancer cells.

Risk of cancer due to poor lifestyle

As long as we live, many processes related to life continue in our bodies. One of these actions is to become cells. In this process, the old and dead cells of the body are destroyed by themselves but new cells are formed in their place. This process continues in our bodies.

However, in the case of cancer, red blood cells, and white blood cells in the body begin to grow unnecessarily. These cancer cells slowly spread throughout the body and interfere with the functioning of healthy cells. These diseased cells are called cancers.

Our bodies, like computers, have many types of coding, which are passed on to our bodies by our parents through genes. Cigarettes, tobacco, drugs, and the wrong diet change the genetic code of our cells and this is what causes cancer in our body. Therefore, our lifestyle is responsible for getting cancer or not.

According to doctors, poor diet and lifestyle are the main causes of cancer. Inactive people, people who smoke, and people who smoke are at risk of cancer.

The risk of any type of cancer is high in people who smoke and smoke. Therefore, to avoid serious diseases like cancer, the use of tobacco should be stopped immediately.

Smoking can cause lung cancer, kidney cancer, bladder cancer, and cervical cancer. Tobacco and gutkha can cause cancer of the mouth and digestive glands. Cigarettes are found to be the biggest cause of cancer in 90 percent of cases.

Cigarettes enter the body when smoking bindi or cigarettes. These elements convert healthy cells into diseased cells and these same cells turn into cancer. There is also danger in not smoking cigarettes or bindi but constantly in contact with second-hand smoke.

Alcohol is dangerous for the body and it also increases the risk of cancer. Prolonged consumption of alcohol increases the risk of lung cancer, breast cancer, and anal cancer.

Uncontrolled weight gain can also lead to cancer and other serious illnesses. To control weight, you need to work hard every day.

It is said that if you work in one place all day, you will have to exercise for half an hour in the morning or evening. It is also important for the health of the body that the calories we eat should be used. Otherwise body fat starts to accumulate and obesity starts to increase. Obesity increases the risk of bladder cancer, breast cancer, cervical cancer, colon cancer, etc.

A nutritious diet is needed to protect the body from disease, to get the energy it needs for fitness and to work all day. A nutritious diet means fruits, vegetables, milk, eggs, and dried fruits.

It is necessary to pay attention to the quality of oil, spices, and rations used at home. When buying fruits, make sure that no chemicals are used to cook them. Consumption of adulterated and chemical milk and cheese, sweets, and dishes made from it can also be harmful to the body. Let's use nuts and pulses as much as possible in food.

Junk foods are also high in calories and use many harmful ingredients to enhance the taste. Therefore, the body should take only the required amount of nutritious food

The sun's rays are good for the body, but only to a limited extent. Weight loss will be followed by exposure to the sun and harmful ultraviolet rays, which are harmful to the body. Prolonged exposure to these rays increases the risk of skin cancer.

Sunscreen protects against the effects of these harmful rays to some extent. But, apart from this, it is better to cover your whole body when you go out in the sun. Wear sunglasses and darker clothing to protect your eyes from these harmful rays.