Common Cancers

India accounts for roughly one-third of the world's oral cancers, driven overwhelmingly by tobacco chewing (gutka, khaini, zarda), betel quid with tobacco, and smoking. The combination of tobacco and areca nut is particularly harmful. Any persistent mouth ulcer, white or red patch, or lump that doesn't heal in 2-3 weeks needs a dental or ENT evaluation — early oral cancer is often curable.

Breast cancer is now the most common cancer in Indian women, and rates are rising — especially in cities. Indian women are often diagnosed 10-15 years younger than Western women, frequently in their 40s. Breast awareness (knowing what's normal for your body), clinical exams, and mammograms from 40-45 (earlier for family history) are the practical steps. Any new lump, nipple discharge, or skin change deserves a prompt check.

Largely, yes. Almost all cervical cancer is caused by persistent HPV infection, and HPV vaccination in adolescence prevents most of it. On top of vaccination, regular screening (Pap smear or HPV test) catches precancerous changes years before they become cancer. India has one of the highest cervical cancer burdens globally — most of these deaths are preventable with a vaccine and a screening test.

A cough that doesn't go away or changes, coughing up blood, chest pain, unexplained weight loss, breathlessness, wheezing, hoarseness, or recurring chest infections. In India, both smoking and air pollution contribute. Anyone with a long smoking history, especially over 50, should discuss low-dose CT screening with their doctor. Symptoms often appear late, which is why screening for high-risk groups matters.

Blood in stool (bright red or dark), a change in bowel habits lasting more than a few weeks, unexplained weight loss, iron-deficiency anaemia found on a routine blood test, and persistent abdominal cramps. Many people brush these off as 'piles' or 'gastric problem' — which delays diagnosis. If you're over 45 and haven't had a colonoscopy or FIT test, ask your doctor whether it's time.