Oncologist

Conditions Treated

• •Breast Cancer — Most common cancer in Indian women. Highly treatable when caught early through self-examination and mammography.
• •Lung Cancer — Leading cause of cancer death in India, strongly linked to smoking and pollution.
• •Colorectal Cancer — Cancer of the colon or rectum, increasingly common in urban India.
• •Oral Cancer — Cancer of the mouth and throat, India has among the highest rates globally due to tobacco and betel nut use.
• •Leukaemia (Blood Cancer) — Cancer of blood-forming cells, affecting white blood cells. Includes acute and chronic types.

Health Tips

• •Quit tobacco in ALL forms — smoking, chewing, gutka, paan
• •Get screened — early detection saves lives
• •Maintain healthy weight through diet and exercise
• •Limit alcohol consumption
• •Eat more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
• •Protect yourself from infections that cause cancer

How to Prepare for Your Visit

• •Bring all biopsy reports, imaging (CT/MRI/PET scan), and blood reports
• •Write down your questions — cancer consultations involve a lot of information
• •Bring a family member or friend — two sets of ears are better than one
• •Bring a notebook or ask if you can record the conversation
• •Take notes or ask your companion to take notes
• •Don't hesitate to ask the doctor to explain in simpler language
• •Ask about treatment timeline — when it starts, how long it takes, how often
• •Discuss financial aspects — some treatments are expensive, and assistance programs exist
• •Seek a second opinion if you're unsure about the treatment plan
• •Join a support group — connecting with other patients provides emotional strength
• •Follow pre-treatment instructions carefully (blood tests, dental clearance, etc.)
• •Focus on nutrition — a well-nourished body handles treatment better

Questions to Ask Your Doctor

• •What type and stage is my cancer?
• •What are my treatment options?
• •What are the side effects of treatment?
• •Is this cancer curable?
• •Should I get a second opinion?
• •Are there clinical trials available for my type of cancer?

When to See a Specialist

An Oncologist specializes in cancer diagnosis and treatment. You're typically referred after a biopsy confirms cancer or when cancer is suspected.

• •Biopsy-confirmed cancer — treatment planning
• •Unexplained lump or mass that is growing
• •Unexplained weight loss of more than 5% in a month
• •Persistent unexplained fatigue or night sweats
• •Blood in stool, urine, or cough without clear cause
• •Family history of cancer — screening advice
• •Abnormal blood reports suggesting blood cancer

Cancer is NOT a death sentence — early detection and modern treatment cure many cancers. Don't delay evaluation out of fear.