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Showing posts from January, 2025

Cervical Cancer Awareness Month: Protect Yourself and Your Loved Ones

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  Cervical cancer is one of the leading cancers among women in India, but the good news is that it is highly preventable and treatable when detected early. Here’s what you need to know to stay safe and informed. The Facts: Incidence and Mortality in India Cervical cancer ranks as the second most common cancer among Indian women. Every year, over 1.23 lakh women in India are diagnosed with cervical cancer, and approximately 77,000 women lose their lives to this disease. Many cases are diagnosed at an advanced stage, making awareness and early detection crucial. What Causes Cervical Cancer? The primary cause is persistent infection with human papillomavirus (HPV) , a common virus that spreads through skin-to-skin contact, including sexual contact. Vaccination: Your First Line of Defense HPV vaccines are safe, effective, and recommended for girls between 9-14 years (can be given up to 26 years). These...

How Many Cycles of Chemotherapy Are Needed for Lung Cancer Treatment?

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  Lung cancer treatment often involves a combination of therapies, including surgery, radiation, immunotherapy, and chemotherapy. Among these, chemotherapy is a well-known and widely used treatment. For those recently diagnosed or supporting a loved one, the number of chemotherapy cycles needed can feel like a critical question. Let’s explore this in simple terms. What Is Chemotherapy? Chemotherapy is a type of cancer treatment that uses drugs to destroy cancer cells. Usually these medications are given through your blood vessels in the arm via peripheral lines. These drugs circulate through the bloodstream, targeting fast-growing cells, which include cancer cells. However, since they also affect other fast-growing healthy cells, such as those in the hair, mouth, and stomach lining, chemotherapy can have side effects like hair loss, nausea, and fatigue. The treatment is usually given in cycles. A cycle involves a treatment phase followed by a rest period, allowing the ...