Breast Cancer: Everything You Need to Know, from Diagnosis to Prevention

Possible Side Effects of Chemotherapy: How to Manage Them and When to CONSULT Your Doctor Chemotherapy is one of the most effective weapons against cancer, but it can affect healthy cells too, causing a range of side effects. These side effects vary by individual, drug type, and dosage. Understanding how to manage them — and when to alert your doctor — is crucial for safe and comfortable treatment. Here are few insights from the team of Healius Cancer and Hematology clinics. Common Side Effects of Chemotherapy and Their Management Fatigue What Happens: Ongoing tiredness, not relieved by rest. Management: Moderate exercise like walking, rest often, conserve energy, and include light activity. Stay hydrated with home-made non-sugary drinks When to CONSULT the Doctor: If fatigue becomes severe or interferes with daily life. Nausea and Vomiting What Happens: Stomach discomfort, vomiting episodes. Management: Take anti-nausea medications, eat bland meals, stay hydrated. When to CONSULT the Doctor: If vomiting is persistent or prevents fluid/food intake. Diarrhea What Happens: Frequent, loose stools due to intestinal lining damage. Management: Eat a low-fiber, bland diet (rice, banana, toast). Stay hydrated with electrolyte drinks. When to CONSULT the Doctor: If diarrhea lasts more than 24 hours, it leads to weakness or dizziness or includes blood. Constipation What Happens: Difficulty passing stools, often due to medications or inactivity. Management: Increase fluids, eat high-fiber foods, and walk regularly. Use stool softeners if recommended. When to CONSULT the Doctor: If no bowel movement for more than 3 days or if pain/bloating is severe. Hair Loss (Alopecia) What Happens: Loss of hair on scalp, eyebrows, and body. Management: Use gentle hair care. Consider scarves, caps, or wigs. When to CONSULT the Doctor: If scalp irritation, rashes, or sores appear. Infections and Low Immunity What Happens: Low white blood cells increase infection risk. Management: Wash hands often, avoid sick contacts, and cook thoroughly. When to CONSULT the Doctor: If you develop a fever ≥100.4°F (38°C), chills, or sore throat. Mouth Sores (Mucositis) What Happens: Painful ulcers in the mouth and throat. Management: Use soft toothbrushes, avoid acidic/spicy foods, and rinse with baking soda solution. When to CONSULT the Doctor: If sores prevent eating or cause bleeding. Taste and Smell Changes What Happens: Metallic taste, reduced sense of taste or smell. Management: Use plastic utensils, add flavor-enhancers (lemon, herbs), and try cold foods. When to CONSULT the Doctor: If it leads to poor nutrition or major appetite loss. Appetite and Weight Changes What Happens: Reduced appetite, unintended weight loss or gain. Management: Eat small, frequent meals; consider nutritional supplements. When to CONSULT the Doctor: If weight changes are drastic or you are unable to eat. Neuropathy What Happens: Numbness, tingling, or pain in hands/feet. Management: Avoid extreme temperatures, wear shoes, and monitor sensations. When to CONSULT the Doctor: If it affects walking, gripping, or worsens suddenly. Bleeding and Bruising What Happens: Due to low platelet counts. Management: Use soft toothbrushes, avoid sharp objects or injury risks. When to CONSULT the Doctor: If you notice unexplained bruising, nosebleeds, or blood in urine/stool. Organ Function Changes What Happens: Some chemo drugs can affect heart, liver, or kidney function. Management: Regular blood tests and organ monitoring as prescribed. When to CONSULT the Doctor: If you experience swelling, shortness of breath, jaundice (yellow skin/eyes), or unusual urine color. Depression and Anxiety What Happens: Emotional distress, sadness, or constant worry. Management: Talk to a counselor, join support groups, and discuss treatment for mental health. When to CONSULT the Doctor: If you feel hopeless, overwhelmed, or have thoughts of self-harm. Cognitive Changes (‘Chemo Brain’) What Happens: Memory lapses, foggy thinking, difficulty concentrating. Management: Use reminders, organize your day, get proper rest. When to CONSULT the Doctor: If symptoms worsen or interfere with safety. When to Seek Immediate Medical Help CONSULT your doctor or go to the emergency room if you experience: Fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher Severe vomiting or diarrhea Chest pain or shortness of breath Sudden confusion or extreme fatigue Bleeding that won’t stop Swelling, jaundice, or reduced urine output Suicidal thoughts or severe emotional distress Final Note from Healius Cancer and Haematology Clinics Chemotherapy is a journey — physically and emotionally. Most of the times if the Medical Oncologist escalates the dose gradually as tolerated by the patient, the side effects can either be completely prevented or managed in the early phase itself. Most side effects can be managed with early intervention, lifestyle adjustments, and support from our oncology team. Never hesitate to report symptoms and obtain symptomatic relief immediately without procrastinating.  Quick action can make your treatment safer and avoid grave complications.  A stitch in time saves nine.  For more information, appointments, or referrals, visit https://healiuscancerhematology.com/ Book an Appointment

Celebrating National Cancer Survivors Month: A New Era of Hope and Healing June marks National Cancer Survivors Month—a time to honor the strength, resilience, and journeys of millions who have faced cancer and emerged stronger. Thanks to groundbreaking medical advances, early detection, and holistic care, survival rates have significantly improved, offering renewed hope to patients and their families. The Rise in Survival Rates: A Testament to Progress Over the past five decades, cancer survival rates have seen remarkable improvements. In the UK, for instance, 50% of individuals diagnosed with cancer now survive for at least 10 years, a significant increase from just 24% in the 1970s . Similarly, in the United States, the five-year relative survival rate for all cancers combined improved from 58% during the mid-1970s to 85% during 2013 through 2019 in children .cancerresearchuk.org+2theguardian.com+2thesun.co.uk+2usafacts.org+2acsjournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com+2cancercenter.com+2 These advancements are attributed to factors such as early diagnosis, personalized treatments, and a deeper understanding of cancer biology. Innovations like immunotherapy, targeted therapies, and CAR-T cell treatments have revolutionized cancer care, leading to better outcomes and improved quality of life for survivors. Healius: Pioneering Comprehensive Cancer Care Healius stands at the forefront of this transformative era, offering comprehensive cancer care that encompasses advanced diagnostics, personalized treatment plans, and supportive services. By integrating cutting-edge technology with compassionate care, Healius ensures that patients receive timely and effective interventions tailored to their unique needs. Moreover, Healius emphasizes the importance of early detection through regular screenings and awareness programs, recognizing that early-stage diagnosis significantly enhances treatment success rates. Their multidisciplinary approach brings together oncologists, radiologists, pathologists, and support staff to provide holistic care that addresses both the physical and emotional aspects of cancer treatment.  Empowering Survivors Through Lifestyle Interventions Beyond medical treatments, lifestyle modifications play a crucial role in cancer survivorship. Recent studies highlight the benefits of structured exercise programs in reducing cancer recurrence and improving survival rates. For example, a decade-long trial involving stage three colon cancer patients demonstrated that a personalized exercise regimen led to a 28% reduction in cancer recurrence risk after 5 years and 37% after 8 years . Healius integrates such evidence-based lifestyle interventions into their care plans, offering patients resources and guidance on nutrition, physical activity, and mental well-being. By addressing the whole person, Healius Cancer & Hematology Clinics empowers survivors to lead healthier, more fulfilling lives post-treatment.  Looking Ahead: A Future Filled with Hope As we observe National Cancer Survivors Month, it’s essential to acknowledge the strides made in cancer care and the unwavering spirit of survivors. Organizations like us exemplify the commitment to advancing cancer treatment and survivorship, ensuring that patients not only survive but thrive. With ongoing research, technological innovations, and a patient-centered approach, the future holds promise for even higher survival rates and improved quality of life for cancer survivors worldwide. Book an Appointment

Young and Strong: Overcoming Breast Cancer in Your Teens Breast cancer is often thought to affect older women, but the truth is, it can occur at any age—including during the teenage years. Though rare, breast cancer in adolescents and young adults is a growing concern. According to studies, it tends to be more aggressive in younger patients and is often diagnosed at a later stage, which makes early detection even more critical. Causes and Risk Factors The exact causes of breast cancer in teens and young adults aren’t fully understood. However, certain risk factors have been identified. Genetic mutations, particularly in genes like BRCA1 and BRCA2, play a major role. A family history of breast cancer—especially if diagnosed at a young age—can also increase the risk. Exposure to radiation, either from previous medical treatments or environmental sources, may further elevate the risk. Symptoms and Early Detection Symptoms of breast cancer in young individuals are similar to those in older adults and may include: A lump or thickening in the breast Changes in breast size or shape Nipple discharge or changes Skin changes such as redness or dimpling Awareness is key. Young people should be familiar with how their breasts normally look and feel, and report any unusual changes to a doctor. While breast self-exams aren’t a substitute for medical screenings, they are a good way to stay in tune with your body. At Healius Cancer & Hematology Clinics, Dr. Mangesh Kamath, a leading medical oncologist, emphasizes the importance of early evaluation and genetic counseling for young patients with a family history of cancer. “Early detection in young patients not only improves outcomes but also opens up the possibility of less invasive treatment options,” he says. Treatment and Survival Treatment for breast cancer in younger patients often includes a combination of surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and hormone therapy. However, younger individuals may have unique needs that require personalized care plans. Fertility preservation, long-term side effects, and psychological support are crucial considerations. Thanks to advanced technologies and personalized treatment approaches at Healius Cancer & Hematology Clinics, survival rates continue to improve. Dr. Mangesh Kamath and his multidisciplinary team provide compassionate, comprehensive care tailored to each patient’s journey. Living with Breast Cancer A breast cancer diagnosis in your teens or early twenties can feel overwhelming, but it is not insurmountable. Support systems, both medical and emotional, make a huge difference. It’s important to lean on family, friends, and cancer support groups. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle—through exercise, proper nutrition, and stress management—can also support recovery and long-term well-being. At Healius, patients receive more than just medical treatment—they find a supportive community committed to walking with them every step of the way.   Final Word While breast cancer in teens is uncommon, it’s a serious health concern that requires awareness and proactive care. By understanding the symptoms, recognizing the risks, and seeking expert guidance, young people can take control of their breast health. If you have any concerns or questions, don’t hesitate to consult Dr. Mangesh Kamath or the specialists at Healius Cancer & Hematology Clinics. Early action can make all the difference. For Appointment Contact : +91 9900613143 Book an Appointment

Ovarian Cancer: Navigating the Challenges of Late Diagnosis, Biomarker Limitations, and Tumor Heterogeneity Ovarian cancer remains one of the most lethal gynaecologic malignancies, with a five-year survival rate of only ~50% for advanced-stage cases. Despite advances in treatment, significant challenges persist late diagnosis, inefficient biomarkers, and extreme tumour heterogeneity, each contributing to poor outcomes. Among these, late diagnosis is arguably the most formidable challenge, as it drastically limits treatment efficacy and survival. However, emerging research is paving the way for improved detection, personalized therapies, and novel treatment strategies.     Late Diagnosis: The Biggest Hurdle in Ovarian Cancer Management   Why Late Diagnosis is So Devastating ~70% of ovarian cancer cases are diagnosed at Stage III or IV, when the disease has already metastasized.   No reliable screening test exists (unlike mammograms for breast cancer or Pap smears for cervical cancer).   Symptoms (bloating, pelvic pain, urinary urgency) are non-specific, often leading to misdiagnosis (e.g., IBS, urinary infections).     Consequences of Late Detection Limited surgical options: Optimal cytoreduction (tumour debulking) is harder in advanced disease.   Higher chemoresistance risk: Late-stage tumours often develop resistance to platinum-based therapies.   Poor survival rates: Early-stage (I/II) survival exceeds 90%, but late-stage survival drops to ~30%.     Efforts to Improve Early Detection Liquid biopsies (circulating tumor DNA, exosome profiling) are under investigation.   Multi-cancer early detection (MCED) tests are being explored, though none are yet FDA-approved for ovarian cancer.   Awareness campaigns  aim to educate on symptoms. Biomarker Limitations: The Challenge of Precision Medicine   Current Biomarkers and Their Shortcomings CA-125: The most widely used biomarker, but non-specific (elevated in endometriosis, pregnancy, other cancers).   HE4: Better specificity but still not definitive for early detection.   HRD Testing: Helps identify PARP inhibitor responders, but 22% of high-grade serous ovarian cancers (HGSC) show spatial heterogeneity in HRD scores, leading to inconsistent results.   Folate Receptor Alpha (FRα): Used for mirvetuximab soravtansine eligibility, but only ~35-40% of patients have sufficient FRα expression.     Emerging Biomarkers Multi-omics profiling (genomics, proteomics, metabolomics) is identifying new signatures (e.g., FXYD6, linked to ferroptosis and immunotherapy resistance).   Tumor microenvironment (TME) biomarkers (e.g., CD8+ T-cell infiltration) may predict immunotherapy response.     Tumor Heterogeneity: A Major Barrier to Effective Treatment   Types of Heterogeneity in Ovarian Cancer   Spatial heterogeneity: Different tumour regions (e.g., ovary vs. omentum) show varying biomarker expression (e.g., PR, Ki67).   Temporal heterogeneity: Recurrent tumours often evolve, acquiring new mutations (e.g., **BRCA reversion mutations** causing PARPi resistance).   Molecular subtypes:   High-grade serous (HGSC): Most common (~70%), highly aggressive, TP53 mutations.   Low-grade serous (LGSC): Rare (~10%), younger patients, often KRAS/BRAF-mutated.   Clear cell & endometrioid: Differ in chemosensitivity and molecular drivers.     Impact on Treatment  Chemotherapy resistance: Clonal evolution leads to subpopulations that evade treatment.   Immunotherapy limitations: “Cold” tumours (low T-cell infiltration) respond poorly to checkpoint inhibitors.     Current and Emerging Treatments to Overcome These Challenges    Targeted Therapies PARP inhibitors (olaparib, niraparib): Effective in BRCA-mutated and HRD-positive tumours, but resistance remains a hurdle.   Antibody-drug conjugates (mirvetuximab soravtansine): For FRα-positive platinum-resistant cases.   MEK inhibitors (trametinib, binimetinib): Show promise in low-grade serous ovarian cancer (LGSC).     Immunotherapy & Novel Approaches Combination therapies: PARPi + immunotherapy (e.g., pembrolizumab) are being tested to convert cold tumours to hot.   Ferroptosis inducers: Targeting FXYD6 to trigger iron-dependent cell death.   Adoptive cell therapy (CAR-T, TILs): Early-phase trials show potential in recurrent disease.     Preventive Strategies Risk-reducing surgery: Salpingectomy (fallopian tube removal) and Oophorectomy (removal of ovaries) for BRCA carriers may prevent HGSOC.   Genetic testing expansion: Only ~50% of ovarian cancer patients receive germline testing, missing hereditary risks (e.g., Lynch syndrome).     Which Challenge is the Greatest?   While biomarker limitations and tumour heterogeneity complicate treatment, late diagnosis remains the most critical challenge — without early detection, even the best therapies are less effective. However, advances in multi-omics profiling, liquid biopsies, and novel targeted agents are offering hope. The future of ovarian cancer management lies in:   Better early detection tools (e.g., AI-driven imaging, blood-based assays).   Comprehensive biomarker testing at diagnosis (HRD, FRα, BRCA).   Personalized combination therapies to overcome resistance.     With sustained research and advocacy (e.g., OCRA’s $6M funding in 2025), we may finally shift ovarian cancer from a silent killer to a manageable disease.   Book an Appointment