There are many misunderstandings regarding chemotherapy.

There are many misunderstandings regarding chemotherapy.

It is understandable to be hesitant & anxious about the beginning of chemotherapy treatment. To ensure you are fully informed about the risks and benefits of any therapy, it is crucial that you discuss any particular concerns you may have with your medical oncologist.

Check out some of the most widespread misconceptions about chemotherapy to get a sense of the topics you might want to go into further depth with your physician about.

    Myth: Chemotherapy causes significant side effects.

     Fact: Chemotherapy, is a cocktail of numerous medicines and it was associated with intense nausea and vomiting, and that reputation was well deserved. But, as with so many cancer treatments, advances and research have been made to improve the effectiveness of cancer drugs and reduce their side effects.

   Myth: I’m going to be constantly sick from chemotherapy.

    Fact: Chemotherapy can sometimes cause nausea – making you feel or be sick. It depends on the type of chemotherapy drug you’ve been prescribed. With advancements and research – most of these side-effects are easily managed and even stopped.

    A common misconception is that chemotherapy is only used in situations where there are no viable alternatives.

     In reality, chemotherapy can be an effective treatment at different stages of cancer for a wide range of patients.

     Myth: Chemotherapy will cause you to lose all your hair.

     Fact: While hair loss is a potential side effect of chemotherapy, not all chemotherapy drugs cause hair loss. Some only cause hair loss, while others do not cause hair loss. There are some products that can help reduce your risk of hair loss from chemotherapy. If you experience hair loss from chemotherapy, it is usually only temporary.

     Myth: If I get chemo, I’ll need to spend all my time in the hospital getting infusions.

     Fact: The duration of your chemotherapy session will depend on the type of chemotherapy you’re receiving and the type of treatment you’re getting. Some chemotherapy is done in an outpatient setting and some is done in an inpatient setting.

     Myth: All Chemotherapy is the same.

     Fact: Chemotherapy agents come in a wide variety, some of which can continue to be effective after other treatments have failed.

Chemotherapy is still a valuable treatment option for most cancers. It is known to enable cure many types of cancers including blood cancer. Immunotherapy and targeted therapy are ground-breaking approaches, but chemotherapy shouldn’t be overlooked. It has effectively eliminated cancer in some cases. Early detection, timely intervention, and collaboration between healthcare teams and patients are key.

 

As we progress into the future, oncology is witnessing remarkable breakthroughs driven by cutting-edge technologies and innovative approaches. Five key advancements are at the forefront: Artificial Intelligence (A.I.), Genomic Medicine, Next-Generation Cancer Organoids, Nanoparticles, and Pressurized Intraperitoneal Aerosol Chemotherapy (PIPAC).

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Understanding Mouth Cancer: Symptoms, Causes, and Early Warning Signs

Cancer Vaccines : Symptoms, Causes, and Early Warning Signs Cancer vaccines represent a promising f Mouth cancer, also known as oral cancer, is a serious but treatable condition—especially when diagnosed early. At Healius Cancer & Hematology Clinics, we believe that awareness is the first step toward prevention and early intervention. In this blog, we break down the most important aspects of mouth cancer: its symptoms, causes, and early warning signs.  What Is Mouth Cancer? Mouth cancer refers to cancer that develops in any part of the oral cavity, including the lips, tongue, cheeks, gums, roof of the mouth (palate), floor of the mouth, and throat. It usually begins in the squamous cells lining the mouth and can spread quickly if left untreated.  Early Symptoms and Warning Signs Detecting mouth cancer early dramatically increases the chances of successful treatment. Be alert to the following warning signs: A persistent sore or ulcer that doesn’t heal within 2–3 weeks Red or white patches inside the mouth Unexplained bleeding in the mouth Lump or thickening in the cheek or neck Difficulty in swallowing, speaking, or moving the jaw Numbness or pain in the mouth or lips Persistent sore throat or a feeling of something stuck in the throat Sudden weight loss or voice changes If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s crucial to consult a cancer specialist without delay.  What Causes Mouth Cancer? Several risk factors are associated with the development of mouth cancer: Tobacco use (smoking or chewing) – the leading cause Excessive alcohol consumption HPV infection (Human Papillomavirus) Poor oral hygiene and chronic irritation Exposure to the sun (for lip cancer) Diet low in fruits and vegetables Genetic predisposition At Healius Cancer & Hematology Clinics Bangalore, we emphasize both lifestyle modification and regular screenings to lower risk and catch potential problems early.  Why Early Detection Matters When detected in the early stages, oral cancer can often be treated successfully with minimally invasive procedures. Unfortunately, many cases are diagnosed too late due to a lack of awareness. Healius Cancer & Hematology Clinics offer advanced head & neck cancer screenings, including oral cancer detection services led by experienced oncologists. Our comprehensive care ensures you get the right diagnosis, timely treatment, and compassionate support throughout your journey.   How We Can Help  Expert Team of Oncologists & Hematologists  Advanced Diagnostic Tools & Biopsy Services  Customized Treatment Plans: Surgery, Radiation, Chemotherapy & Immunotherapy  Supportive Care for Nutrition, Pain Management, and Emotional Wellbeing  Early Screening & Preventive Counselling   Book a Consultation Whether you’re experiencing symptoms or want to schedule a routine screening, Healius Cancer & Hematology Clinics are here for you. Your health is in your hands—don’t wait. Book your appointment today at www.healiuscancerclinic.com or call us for immediate assistance +91 9900613143 Final Thoughts Mouth cancer doesn’t have to be a silent threat. With awareness, timely diagnosis, and expert care from Healius, it is possible to overcome it. Stay informed, stay vigilant—and spread the word. rontier in medical science, designed to either prevent cancer from developing or treat existing cancers by boosting the body’s immune response against cancer cells. Cancer vaccines offer a potential solution to the problems facing the field of oncology in the coming decade. These therapies benefit from economies of scale, simple administration, and may be more effective in earlier disease settings than later. Traditional vaccines aim to prevent or ameliorate infectious diseases through priming immune responses to exogenous antigens associated with given pathogens before a natural infection occurs. Similarly, cancer vaccines seek to induce an anti-tumor immunity using an appropriate delivery vector to prime responses to cancer antigens presented on the surface of tumour cells. Types of Cancer Vaccines Preventive (Prophylactic) Vaccines These are used to prevent cancer caused by viruses. HPV Vaccine: Protects against the human papillomavirus, which is linked to cervical, anal, throat, and other cancers. Hepatitis B Vaccine: Reduces the risk of liver cancer caused by Hepatitis B infection. Therapeutic Vaccines These are given to cancer patients to help the immune system recognize and destroy cancer cells. Research is ongoing for cancers like melanoma, prostate, and lung cancer. Therapeutic cancer vaccines can stop tumour from growing or spreading, destroys cancer cells still in the body after surgery and radiation therapy and also prevents relapse. Provenge (Sipuleucel-T): Approved for advanced prostate cancer. IMA901: Investigated for kidney cancer. Bacillus Calmette-Guerin (BCG): Approved for the treatment of early-stage cancer Nadofaragene firadonevec (Adstiladrin®): Approved for treatment of early-stage bladder cancers that have progressed despite BCG therapy.  GVAX: A group of experimental vaccines for pancreatic and other cancers. Talimogene laherparepvec (T-VEC): An oncolytic virus-based vaccine approved for melanoma. Role in Cancer Prevention Early Intervention: Vaccines like HPV are most effective when administered before exposure to the virus, typically in adolescence. Reduced Burden: Mass vaccination programs can significantly reduce the incidence of certain cancers, particularly in women. Cost-effective: Long-term savings in healthcare costs by preventing cancers before they develop. Government of India’s Initiatives The Government of India is actively promoting cancer prevention through vaccination and awareness: Introduction of HPV Vaccine in National Immunization Programme In 2024, India included the indigenously developed HPV vaccine ‘CERVAVAC’ in the Universal Immunization Programme. This aims to reduce the incidence of cervical cancer, the second most common cancer among Indian women. This vaccine is advisable for girls who are above 9 yrs and women. Public Awareness Campaigns Nationwide campaigns promote awareness about the importance of early vaccination and routine screening. Collaboration with NGOs and digital platforms to reach rural and underserved communities. Screening and Early Detection Under Ayushman Bharat, health and wellness centre’s provide free screening for common cancers (oral, breast, and cervical). Integration of vaccine awareness in school health programs. Conclusion Cancer vaccines, especially the HPV and Hepatitis B vaccines, offer a significant opportunity to prevent cancers before they occur. With proactive steps like launching affordable vaccines and integrating them into public health schemes, India is paving the way for a cancer-free future. Book an Appointment

Cancer Vaccines: A Breakthrough in Prevention

Cancer Vaccines: A Breakthrough in Prevention Cancer vaccines represent a promising frontier in medical science, designed to either prevent cancer from developing or treat existing cancers by boosting the body’s immune response against cancer cells. Cancer vaccines offer a potential solution to the problems facing the field of oncology in the coming decade. These therapies benefit from economies of scale, simple administration, and may be more effective in earlier disease settings than later. Traditional vaccines aim to prevent or ameliorate infectious diseases through priming immune responses to exogenous antigens associated with given pathogens before a natural infection occurs. Similarly, cancer vaccines seek to induce an anti-tumor immunity using an appropriate delivery vector to prime responses to cancer antigens presented on the surface of tumour cells. Types of Cancer Vaccines Preventive (Prophylactic) Vaccines These are used to prevent cancer caused by viruses. HPV Vaccine: Protects against the human papillomavirus, which is linked to cervical, anal, throat, and other cancers. Hepatitis B Vaccine: Reduces the risk of liver cancer caused by Hepatitis B infection. Therapeutic Vaccines These are given to cancer patients to help the immune system recognize and destroy cancer cells. Research is ongoing for cancers like melanoma, prostate, and lung cancer. Therapeutic cancer vaccines can stop tumour from growing or spreading, destroys cancer cells still in the body after surgery and radiation therapy and also prevents relapse. Provenge (Sipuleucel-T): Approved for advanced prostate cancer. IMA901: Investigated for kidney cancer. Bacillus Calmette-Guerin (BCG): Approved for the treatment of early-stage cancer Nadofaragene firadonevec (Adstiladrin®): Approved for treatment of early-stage bladder cancers that have progressed despite BCG therapy.  GVAX: A group of experimental vaccines for pancreatic and other cancers. Talimogene laherparepvec (T-VEC): An oncolytic virus-based vaccine approved for melanoma. Role in Cancer Prevention Early Intervention: Vaccines like HPV are most effective when administered before exposure to the virus, typically in adolescence. Reduced Burden: Mass vaccination programs can significantly reduce the incidence of certain cancers, particularly in women. Cost-effective: Long-term savings in healthcare costs by preventing cancers before they develop. Government of India’s Initiatives The Government of India is actively promoting cancer prevention through vaccination and awareness: Introduction of HPV Vaccine in National Immunization Programme In 2024, India included the indigenously developed HPV vaccine ‘CERVAVAC’ in the Universal Immunization Programme. This aims to reduce the incidence of cervical cancer, the second most common cancer among Indian women. This vaccine is advisable for girls who are above 9 yrs and women. Public Awareness Campaigns Nationwide campaigns promote awareness about the importance of early vaccination and routine screening. Collaboration with NGOs and digital platforms to reach rural and underserved communities. Screening and Early Detection Under Ayushman Bharat, health and wellness centre’s provide free screening for common cancers (oral, breast, and cervical). Integration of vaccine awareness in school health programs. Conclusion Cancer vaccines, especially the HPV and Hepatitis B vaccines, offer a significant opportunity to prevent cancers before they occur. With proactive steps like launching affordable vaccines and integrating them into public health schemes, India is paving the way for a cancer-free future. Book an Appointment

Haemophilia

#Haemophilia: Women and Girls Bleed Too #LightUpRed Haemophilia is often thought of as a “man’s disease,” but women and girls can have it too. Though less commonly diagnosed, females with haemophilia can experience significant bleeding issues that impact their daily lives. Understanding Haemophilia in Women Haemophilia is a genetic disorder where the blood doesn’t clot properly due to a deficiency in clotting factors. It’s linked to the X chromosome, meaning males (who have one X) are more likely to have severe symptoms. However, females (who have two X chromosomes) can also inherit the mutation. Traditionally, women were labelled as “carriers,” but many actually have mild, moderate, or even severe haemophilia. Symptoms in Women and Girls Women with haemophilia or low clotting factor levels may experience: Heavy and prolonged menstrual periods (menorrhagia) Frequent nosebleeds and easy bruising Excessive bleeding after childbirth, surgery, or dental work Joint and muscle bleeds, similar to male patients These symptoms are often overlooked or misdiagnosed, leading to delayed treatment. Challenges in Diagnosis and Care Many doctors still hesitate to diagnose women with haemophilia, instead labelling them as carriers. This medical bias means women often struggle for years before getting proper care. Additionally, female-specific issues—like menstrual bleeding—are sometimes dismissed as normal, even when they indicate an underlying bleeding disorder. Treatment and Management Women with haemophilia can benefit from the same treatments as men, including: Clotting factor replacement therapy Antifibrinolytic drugs (to reduce bleeding) Hormonal treatments to manage menstrual bleeding Preventive care to protect joints from damage Raising awareness is crucial for ensuring timely diagnosis and treatment for women and girls with haemophilia. No one should suffer due to outdated misconceptions. Breaking the Stigma The idea that “only men bleed” has been debunked—women and girls with haemophilia deserve recognition, care, and support. Advocacy groups, medical professionals, and patients are working together to push for better diagnosis, treatment, and awareness. It’s time to change the narrative: Women bleed too, and they deserve the care they need. Book an Appointment

Breaking New Ground

Breaking New Ground: Latest Advancements in Head & Neck Cancer Treatment Head and neck cancers affect thousands of individuals globally, but thanks to innovative research and clinical advancements, patients now have access to more effective, personalized, and less invasive treatment options. At Healius Cancer & Hematology Clinics, we are proud to be at the forefront of these changes, offering our patients access to the best head & neck cancer treatment in Bangalore, with a strong emphasis on quality care and advanced therapeutic techniques. 1. Neoadjuvant Immunotherapy: A Game Changer Traditionally, surgery was considered a primary treatment option for many head and neck cancers. However, neoadjuvant immunotherapy—administered before surgery—is reshaping this approach. This treatment stimulates the body’s immune system to attack cancer cells before any surgical intervention. Combinations like anti-PD1 therapy with CD40 agonist antibodies have shown remarkable results, improving immune response and potentially reducing the need for aggressive surgery. 2. Combination Immunotherapy: Strength in Unity Recent trials reveal that dual immunotherapy regimens offer better outcomes compared to monotherapy. By combining different immunotherapeutic agents, doctors are seeing higher response rates, longer remission periods, and improved patient resilience. This development is particularly promising for patients looking for head & neck cancer treatment without surgery. 3. Precision-Driven Targeted Therapies In a landmark move, the FDA has granted breakthrough therapy designation to the combination of petosemtamab and pembrolizumab. This duo is proving highly effective in treating recurrent or metastatic head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC), especially in patients with specific biomarker expressions. At Healius, our personalized approach ensures that patients receive treatments tailored to their unique cancer profile. 4. Advanced Imaging: Better Vision, Better Outcomes Innovative CT scan techniques and imaging methods now enable oncologists to visualize tumors with greater accuracy. These technologies help in better diagnosis, staging, and surgical planning—ensuring that treatment strategies are more precise and minimally invasive. 5. Promising Clinical Trials We stay connected with emerging global clinical trials. Studies combining drugs like avelumab, cetuximab, and palbociclib are showing potential in controlling tumor growth while minimizing side effects. These trials point toward a future where non-surgical treatment options for head and neck cancer could become the norm for many patients. Why Choose Healius? At Healius Cancer & Hematology Clinics, we’re committed to providing affordable, world-class cancer care. Led by renowned oncologist Dr. Mangesh Kamath, we specialize in personalized treatment plans that incorporate the latest medical advances. Whether you’re looking for the best head & neck cancer treatment or exploring head & neck cancer treatment without surgery, our team is here to guide you every step of the way. Early detection, timely intervention, and expert care save lives. If you or your loved one is navigating a head or neck cancer diagnosis, reach out to us today. 📍 Healius Cancer & Hematology Clinics – Your Partner in Healing.   Book an Appointment

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