Latest advances and outcomes from the treatment of acute leukemia today

Breast Cancer Awareness: A Comprehensive Guide to Diagnosis and Treatment Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers among women worldwide. Understanding its symptoms, risk factors, diagnosis, and treatment options is crucial for early detection and effective care. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore everything you need to know about breast cancer to educate you and your loved ones. Understanding Breast Cancer Breast cancer occurs when cells in the breast begin to grow uncontrollably. It can affect both men and women, although it is far more prevalent in women. There are several types of breast cancer, including: Ductal Carcinoma In Situ (DCIS): A non-invasive cancer where cells inside the ducts of the breast have changed but have not spread to surrounding tissue. Invasive Ductal Carcinoma (IDC): The most common type, where cancer cells invade surrounding breast tissue. Invasive Lobular Carcinoma (ILC): This type begins in the lobules and can spread to nearby tissues. Triple-Negative Breast Cancer: A subtype of IDC that does not have estrogen or progesterone receptors and does not produce excess HER2 protein, making it more aggressive and harder to treat. Metastatic Breast Cancer:  Occurs when breast cancer cells spread to other parts of the body. This can happen through the bloodstream or lymphatic system. Inflammatory Breast Cancer (IBC): A rare and aggressive form of breast cancer that blocks lymph vessels in the skin, causing the breast to appear swollen and red. Breast Cancer During Pregnancy: A rare condition that occurs when a woman develops breast cancer while pregnant. It can be challenging to diagnose and treat due to the hormonal changes and physical symptoms associated with pregnancy. Lobular Carcinoma In Situ :  A non-invasive type of breast cancer. This means the cancer cells have not spread beyond the lobules of the breast. Lobules are milk-producing glands in the breast. Symptoms of Breast Cancer Awareness of breast cancer symptoms is vital for early detection. Common symptoms include: A lump or mass in the breast or underarm area Changes in breast shape or size Skin changes, such as dimpling or redness Unexplained swelling or lump in the breast Discharge from the nipple, which may be blood-stained If you notice any of these symptoms, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional. Risk Factors for Breast Cancer Several factors may increase the risk of developing breast cancer, including: Gender: Women are at a higher risk than men. Age: The risk increases with age, particularly after 55. Family History: Having close relatives with breast cancer can increase your risk. Genetic Mutations: Certain inherited gene mutations (such as BRCA1 and BRCA2) significantly increase risk. Lifestyle Factors: Alcohol consumption, obesity, and lack of physical activity can also contribute to risk. Diagnosis of Breast Cancer Early diagnosis is key to successful treatment. Methods used to diagnose breast cancer include: Clinical Breast Examination: A healthcare professional examines the breasts for lumps or abnormalities. Mammography: An X-ray of the breast that can detect tumors that cannot be felt. Ultrasound: Uses sound waves to create images of breast tissue and can help distinguish between solid masses and fluid-filled cysts. Biopsy: Involves removing a small sample of breast tissue for laboratory analysis to determine if cancer cells are present. Treatment Options for Breast Cancer Treatment for breast cancer depends on the type and stage of the disease, as well as the patient’s overall health and personal preferences. Common treatment options include: Surgery: Options include lumpectomy (removing the tumor and some surrounding tissue) or mastectomy (removing one or both breasts). Radiation Therapy: Uses high-energy waves to target and kill cancer cells, often used after surgery to eliminate remaining cancer cells. Chemotherapy: Uses drugs to destroy cancer cells and is often administered before or after surgery. Hormone Therapy: Used for cancers that are hormone receptor-positive, helping to block hormones that fuel cancer growth. Targeted Therapy: Focuses on specific characteristics of cancer cells, aiming to block their growth and spread. Preventive Measures While not all breast cancers can be prevented, certain lifestyle changes can help reduce risk: Regular Screenings: Schedule mammograms and clinical breast exams according to your healthcare provider’s recommendations. Healthy Lifestyle: Maintain a balanced diet, exercise regularly, and limit alcohol consumption. Genetic Testing: If there is a family history of breast cancer, consider discussing genetic testing options with your doctor. Conclusion Breast cancer awareness is crucial for early detection and effective treatment. Understanding the symptoms, risk factors, types, and available diagnostic and treatment options can educate individuals to take proactive steps in their health journey. At Healius Cancer & Hematology Clinics, recognized as the best breast cancer hospital in Bangalore, we are committed to providing comprehensive care and support for patients diagnosed with breast cancer. As a dedicated breast care clinic, we ensure that patients receive the highest quality of breast treatment. If you have concerns or need to schedule a screening, please contact us today.

Different Radiation Therapy Types: Applications, Therapies, and Treatments Cancer. It is a strong enemy that makes millions of people around the world afraid. The very mention of the word sends chills down our spines because it makes us feel scared, hurt, and powerless. Radiation treatment is a strong tool that brings some light into this dark world. As a strong way to kill cancer cells and help people who are suffering from this unending illness, radiation therapy is used in many cancer treatments.Radiotherapy has totally changed how cancer is treated because it can target tumours accurately, kill them, and keep side effects to a minimum. The goal of this blog is to make radiation treatments easier to understand by going over the different kinds of radiation therapy and the ways they are used to fight cancer. Different kinds of radiation Treatment are available for cancer treatment. EXTERNAL BEAM RADIATION THERAPY (EBRT). Most people who get radiation therapy do it through external radiation therapy, also known as external beam radiation therapy (EBRT). EBRT is a noninvasive treatment that is usually done over a few weeks in many fractions. With the help of a machine called a linear accelerator, high-energy radiation beams are pointed at the cancer from outside the body. The radiation beams are carefully shaped and directed so that they only hit the tumour and protect healthy tissues as little as possible. This type of treatment can be used to treat a wide range of cancers, including those in the lungs, breasts, prostate, and head and neck.Dr Ajay GV, a Consultant Healios in External beam radiation on LINAC, says that new techniques like IMRT and SBRT have made external radiation treatment more accurate and effective. With EBRT, treatment plans can be made just for each patient, and they get better results. BRACHYTHERAPY       Putting radioactive sources inside or near the tumour is what internal radiation treatment, also called brachytherapy, does. In this way, healthy cells nearby are exposed less and radiation can be delivered accurately. Brachytherapy can be done with either temporary or permanent devices, depending on the situation. This method sends a concentrated dose of radiation straight to the tumour, which makes it especially good for prostate, cervical, or breast cancer that is localised. It can be used by itself or with other treatments, like surgery or external beam radiation therapy, to make them work better and stop tumours from growing. Types of radiotherapy and how they are used. The different kinds of radiation therapy are: Radiation therapy Description Cancer Type Intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) To intentionally vary the radiation dose during an IMRT treatment, the treatment machine’s integrated shielding moves while the radiation beam is operational. The radiation dose is precisely sculpted to match the contour of the tumour using multiple beams coming from different directions. It’s the most often used radiation treatment for prostate cancer. – Head & Neck Cancers (including those of the larynx, pharynx, and oral cavity) – Cancer of the Prostate – Cancer of the Breast – Gynaecological malignancies, such as those of the vagina, endometrium, and cervical regions – Lung cancer (often in tumours near vital organs including the spinal cord) – Tumours of the central nervous system (CNS) Stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) and stereotactic radiotherapy (SRT) High radiation doses are delivered noninvasively with SRS and SRT, which don’t require anaesthesia or incisions. They reduce exposure of healthy brain tissue while maximising radiation dose to the intended region. While SRT is given over several treatments, SRS is usually given in a single therapy. Brain tumours (such as meningiomas and gliomas) Spine Tumours Lung Cancers in Their Early Stages Prostate Cancer – Liver Cancer Diseases of the Pancreas Brachytherapy, or internal radiation therapy With brachytherapy, specialised applicators direct the radioactive sources—which are contained in protective capsules—to the malignant region. Sometimes, during surgery, the radiation sources are inserted into an organ. Gynaecological cancers (such as cervical, endometrial, and vaginal cancer) – Prostate cancer Nasopharyngeal and oral cavity cancers are examples of head and neck cancers. Lung Cancer, Skin Cancer, Eye Cancer Malignancies of soft tissues Volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT) Like IMRT, volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT) varies the radiation dosage during treatment while the treatment equipment rotates, therefore providing a continuous radiation exposure. It minimises exposure to nearby organs while accurately forming the radiation dose to the tumour. Head and Neck Cancers (e.g., larynx, pharynx, oral cavity) Breast Cancer – Cancers of the gastrointestinal tract, including stomach, anal, and rectal cancers Lung cancer (often when it is close to the spinal cord or heart) Breast Cancer and Other Central Nervous System (CNS) Tumours Image-guided radiation therapy (IGRT) By use of X-ray pictures obtained immediately before, during, or after radiation therapy sessions, image-guided radiation therapy (IGRT) improves the accuracy and precision of treatment. – Cancers of the head and neck (e.g., oral cavity, throat, larynx) – Prostate cancer – Cancer of the lung – Breast cancer – Cancers of the digestive system (such as anal and rectal cancer) – Cancers related to the gynaecology (such as endometrial and cervical cancer) brain growths – Sarcomas (bone and soft tissue) – Genitourinary malignancies, such as testicular and bladder cancer lymphomas cancers in children

The Risks of Buying Medicines Online: How to Avoid Counterfeit Drugs? 1. Introduction Counterfeit medicines are a growing public health issue in India, especially with the rise of online pharmacies. These fake drugs, often sold online, are designed to resemble genuine products but may contain incorrect, harmful, or no active ingredients at all. With the convenience of buying medicines online, patients are increasingly vulnerable to counterfeit products, which compromises their health and the overall integrity of healthcare systems. The shift to online medicine purchases has made it more challenging for patients to differentiate between legitimate and fake medications. 2. Prevalence of Counterfeit Medicines in India India is one of the largest producers of generic drugs, but counterfeit medicines have infiltrated the market, especially through unregulated online pharmacies. Reports suggest that around 20% of medicines sold in India, including through online channels, could be fake or substandard. This is particularly worrying for life-saving drugs, antibiotics, and medications for chronic conditions like cancer. Online pharmacies, often operating without proper licenses, can sell substandard or falsified drugs to unsuspecting consumers. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), 10.5% of all drugs in low- and middle-income countries, including India, are substandard or counterfeit. 3. Impact of Counterfeit Medicines from Online Pharmacies The effects of consuming counterfeit drugs purchased online can be devastating. Patients, especially those undergoing critical treatments like cancer, may face prolonged illnesses, worsened conditions, or dangerous side effects due to the improper ingredients found in these counterfeit products. For serious diseases like cancer, taking fake drugs can lead to fatal outcomes. Beyond health risks, the growing presence of counterfeit medicines online erodes public trust in e-pharmacies, raises healthcare costs, and damages the pharmaceutical industry’s reputation. 4. How to Protect Yourself from Fake Online Medicines While the government has taken steps to regulate the sale of medicines online, patients must be cautious when buying medications through e-pharmacies. Here are steps to ensure you’re getting genuine medicines: Buy from verified online pharmacies: Only purchase medicines from licensed and regulated pharmacies. Look for licensing information. Verify the packaging: When receiving medicines, look closely at the packaging for signs of tampering, unusual logos, or misspelled brand names. Use authentication tools: Many genuine medicines now include QR codes or holograms on their packaging that can be scanned to verify authenticity. Avoid “too-good-to-be-true” offers: If the price of the medicine seems too low or the pharmacy is offering prescription drugs without a valid prescription, it’s likely a counterfeit. 5. Conclusion Counterfeit medicines sold through online pharmacies pose a significant threat to public health in India, especially for patients dealing with serious illnesses like cancer. The convenience of online medicine purchases can come at a cost if patients aren’t vigilant about where their medications are coming from. By using reputable online pharmacies and verifying their legitimacy, patients can better protect themselves from fake medicines. At Healius Cancer & Hematology Clinics, patient safety is our top priority. We understand the critical importance of genuine medicines in cancer treatment, which is why we ensure that all medications dispensed through our in-house pharmacy are thoroughly vetted and sourced from licensed and reliable suppliers. Our commitment to providing safe, authentic medicines allows our patients to focus on their recovery, knowing they are in safe hands. This dedication to safety is part of what makes us one of the Best Cancer Hospitals in Bangalore. Rest assured, your treatments at Healius are always safe and effective.

Shattering Chemo Myths: What You Need to Know When it comes to cancer treatment, chemotherapy often evokes fear and uncertainty. Many envision hair loss, severe sickness, and other daunting side effects. However, much of what is commonly believed about chemotherapy is rooted in misconceptions. Let’s explore the realities of this essential cancer treatment and clear up some myths. Myth 1: Chemotherapy Always Causes Complete Hair Loss A common fear is that chemotherapy will result in complete hair loss. While hair loss is a potential side effect, it doesn’t affect everyone. Chemotherapy targets rapidly dividing cells, including hair follicles, but the extent of hair loss varies. For many, hair loss is temporary, with regrowth occurring after treatment ends. Additionally, scalp cooling techniques can sometimes reduce or prevent hair loss. Myth 2: Chemotherapy Causes Constant Sickness While chemotherapy can cause side effects like nausea, fatigue, and mouth sores, these are not universal experiences. Thanks to advancements in oncology, side effects are more manageable than ever before. Anti-nausea medications, for instance, have proven highly effective. Fatigue can be managed through rest and personalized care strategies. Treatment plans are tailored to minimize side effects, ensuring that each patient’s experience is as comfortable as possible. Myth 3: Chemotherapy Is Solely for Curing Cancer Chemotherapy does more than just cure cancer. It can be used to shrink tumors before surgery, slow the progression of cancer, or alleviate symptoms to improve a patient’s quality of life. The specific goals of chemotherapy vary depending on the type and stage of cancer, and the overall health of the patient. Myth 4: Chemotherapy Is the Only Cancer Treatment Cancer treatment is often multifaceted, involving surgery, radiation, targeted therapies, and immunotherapy alongside chemotherapy. In some cases, early-stage cancers may be treated with targeted therapy, hormonal therapy, or immunotherapy, without the need for chemotherapy. The best cancer treatment plan is individualized, based on the patient’s diagnosis and overall health. Myth 5: There Are No Alternatives to Chemotherapy While chemotherapy is a key component in the battle against cancer, some patients also explore complementary therapies. It’s essential, however, to discuss any alternative treatments with your doctor to avoid potential interactions with chemotherapy. Complementary therapies should support, not replace, conventional cancer treatment. What You Should Know About Chemotherapy Tailored Treatment: Chemotherapy regimens are customized to the type and stage of cancer and the patient’s health. Managing Side Effects: Modern medicine offers various methods to manage and reduce side effects effectively. Communication Is Key: Open discussions with your doctor about any concerns or side effects are crucial for your treatment journey. Build a Support System: A strong support network, including family, friends, and healthcare professionals, is invaluable during treatment. Moving Forward with Confidence Chemotherapy is a powerful and often life-saving tool in cancer treatment. By understanding the facts and dispelling common myths, patients can approach their treatment with clarity and confidence. For expert guidance and the best oncology and hematology treatment, consult with Dr. Mangesh Kamath at Healius Cancer and Hematology Clinics. Being well-informed and actively participating in your treatment plan can make a significant difference in your journey toward recovery.