Battling Cancer Early: Bengaluru's Call for Proactive Health

In Bengalurus dynamic urban scene where tech drives progress and daily routines keep everyone on the move early cancer detection is making a real difference for professionals and seniors Dr Mounika Reddy C MBBS MD Radiation Oncology DM Medical Oncology at Prakriya Hospitals notes positive steps forward more patients in their 40s and beyond are spotting breast ovarian and prostate cancers early through routine checksUrban India is witnessing more cancers like breast ovarian and prostate cancer in people who are still professionally active especially those above 40 as well as the elderly above 60 Sedentary desk jobs long commuting hours in Bengaluru and easy access to caloriedense foods contribute to obesity which is now recognised as a major cancer risk factorThe recent ICMRINDIAB national study a large survey of over one lakh adults reported that about 4337 of Indians are ldquometabolically obeserdquo despite having a normalappearing weight underscoring the hidden burden of lifestylelinked risk Such metabolic obesity drives diabetes heart disease and hormonal imbalance all of which can influence cancer risk and outcomes For men obesity and central fat are linked to higher levels of inflammatory markers and hormonal imbalance which can raise prostate cancer risk and worsen outcomes In this context Dr Reddyrsquos emphasis on ldquoyoungerrdquo adults over 40 and seniors over 60 reflects a real shift cancers once considered diseases of old age are now affecting middleaged officegoers who may not see themselves as high riskThis makes timely screening key Across India a large proportion of breast and prostate cancers are still detected in advanced stages Stage III or IV which significantly limits treatment options and survival chances One key reason is that early disease is often silent ovarian cancer may present only vague bloating or discomfort prostate cancer may cause no symptoms and even breast lumps can be painless leading people to delay consultation Around half of breast cancers and up to 808537 of prostate cancers in some Indian series are diagnosed late in contrast to much lower latestage rates in highincome countries Dr Reddyrsquos observation that patients ldquoroamrdquo between multiple providers for repeated opinions mirrors common behaviours in Bengaluru and selfmedication fragmented consultations and fear of a cancer label all contribute to precious time being lost Normalising the idea that seeking an early opinion is wise not alarming and that an annual checkup can ldquorule outrdquo problems rather than ldquoinviterdquo bad news Empowering families to recognise subtle warning signs and to trust qualified oncologists is equally importantEarly Action in Practice A RealLife ComparisonRajesh a 45yearold IT professional from Bengaluru At 42 he included a basic screening package in his annual checkup a PSA test caught his Stage I prostate issue early Treatment was straightforward and hes now fully back at work grateful for the quick catchOthers who delay however face tougher paths often reaching Stage III or IV as Dr Reddy sees regularly Early detection like Rajeshs lifts success rates above 9037 for these cancers while later stages limit optionshighlighting why starting simple pays offDr Reddy highlights that early detection does not always require expensive tests it starts with simple age and riskappropriate screening packages that can be integrated into routine health checks Basic blood tests like complete blood count liver and kidney function and tumour markers such as PSA for men and CA125 for women can alert doctors to possible prostate or ovarian issues For breast cancer bilateral mammograms from age 40 remain the global standard for detecting small clinically invisible tumours and are increasingly available in major hospitals and diagnostic centres in Indian metros Lowdose CT scans for longterm smokers can pick up lung nodules at a stage when they are still curable and diabetic checkups are vital because diabetes and metabolic syndrome often coexist with obesity and higher cancer risk These tests can be framed as a ldquoyearly safety netrdquo that fits into employer health plans and family health budgets encouraging corporates and individuals to prioritise preventive oncologyBengalurus urban professionals can make this a habit turning awareness into action for healthier years aheadDisclaimer MidDay holds no responsibility or liability for any direct indirect implied punitive special incidental or consequential damages resulting directly or indirectly from the use of this content It is advisable to seek guidance from an expert advisor or health professional as the information on the site is not a substitute for professional medical advice diagnosis or treatment The information provided should not be used for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease and individuals seeking personal medical advice should consult with a licensed physician The views and opinions expressed are those of the sponsorauthoragency and do not represent the stance or views of MidDay Any purchases made from the branded segment are at your own discretion and risk

Battling Cancer Early: Bengaluru's Call for Proactive Health

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Battling Cancer Early: Bengaluru's Call for Proactive Health

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