1. Breast Cancer

Causes:

The most prevalent cancer among Indian women, Breast cancer, has many risk factors, including family history, hormonal imbalances, late pregnancies, obesity and lifestyle choices such as alcohol consumption, which increase its risk.

Symptoms:

• A lump or thickening in the breast or underarm
• Changes in breast size or shape
• Dimpling or redness of the skin
• Nipple discharge or inversion

Prevention Tips:

• Perform regular self-examinations.
• Maintain a healthy weight and diet.
• Limit alcohol intake.
• Get regular mammograms, especially if you have a family history of breast cancer.

2. Lung Cancer

Causes:

In India, lung cancer primarily affects men, with smoking being its leading cause. Other risk factors for lung cancer may include second-hand smoke exposure, air pollution or occupational hazards like asbestos.

Symptoms:

• Persistent cough or chest pain
• Shortness of breath or wheezing
• Unexplained weight loss
• Blood in sputum

Prevention Tips:

• Avoid smoking and second-hand smoke exposure by staying indoors as much as possible – these should help.
• When working in potentially hazardous environments, use protective equipment.
• Air purifiers and masks are used to reduce air pollution exposure.

3. Cervical Cancer:

Causes:

Cervical cancer is one of the second most prevalent cancers among Indian women. Its main source is Human Papillomavirus (HPV), which spreads sexually. Poor hygiene practices and lack of screening contribute further to its spread, while lack of screening contribute to its spread as well.

Symptoms:

• Unusual vaginal bleeding or discharge
• Pain during intercourse
• Pelvic pain

Prevention Tips:

• Get the HPV vaccine early (recommended for girls aged 9–14).
• Practice safe sex and maintain good genital hygiene.
• Undergo regular Pap smears to detect precancerous changes.

4. Oral Cancer

Causes:

Stomach cancer, or gastric cancer, is prevalent in India due to dietary habits like high salt intake, consumption of smoked and pickled foods, and Helicobacter pylori infections. Smoking and a family history of the disease also contribute to the risk.

Symptoms:

• Persistent mouth sores or ulcers that do not heal
• White or red patches in the mouth
• Difficulty chewing or swallowing
• Unexplained lumps in the neck or jaw

Prevention Tips:

• Quit tobacco and avoid areca nut products.
• Limit alcohol consumption.
• Maintain good oral hygiene and get regular dental check-ups.

5. Stomach Cancer

Causes:

In India, stomach cancer or gastric cancer is increasingly becoming prevalent due to dietary habits such as high salt consumption and consumption of smoked and pickled food, as well as Helicobacter pylori infection. Smoking increases your risk, as does having a family history of the condition.

Symptoms:

• Persistent indigestion or bloating
• Nausea and vomiting
• Unexplained weight loss
• Blood in stool

Prevention Tips:

• Reduce salt and processed food intake.
• Include more fresh fruits and vegetables in your diet.
• Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.
• Treat H. pylori infections promptly.