cancer

Cancer is when some cells in our body start to grow uncontrollably. Normally, our cells grow, divide, and eventually die when they get old. But cancer cells don’t stop growing.

They keep dividing, creating more abnormal cells, and can form a lump, called a tumour. Some cancers, like blood cancer, don’t form lumps but still spread through the body.

What is the pathology of Cancer?

Cancer happens because of damage to the DNA in our cells. DNA is like an instruction manual that tells cells what to do. When the DNA is damaged, cells may stop following instructions, growing and dividing when they shouldn’t. Over time, these abnormal cells can grow and spread to other parts of the body.

What are the types of cancer ?

• Carcinomas: Start in the skin or tissues that cover organs (like breast, lung, or skin cancer).
• Sarcomas: Begin in bones, muscles, or connective tissues.
• Leukemias: Cancer of blood-forming tissues (like bone marrow).
• Lymphomas and Myelomas: Affect the immune system, especially in lymph nodes or bone marrow.
• Brain and Spinal Cord Cancers: Affect the brain or spinal cord.

Possible Causative factors for Cancer

• Genetic Mutations: Changes in our genes can increase cancer risk.
• Lifestyle Factors: Smoking, poor diet, alcohol, lack of exercise.
• Environmental Exposure: Pollution, radiation, chemicals.
• Infections: Certain viruses (like HPV for cervical cancer) or bacteria.
• Aging: The risk increases as we get older.

Signs and Symptoms

• Lump or Swelling: Can be felt in areas like breast or neck.
• Unexpected Weight Loss: Losing weight without trying.
• Fatigue: Feeling very tired all the time.
• Pain: Ongoing pain in bones or other body parts.
• Skin Changes: New or changing moles, or yellowing skin.
• Bleeding or Discharge: Unexplained bleeding, like in stools or urine.

Complications of Cancer

• Spread (Metastasis): Cancer can spread to other organs.
• Organ Failure: If cancer affects vital organs.
• Infections: Lowered immunity can lead to infections.
• Blood Clots: Cancer can increase blood clotting risks.

How is cancer diagnosed?

1. Physical Examination

Purpose: The doctor checks for any lumps, skin changes, or other abnormalities in the body that might indicate cancer.

2. Laboratory Tests

• Blood Tests: Certain cancers release substances into the blood, called tumour markers (e.g., PSA for prostate cancer, CA-125 for ovarian cancer).
• Urine Tests: Some cancers can be detected through substances in urine.
• Other Body Fluids: Analysing other fluids, such as spinal fluid, can help in some cases.

3. Imaging Tests

• X-ray: Uses radiation to see inside the body, often used for lung and bone cancers. Ultrasound: Uses sound waves to create images of internal organs and tissues.
• CT (Computed Tomography) Scan: Takes detailed cross-sectional images of the body; useful for finding tumors.
• MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging): Uses strong magnets and radio waves to produce detailed images of soft tissues.
• PET (Positron Emission Tomography) Scan: Uses a small amount of radioactive material to detect cancer cells’ activity.
• Mammography: Specialized X-ray for detecting breast cancer.

4. Biopsy

Purpose: The most definitive test to confirm cancer. A small sample of tissue is removed and examined under a microscope to look for cancer cells.

• Needle Biopsy: Uses a needle to remove tissue or fluid (common for breast or prostate cancer).
• Surgical Biopsy: A small incision is made to remove part or all of a tumour.
• Endoscopic Biopsy: An endoscope (a thin, flexible tube with a light and camera) is used to take tissue samples from internal organs.

5. Endoscopy

Purpose: Allows doctors to view and take samples from internal organs, such as the digestive or respiratory tract.

Examples:

• Colonoscopy: Examines the colon.
• Bronchoscopy: Examines the lungs.

6. Molecular and Genetic Tests

Purpose: Identify specific genetic mutations, proteins, or molecular markers that are linked to certain cancers. This can also help guide targeted treatments.

7. Cytology Tests

• Colonoscopy: Examines the colon.
• Bronchoscopy: Examines the lungs.

8. Bone Marrow Aspiration and Biopsy

Purpose: Used to diagnose blood cancers like leukemia or lymphoma by taking a sample from the bone marrow.

9. Genomic Tests

Purpose: Analyses the cancer cells’ DNA for specific mutations, especially for determining targeted therapies in some cancers.

**These tests are typically used together to confirm a cancer diagnosis and to understand the cancer's type, stage, and location to decide on the best treatment plan.

Modern science treatment of Cancers mainly comprises of :

• Surgery: Removing the tumour or cancerous tissue.
• Radiation Therapy: Using high-energy rays to kill cancer cells.
• Chemotherapy: Medicines that kill or stop cancer cells from growing.
• Immunotherapy: Boosting the immune system to fight cancer.
• Hormone Therapy: Blocking hormones that fuel certain cancers.
• Targeted Therapy: Drugs that target specific changes in cancer cells.

According to Ayurveda, cancer results from a severe imbalance of the three doshas: Vata (air and space), Pitta (fire and water), and Kapha (earth and water). These doshas govern various physiological and psychological functions in the body. Cancer is typically seen as an imbalance where:

• Vata causes the uncontrolled growth and spread of cells.
• Pitta can lead to inflammation and tissue damage.
• Kapha can contribute to the formation of tumours or excessive tissue growth.

Ayurvedic Treatment Methodology for Cancer

Ayurvedic treatment focuses on a holistic approach, aiming to restore balance in the body, enhance immunity, remove toxins, and support overall health.

1. Panchakarma (Detoxification Therapies)

Purpose: Removes toxins (Ama) from the body, purifies the tissues, and restores doshic balance.

• Vamana (therapeutic vomiting) and Virechana (therapeutic purging): Clear out excess Kapha and Pitta.
• Basti (medicated enema): Used to balance Vata and detoxify the colon.
• Raktamokshana (bloodletting): Helps purify the blood, especially for Pitta-related conditions.

Benefits: Helps remove deep-seated toxins, improve digestion, and enhance immunity.

2. Rasayana (Rejuvenation Therapy)

Purpose: Rejuvenates tissues, improves immunity, and restores Ojas.

Common Rasayanas:

• Chyawanprash: A herbal jam that boosts immunity and energy.
• Amalaki (Indian Gooseberry): Contains high vitamin C, promotes detoxification, and enhances immunity.

Benefits: Helps strengthen the body’s natural defences and resilience.

Yoga and Meditation: Helps control stress, improve mental strength, and promote healing.

Pranayama (Breathing Exercises): Balances Vata, calms the mind, and enhances energy.

Ayurvedic Goal in Cancer Treatment

Ayurveda aims not only to address cancer itself but also to improve overall quality of life and balance in the body. It helps manage symptoms, support the body during conventional treatments like chemotherapy, and reduce side effects. Ayurveda emphasizes prevention, lifestyle changes, and natural therapies to keep the body in harmony and prevent disease recurrence.

Ayurvedic cancer treatment should always be conducted under the guidance of a trained Ayurvedic practitioner and ideally, in coordination with conventional oncology care.

Herbs that are beneficial in the treatment of Cancer :

Amalaki (Indian Gooseberry - Emblica officinalis)

Benefits: Amalaki is high in vitamin C, has antioxidant properties, and supports immunity. It helps reduce inflammation and protects cells from damage.

Use: Often taken as Chyawanprash (an Ayurvedic herbal jam) or as powder, tablets, or juice.

Turmeric (Curcuma longa)

It helps in balancing pitta (the dosha related to heat and acidity) and is known for its digestive and immune-boosting properties.

Basil (Tulsi - Ocimum sanctum)

Benefits: Tulsi has antioxidant, anti-cancer, and adaptogenic effects, helping to reduce stress and protect against cell damage.

Use: Tulsi tea or capsules are used to improve immunity, reduce stress, and prevent cellular mutations.

Kanchanar (Bauhinia variegata)

Benefits: Traditionally used in Ayurvedic formulas for tumors, especially in Kapha-related conditions. It is believed to help shrink growths.

Use: Often used in combination with Guggulu in a preparation known as Kanchanar Guggulu to balance Kapha and support lymphatic health.

Saffron (Crocus sativus) / Kumkum / Kesar

Benefits: Saffron contains compounds like crocin, which have shown anti-cancer effects by inducing apoptosis (cell death) in cancer cells.

Usage: Used in small amounts in food or as a supplement to support cellular health.

Triphala (Combination of Amla, Haritaki, and Bibhitaki)

Benefits: Triphala is a powerful detoxifier, supports digestion, and improves elimination. It also has antioxidant effects.

Use: Taken as a powder or tablet, it helps remove toxins from the digestive tract and supports immune health.

Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera)

Benefits: Known as a powerful adaptogen, Ashwagandha helps the body resist stress and supports the immune system. It has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-tumor properties.

Usage: Often used in powder or capsule form to help reduce stress, improve energy levels, and inhibit tumor growth.