In India, one in every nine individual is likely to develop cancer in their lifetime. Cancer is a daunting diagnosis, but while some cancers are more common like Breast, Blood related cancer, Urogenital, Oral, Liver, and Lung, others fall into the category of "rare." These less common cancers often present unique challenges due to limited research, diagnostic difficulties, and a general lack of awareness. Understanding rare cancers and raising awareness about them is crucial for improving early detection, treatment, and ultimately, patient outcomes.
The rare cancers
While common cancers receive considerable attention, several rare cancers exist. These include cancers of the peritoneum (the lining of the abdominal cavity), mediastinal tumors (tumors in the space between the lungs), sarcomas (cancers of connective tissue like muscle), and certain rare subtypes within common cancers, such as neuroendocrine tumors of the lung or pancreas, gastrointestinal stromal tumors, and some skin cancers like melanoma.
Causes
The causes of rare cancers, like most cancers, stem from uncontrolled cell division due to DNA mutations. While a small percentage of cases (5-7%) are hereditary, the majority (92-95%) arise from environmental factors. These include exposure to carcinogens (like those found in tobacco and alcohol), radiation, and in some cases, prolonged exposure to ultraviolet radiation from the sun, which is a significant risk factor for skin cancers.
Symptoms
Symptoms of rare cancers vary greatly depending on the location and type of cancer. Often, in the early stages, these cancers may be asymptomatic. As the tumor grows, it can cause symptoms by compressing organs or tissues. For instance, a tumor in the small intestine may initially be silent but can eventually lead to vomiting if it obstructs the intestinal passage. Similarly, lung tumors may cause a persistent cough or bloody sputum. Surface cancers, like skin cancers, might manifest as a lump, ulcer, or changes in skin pigmentation, like a growing dark spot in the case of melanoma.
Preventions
Preventing rare cancers, where possible, involves adopting a healthy lifestyle. This includes avoiding tobacco and excessive alcohol consumption, protecting the skin from excessive sun exposure by using sunscreen, and managing stress. Maintaining a strong immune system is also vital, as it plays a role in identifying and destroying abnormal cells before they develop into cancer. A balanced work-life balance contributes to overall well-being and can be a crucial factor in cancer prevention.
Awareness
Raising awareness about rare cancers is essential, even more so than for common cancers due to the limited knowledge surrounding them.
Public health campaigns, educational materials, and online resources can play a significant role in disseminating information about rare cancer types, their symptoms, and the importance of early detection. It is important to emphasize that advancements in cancer treatment, including surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy, have made significant strides. Modern techniques like robotics, laparoscopy, 3D conformal radiation therapy, and immunotherapies offer more targeted and less harsh treatment options compared to the past. This message of hope and progress in cancer treatment is crucial in encouraging individuals to seek medical attention if they experience concerning symptoms. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment significantly improve the chances of successful outcomes for many rare cancers. It is necessary for people to consult with a specialist for accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment plans, rather than resorting to self-diagnosis or unproven remedies.
Dr. Manthan Merja (Patel), Senior Consultant - Surgical Oncology, Sterling Hospitals, Sindhu Bhavan
