The most common form of cancer in the country and across the world is skin cancer. There are several categories under which skin cancer is classified. Treatment and prognosis are based on the type of cancer and that is why it’s important to be aware of the most common forms of skin cancer. Statistics show that when detected in time, the crucial five-year survival rate for melanoma (one of the most aggressive forms) is nearly 99%. Facts of skin cancer The skin consists of several layers known as the epidermis, dermis, and subcutaneous layer of fat. These layers consist of different types of cells, such as basal cells, squamous cells, and melanocytes. Skin cancers are named after the cells that are affected by cancer. Most common types of skin cancer Basal Cell Carcinoma This is the most common, but least dangerous form of skin cancer, and nearly 4 million cases are diagnosed every year in the country. This form of cancer originates in the basal cells of the skin, in the bottom-most layer of the epidermis. Basal cells are those that rise through the layers of skin to replace the flaking squamous cells in the upper-most layer. It generally occurs in the region of the body that is most exposed to the sun, such as the head and neck.

Colon cancer or colorectal cancer is a condition that affects the large intestine. It usually starts as polyps and if detected early can be treated easily. This article presents information on the causes and symptoms of colon cancer. Overview Before understanding the causes and symptoms of colon cancer it is important to know that one might experience no symptoms in the early stages. The symptoms are such that they may appear related to some other problem, including digestive problems. It is important to immediately see a doctor if these symptoms are observed. Periodic screenings can be useful to detect this form of cancer early. Symptoms of colon cancer Some of the symptoms that a person having colon cancer would experience include: A sudden change in bowel movements like onset of constipation or diarrhea, which remains for a long time Feeling of cramps in the colorectal area Tenesmus, where there is a feeling that the bowel is not emptied resulting in having to go again to pass stools Bleeding from the anus Blood in the stool Change in the nature of stools (eg: stringy stools) Bloating in the abdomen with or without pain Abdominal discomfort like gas Tiredness and loss of appetite Weight loss that has no specific reason Pain in the pelvic region Anemia due to blood loss In case any of these symptoms are observed, most people would associate them with digestive problems.

Apart from skin cancer, prostate cancer is the most common form of cancer that occurs in men. Statistics report that prostate cancer will be diagnosed in more than 190,000 men in 2020. Most cases (around 65%) occur in men above age 65 and are usually detected in the local/regional stage, offering a good chance for treatment and recovery. Advanced screening and treatment techniques have reduced the number of prostate cancer deaths by half in the last decade. Early detection, recognizing the signs and symptoms of prostate cancer, and accurate diagnosis and intervention can save many lives and increase the chances of recovery and longevity. Warning signs and symptoms Pain Severe, acute pain during urination and/or ejaculation must be immediately investigated. This is not a very common sign, and the pain may sometimes be felt as a burning sensation. What makes this symptom important is that it may be mistaken for urinary tract infection in the early stages, and both patient and physician may omit routine screening for prostate cancer. High-risk patients with a family history of prostate cancer cannot afford to ignore this symptom. Urinary disturbances Watch out for the frequent urge to urinate, especially when it interrupts your sleep at night.

Research has found that a combination of risk factors can increase your chances of developing breast cancer. However, just because you are at risk does not guarantee that you will have breast cancer. Here are common risk factors for breast cancer that you should be aware of. Age   If you are older than 50 years, then your chances of developing breast cancer are higher compared to younger people. As you age, there’s a high risk of developing breast cancer. Personal history of breast cancer Having a history of breast cancer or having some types of non-cancerous breast conditions such as lobular carcinoma is one of the common risk factors for breast cancer. Family history of breast cancer If your first-degree relative such as your sister or mother who had breast cancer in the past, there is a high risk of breast cancer. If you have someone on your father’s or mother’s side who had breast cancer, then you have a higher risk. Genetic mutations Studies have shown that some genetic mutations that are inherited, such as the BRCA2 and BRCA1 genes can increase the risk of breast cancer. Gender Being a woman is one of the common risk factors for breast cancer.

Spinal muscular atrophy or SMA is a genetic condition that affects the muscles. It is amongst one of the most common rare diseases, affecting up to 25,000 children and adults. It generally affects children and babies. SMA is called an autosomal recessive disease because only when each parent carries the genetic mutation, then only the child has SMA. If someone in the family has SMA, then you might be at a higher risk of being an SMA carrier and passing it onto your child. SMA symptoms can vary depending on the type of SMA. The following are the early warning signs of spinal muscular atrophy according to type. Type 1 Also known as Werdnig-Hoffman disease, this type of SMA is severe. Your child will exhibit symptoms such as being unable to sit unless you help him. He might have trouble supporting his head. You might notice he is unable to swallow his food, which can lead to feeding issues. He might have floppy legs and arms. When your child has this type of SMA, the chances of him surviving past the age of two is quite low. Children die due to this because of respiratory failure. Type 2 This type of SMA is known as chronic infantile SMA, and it affects children between 6 months and 18 months old.