Types of Common Cancers That Target Women

Cancer is a deadly medical condition in which normal cells in the body start turning into cancerous cells. These cancerous cells multiply and spread throughout the body. Usually, our genes send instructions to the cells when they start and stop growing.

Normal cells in our body follow the instructions sent by our genes. However, cancerous cells ignore these signals and continue to grow and divide abnormally. Cancer is classified into various types, but healthcare professionals have classified it into three broad categories.

Solid Cancer: This is the most common type of cancer that generally occurs in the epithelial and other connective tissues. This type of cancer includes carcinoma, sarcoma, etc.

Blood Cancer: Another common type of cancer in women and men is blood cancer, which starts in the lymphatic system or the blood cells. The most common types of blood cancer are leukaemia, multiple myeloma and lymphoma.

Mixed Cancer: This is a type of cancer that involves two classifications or subtypes of cancer. Common examples of such types of cancer are adenosquamous carcinoma or carcinosarcoma.

Also Read: Most Common Cancers in India

Cancer can affect any part of the human body. However, some types of cancer are more common in women than in men. Here is a list of the most common cancers in women worldwide.

Breast Cancer

Most people who wonder about how common breast cancer is in women need to know it is the most prevalent type of cancer in women. It is a type of cancer that occurs in the cells of the breast. The early stage of this type of cancer does not have any symptoms. That is why regular screening is important for early diagnosis and treatment of this cancer.

Symptoms of Breast Cancer

• Lump in the armpit or breast.

• Discoloration of skin in the breast.

• Nipple retraction

• Changes in breast or nipple size.

• Discharge from the nipple.

Treatment of Breast Cancer

There are several treatment options available for breast cancer, such as surgery which involves mastectomy, lymph node resection, etc. Chemotherapy and radiotherapy are also treatment options for recurrent breast cancer.

Cervical Cancer

Another most common type of cancer in women is cervical cancer, which is the second most prevalent cancer. This is a type of cancer that occurs in the cervix, which is a tube that connects the uterus and vagina.

There are various types of cervical cancer in Women, such as adenosquamous carcinoma, adenocarcinoma, etc. Like breast cancer, this type of cancer does not have any visible symptoms in the early stage.

Symptoms of Cervical Cancer

• Abnormal vaginal bleeding

• Blood-tinged or smelly discharge.

• Spotting even after menopause

• Abdominal pain

• Painful urination

• Persistent fatigue

Treatment of Cervical Cancer

The treatment of cervical cancer involves surgery, which includes a hysterectomy, total pelvic exenteration, etc. Apart from surgical procedures, various other therapies are used to treat cervical cancer, such as targeted therapy, immunotherapy and more.

Also Read: Cervical Cancer Insurance

Ovarian Cancer

Ovarian cancer is another common cancer in women. It is also referred to as a silent killer because its symptoms are vague and nonspecific during the early stage. This is a type of cancer that occurs in the ovaries.

Women who have a strong family history of such cancer are more prone to it. Regular health check-ups and examinations can help in identifying ovarian cancer.

Symptoms of Ovarian Cancer

• Weight loss

• Swelling in belly

• Loss of appetite

• Changes in bowel habits

• Frequent urination

• Pelvic discomfort

Treatment of Ovarian Cancer

The treatment options for ovarian cancer are also many, such as surgical procedures which require removal of fallopian tubes, uterus or ovaries. Besides this, many people also have the option to go with other therapies such as chemotherapy, hormonal therapy and targeted therapy.

Also Read: Ovarian Cancer

Lung Cancer

Another common type of cancer in women is lung cancer. It is a type of cancer that occurs in the lungs when the cells present undergo mutations. Due to mutation, it starts to divide abnormally to form a mass. This type of cancer is also divided into various types, such as sarcomatoid carcinoma, adenocarcinoma and more.

Symptoms of Lung Cancer

• Chest pain

• Worsening of cough

• Shortness of breath

• Weight loss

• Fatigue

• Respiratory tract infections

Treatment of Lung Cancer

Surgery is one of the prevalent choices for treating lung cancer. Common types of surgeries involve pneumonectomy, lobectomy, wedge resection, etc. Other treatment options are also available for lung cancer, such as radiation therapy, immunotherapy, targeted therapy, etc. Apart from this, photodynamic and radiofrequency ablation therapy are also popular.

Colorectal Cancer

Colorectal cancer is a type of cancer that affects the colon or rectum and is common in both men and women. It typically begins as small, non-cancerous growths known as polyps, which can eventually develop into cancer over time. This type of cancer generally occurs in individuals with a diet high in red or processed meats and has a genetic condition.

Symptoms of Colorectal Cancer

• Changes in bowel habits

• Blood in the stool or rectal bleeding

• Weight loss

• Persistent abdominal discomfort or cramping

• Fatigue or weakness

Treatment of Colorectal Cancer

Surgery is usually the first treatment for colorectal cancer. Treatment plans include colectomy or rectal surgery. Besides surgery, patients can also go for chemotherapy, radiation therapy, etc. For some advanced cases, immunotherapy can be an option. Early detection and treatment greatly improve the outlook.

Skin Cancer

Skin cancer is another type of cancer in women that is prevalent in India. Women with fair skin have more chances of developing skin cancer than those with darker skin. This type of cancer occurs when there is abnormal growth of skin cells.

This type of cancer occurs due to direct exposure to sunlight. There are different types of skin cancer, which are basal cell carcinoma, malignant melanoma and squamous cell carcinoma.

Symptoms of Skin Cancer

• Changes in existing moles

• Unusual growth of lump on skin

• A wound that does not heal

• Moles with different colour

• Itching or pain around moles

Treatment of Skin Cancer

Surgery is one of the most common treatments for skin cancer, with options like excisional surgery, Mohs surgery and curettage and electrodesiccation being frequently used. In addition to surgery, other treatment options include radiation therapy, chemotherapy and immunotherapy.

The causes of different types of cancer in women depend on various factors and lifestyle choices. Some of the common causes of cancer in Women are:

Genetic Factor

One of the most common causes of cancer in women is genetic factors. Inherited mutations of specific genes like BRCA2, BRCA1, etc, can enhance the risk of ovarian and breast cancer in later stages of life.

Age Factor

Age is another common cause of cancer among women. As women age, the risk of developing specific types of cancer increases, especially breast, ovarian and endometrial cancers. The body's natural ageing process can lead to genetic mutations and a decline in immune system function, making it harder to fight cancerous cells.

Lifestyle Choices

Another common cause of cancer among women is poor lifestyle choices. Unhealthy eating habits, smoking, drinking, etc can enhance the risk of cancer. Furthermore, lack of physical activity also contributes to cancer risk, including breast, endometrial and colorectal cancer.

Hormonal Factor

Prolonged exposure to certain hormones, such as estrogen, is linked to an increased risk of cancers like breast, ovarian and endometrial cancer. Hormonal therapy, early menstruation and late menopause are factors that can influence hormone levels and increase risk.

Environmental Factor

Contact with dangerous substances, like radiation and toxins, raises cancer risks. Women in industries with hazardous materials face a bigger threat. Secondhand smoke exposure adds to this cancer issue. In these settings, staying alert is crucial because the risks are high.

Family History

A common cause of cancer in women is family history. If certain types of cancer run in families, the risk for women can rise, especially with a genetic link. Women with close relatives who have breast, ovarian, or colorectal cancer may face a higher risk. This can be due to inherited genetic mutations or similar environmental factors.

Cancer can be a dreadful disease that can take a physical and emotional toll on individuals and their families. This is why it is important to avoid the risk of cancer early in life by adopting healthy lifestyles. Below are some tips that can help avoid the risk of different types of cancer in women.

• One way to avoid the risk of cancer is to adopt healthy eating habits. Instead of relying on processed food and sugar, try to incorporate fresh fruit and vegetables into your diet.

• Smoking is a major risk factor for lung cancer and other types. Quitting smoking or never starting is one of the best ways to lower cancer risks.

• Another way to reduce the risk of various types of cancer in women is to remain at a healthy weight. If you are gaining weight, try to lose it by doing physical activity such as walking, running, etc.

• One of the main causes of skin cancer in women is direct exposure to the sun. This can be easily avoided by wearing sunscreen, covering your skin and more.

• If you drink alcohol, do it in moderation. Excessive drinking is linked to an increased risk of breast, liver and other cancers.

• Use protective gear at work and minimise exposure to secondhand smoke and other environmental toxins to avoid exposure to harmful chemicals, radiation and pollutants.

• Vaccines like the HPV vaccine can help prevent cervical cancer and the hepatitis B vaccine can reduce the risk of liver cancer.

• Early detection is key for cancer prevention. Regular screenings for breast, cervical and colorectal cancers can cause problems before they become cancer.

Understanding all about the different types of cancer in women is crucial to safeguard yourself and your family members from this deadly disease. Early diagnosis of cancer in women is crucial for the best treatment plan. With state-of-art technology available, cancer treatment can be done anywhere.

However, since cancer requires prolonged treatment, the cost of treatment can be hefty for women who do not have a medical insurance plan. A medical insurance plan with critical illness coverage like cancer for women can safeguards your financial assets during an unforeseen medical emergency.

With this health policy, you and your family members can get treatment in reputed healthcare facilities. TATA AIG offers health insurance plans that are customised to your unique healthcare needs.

Our family medical insurance plan offers medical coverage to all insured family members. The sum insured is distributed among all the family members. Furthermore, for women policyholders, we offer unique add-on for breast cancer, ovarian cancer and cervical cancer screening. Moreover, we also provide cover for cervical cancer vaccination.

So, get yourself and your family covered with our health insurance plan now.

Can breast cancer be cured?

Breast cancer can often be treated and managed, if detected early. Many women experience long-term survival and remission through treatments like surgery, chemotherapy, radiation and targeted therapies. Early detection significantly increases the chances of successful treatment.

Does cancer affect physical appearance?

Yes, cancer treatment options such as chemotherapy and radiation therapy can affect physical appearance. It causes hair loss, weight loss, skin colour changes, etc.

What food can reduce the risk of cervical cancer in women?

To lower the risk of cervical cancer in women, it is best to follow a diet that incorporates whole grains, fruits and vegetables.