Chronic and
Lifestyle Diseases
Learn more about your health
and how our technology can help
Overview
Lung cancer originates from the tissues of the lung, typically in the cells lining the air passages. The two main types of lung cancer are: small-cell lung cancer and non-small cell lung cancer. They are diagnosed based on how the cells look under a microscope. Non-small cell lung cancer is more common and includes squamous cell carcinoma, adeno carcinoma, and large cell carcinoma. Small cell lung cancer is rarer but tends to be aggressive and difficult to find until it has already spread (especially to the brain).
- Most common form
- Occurs mainly in current or former smokers, but is also found in young adults, women, and people who have never smoked.
- Usually begins in the outer regions of the lungs
- Usually begins in the center of the lungs
- May cause symptoms at an early stage as compared to cancer in the outer lungs
- Often spreads to other parts of the body because of constant flow of blood and lymph through the lungs
People who smoke are at greater risk of developing lung cancer than people who do not. The risk of lung cancer increases with the length of time and number of cigarettes you have smoked. If you quit smoking, even after smoking for many years, you can significantly reduce your chances of developing lung cancer.
Signs and symptoms of lung cancer typically occur when the disease is in an advanced stage. It is the most common cancer in India and is the leading cause of cancer-related mortality in men.
Risk Factors
- Tobacco consumption and inhaling secondhand smoke (smoke exhaled by the smoker) increases your risk for lung cancer
- Poor living and working conditions are known to increase the risk of lung cancer. This includes exposure to arsenic, chromium, diesel exhaust, silica, nickel, and chemicals in the workplace or to toxic chemical particles from smoke clinging to household items like curtains, furniture
- Inhaling asbestos fibers has been directly linked to increasing the risk to lung cancer and other respiratory conditions. Asbestos is widely used in house construction, automobiles parts and textiles.
- Exposure to Radon that is released naturally from dirt and rocks, construction material, and natural cooking gas. It can accumulate in homes and buildings and is usually highest in the basement.
- An unhealthy diet with a low intake of foods like carrots that are rich in beta-carotene, a Vitamin A deficiency, or drinking water contaminated with arsenic put you at a higher risk of lung cancer.
- People with a family history of lung cancer in first degree relatives (parent, sibling, or child), sharing the same living space with an affected person, or have received radiation therapy to the chest area are at higher risk.
Stages of Lung Cancer
Lung cancer typically doesn't cause obvious symptoms in the earlier stages, making early detection difficult without screening tests.
Non-small cell lung cancer has 4 stages.
Stage 1: Cancer is detected in the lung, but it has not spread outside the lung.
Stage 2: Cancer is detected in the lung and has spread to nearby lymph nodes.
Stage 3: Cancer is detected in the lung and lymph nodes in the middle of the chest.
Stage 4: Cancer has spread to other lungs and into the area surrounding the lungs, or to distant organs.
Small-cell lung cancer has two main stages, the limited stage and the extensive stage. In the limited stage, cancer is found in only one lung or nearby lymph nodes on the same side, while cancer in the extensive stage means it has spread throughout one lung, to the opposite lung, or to distant organs.
Screening for Lung Cancer
Currently, a CT scan (computerized tomography scan) is the only way of detecting early-stage lung cancer. A CT scan uses many sequential X-ray images taken from various angles around your body and processes it to create detailed cross-sectional images (slices) of the body part.
Overview
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is an inflammatory lung disease that obstructs airflow from the lungs. Its symptoms include breathing difficulty, cough, mucus (sputum) production and wheezing. Existing lung conditions such as emphysema and chronic bronchitis are the two most common contributors to COPD. Emphysema involves damages to the lungs over time. The alveoli, tiny air sacs in the lungs, are damaged because of cigarette smoke or other irritating gases and particulate matter. Chronic bronchitis involves a long-term cough with mucus. COPD symptoms often don't appear until significant lung damage has occurred, and they usually worsen over time, particularly if smoking exposure continues. India has the highest number of COPD cases and related deaths in the world. After heart diseases, it is the second most common cause of death in the country. People affected with COPD are at an increased risk for developing heart disease, lung cancer and a variety of other conditions. However, it is preventable if found early. With proper management, most people are able to control its symptoms, as well as reduce risk of other associated conditions.
People who smoke are at greater risk of developing lung cancer than people who do not. The risk of lung cancer increases with the length of time and number of cigarettes you have smoked. If you quit smoking, even after smoking for many years, you can significantly reduce your chances of developing lung cancer.
Signs and symptoms of lung cancer typically occur when the disease is in an advanced stage. It is the most common cancer in India and is the leading cause of cancer-related mortality in men.
Risk Factors
- Smoking and exposure to secondhand smoke increases your risk of COPD, especially in addition to having asthma or certain genetic factors.
- Poor living and working conditions like exposure to dusts and chemicals in the workplace or to fumes from burning fuel in poorly ventilated homes increases the risk for COPD.
- Older age, specifically over the age of 40, puts you at greater risk of COPD, as symptoms take years to develop.
- Genetic disorders like alpha-1-antitrypsin deficiency, though rare, is the cause of some cases of COPD.
Screening for COPD
There is evidence that suggests that COPD is under diagnosed in India, partly because diagnosis is based on symptoms (for which people are often late in seeking help). A CT Scan can identify LAA% (Low Attenuation Area) as COPD identification with the Goddard score which is a global standard system.
Overview
Coronary Heart Disease develops when the major blood vessels become damaged or diseased. Plaque (deposits made of fats, cholesterol, calcium, and other substances in the blood) and inflammation are usually the cause. Plaque builds up in the arteries and decreases blood flow to your heart. Over time, the decreased blood flow may cause symptoms of coronary heart disease such as chest pain and shortness of breath. A complete blockage can cause a heart attack. Since plaque buildup happens over time, you may not show any symptoms, until there is a significant blockage. However, it is possible to prevent and treat this disease, beginning with early detection of the disease and making changes for a healthier lifestyle
Risk Factors
- Older age puts you at greater risk of Coronary Heart Disease
- Gender factors into your likelihood of developing Coronary Heart Disease, with men being at greater risk, while the risk for women increases after menopause
- A family history of heart disease especially if your father or brother was diagnosed before age 55 or your mother or sister before age 65 increases your risk
- Smoking and exposure to secondhand smoke significantly increases your risk of Coronary Heart Disease
- High blood pressure increases strain on your heart and raises your risk of Coronary Heart Disease
- High blood cholesterol levels can lead to plaque buildup in arteries and increase the risk of Coronary Heart Disease
- Type 2 Diabetes is strongly linked with an increased risk of developing Coronary Heart Disease
- Obesity due to unhealthy eating habits and a sedentary lifestyle increases the risk of heart disease and other health conditions
- High stress levels may damage arteries and worsen other risk factors for Coronary Heart Disease
- An unhealthy diet that has high amounts of saturated fat, trans fat, salt and sugar put you at higher risk.
Screening for Coronary Heart Disease
A specialized CT scan of the heart helps the doctor detect and measure calcium in the plaque, even if you are asymptomatic. Based on the calcium score, the doctor will advise you if you need medication or lifestyle changes to reduce the risk of heart problems in the future.
Overview
Hyperlipidaemia is abnormally elevated levels of lipids or lipoproteins in the blood. Lipids (water-insoluble molecules) are transported in a protein capsule. The size of that capsule determines its density. The lipoprotein density and type of apolipoproteins it contains determines the fate of the particle and its influence on metabolism. Hyperlipidaemia are divided into primary and secondary subtypes. Primary hyperlipidaemia is usually due to genetic causes (such as a mutation in a receptor protein), while secondary hyperlipidaemia arises due to other underlying causes such as diabetes. Lipid and lipoprotein abnormalities are common in the general population and are regarded as modifiable risk factors for cardiovascular disease and brain stroke due to their influence on atherosclerosis.
Screening for Heart & Brain vessel health
Blood tests help doctors evaluate multiple aspects of your health from how your organs are working. It allows them to assess your risk factors for prostate cancer, heart disease and brain stroke liver conditions and various other conditions. Any result outside of the reference range may indicate the need for further evaluation. A blood lipid profile measures the levels of each type of fat in your blood: sensitive as dry chemistry technology and is being used successfully across the world.
Overview
A blood pressure test is used to measure the pressure in your arteries as your heart pumps. It is recommended at least once every two year to screen for high blood pressure as a risk factor for heart disease and stroke, starting at age 18. It is recommended that you have a blood pressure test at least once a year if you're older than 40 or have additional risks for heart disease, such as being overweight or if you have a family history of abnormal pressure or heart disease.
Overview
Breast Cancer is one of the most common types of cancer in women and is highly treatable if detected early. The survival rate is 99% if it is found early and treated. While it is not clear why some people who don't have risk factors develop breast cancer while others with risk factors don't, research has identified that lifestyle, environmental and hormonal factors may increase your risk for the disease. About 5 to 10 percent of breast cancers are linked to inherited mutated genes. Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women. In India, 25.8 per one lakh women is likely to develop breast cancer during her lifetime.
- Typically forms in the milk-producing glands or the ducts which bring this milk to the nipple.
- The cancer can sometimes develop in the tissues of the breast..
- One of the mian ways it spreads is through the lymphatic system
Risk Factors
- Women are much more likely to develop breast cancer than men
- Older age specifically people above the age of 50 years, are at an increased risk. Though, more and more cases are being reported in women below 35
- Inherited genes like BRCA1 and BRCA2 in women put them at higher risk, especially if they are younger. They are also likely to be affected in both breasts.
- People with a personal history of breast cancer in one breast have a likelihood of developing cancer in the other
- People with a family history of breast cancer in first degree relatives, especially if they developed it at a young age, put you at higher risk
- Previous exposure to radiation such as radiation therapy to the chest area puts you at higher risk
- Obesity due to unhealthy eating and sedentary lifestyle increases risk not only for breast cancer but multiple other diseases
- Early onset of menstruation before age 12 or late menopause increases your risk for breast cancer
- Hormone medications for estrogen and progesterone increase the risk for breast cancer
- Pregnancy after age 35 or women who have never been pregnant may be at a higher risk
- Lactation for a shorter period of time, increases the risk of breast cancer
- Excessive alcohol consumption increases risk not only for breast cancer but multiple other diseases
Stages of Breast Cancer
Breast cancer has 4 stages.
Stage I: Cancer is in an early stage, small and located only in the breast tissue or lymph node close to the breast.
Stage II: Cancer is either in the breast or in very few lymph nodes nearby or both.
Stage III: This stage is called 'locally advanced breast cancer'. Cancer has spread from the breast and nearby lymph nodes to skin of the breast or to the chest wall.
Stage IV: Cancer has spread to distant organs.
Screening for Breast Cancer
Regular mammograms are the best way to find breast cancer, even before symptoms appear. Mammography is the process of using low dose radiation specifically to see the image of the breast tissues and assess breast health. Each breast is examined separately and compressed against the digital detector film to obtain the best quality images for assessment.
Overview
Your kidneys filter excess water and wastes out of your blood system. An unhealthy kidney means they can't filter blood the way they should, leading to various health complications. Diabetes and high blood pressure put you at greater risk for kidney disease.
Screening for Kidney Disease
Blood tests help doctors evaluate multiple aspects of your health from how your organs are working. It allows them to assess your risk factors for kidney diseases and various other conditions. Blood urea nitrogen and creatinine are both waste products which are filtered out by the kidney. A typical blood test screens for any abnormality in the values of these two.If a result is outside of the reference range it may indicate the need for further evaluation. Our dry chemistry test is highly sensitive and is being used successfully across the world.
Overview
Osteoporosis is a disease that causes your bones to lose their density or become thin. When your bones get thin, they also become fragile, making them more susceptible to breaks. Studies have shown that bone loss starts from the age of 30–40 years in both men and women. Osteoporosis is usually defined on the basis of bone mineral density assessment. Early detection can help manage some risk factors, either by medications, healthy diet and weight bearing exercises.
Risk Factors
- Gender is a major factor in assessing your likelihood of developing osteoporosis, with women being much more at risk than men due to decreased estrogen post menopause
- Older age puts you at greater risk of osteoporosis
- Being of Asian descent puts you at greatest risk of osteoporosis
- A family history of osteoporosis in first degree relatives (parent, sibling, or child), puts you at greater risk, especially if your mother or father fractured a hip
- Body frame size dictates your risk, with men and women who have small body frames tending to have a higher risk because they might have less bone mass
- Sedentary lifestyle increases risk not only for breast cancer but multiple other diseases
- Prolonged steroid intake puts you at a high risk of developing osteoporosis
- Chronic medical problems such as kidney or liver disease, cancer, lupus, rheumatoid arthritis increase your risk of osteoporosis
- An unhealthy diet that is poor in Vit D and Calcium increases your risk of osteoporosis
- Smoking and exposure to secondhand smoke increases your risk of osteoporosis
- Excessive alcohol consumption increases risk not only for osteoporosis but multiple other diseases
Screening for Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis is a silent condition that weakens bones and increases the risk of fractures, especially in older adults. Early screening is essential to identify low bone density before complications arise. At our center, we assess bone mineral density using advanced CT technology. By analyzing the Hounsfield Unit (HU) values of spinal vertebrae on ultra-low dose CT scans, we can estimate bone strength without additional tests or radiation. This method enables early detection of osteopenia and osteoporosis helping you take timely steps to protect your bone health.
Overview
An accurate calculation of your weight and height helps identify if you are underweight, normal or healthy weight, overweight or obese and identify associated risks. These parameters are different for men and women, due to the differences in body composition.
Overview
Cervical cancer develops in a woman's cervix (the entrance to the uterus from the vagina). 99% of cervical cancer cases are linked to long term infection with the extremely common, but high risk, human papillomaviruses (HPV), which is transmitted through sexual contact.
Most cervical cancers are squamous cell
carcinomas, where the cancer
begins in the thin, flat cells or squamous cells which line the outer part of the cervix.
Although the HPV vaccination reduces the possibility of developing cervical cancer later in life, regular screening is a must as the vaccine does not protect against all types of the virus.
It is the second most common cancer among Indian women. It can be easily prevented, as it has a long pre-cancerous phase which can be detected if women screen themselves regularly.
Risk Factors
- Multiple sexual partners either for the woman or her husband increases the risk of cervical cancer
- A persistent HPV infection can increase a woman's risk of cervical cancer
- Sexual intercourse at a young age increases the risk of developing cervical cancer
- Giving birth to many children can increase the risk of cervical cancer
- Tobacco consumption in any form increases your risk for cervical cancer
- Woman with immune system deficiency because of other factors such as HIV/AIDS, immunosuppressive drugs, organ transplants
Stages of Cervical Cancer
As per FIGO 2018 Cervical cancer has 4 stages.
Stage I: The cancer is confined to cervix.
Stage II: The cancer has grown beyond the uterus to nearby tissues and upper part of the vagina.
Stage III: The cancer has spread to lower part of the vagina and pelvic wall. It has caused kidney issues and affects nearby lymph nodes.
Stage IV: The cancer has spread to distant organs.
Screening for Cervical Cancer
At AURA we screen for cervical cancer using Colposcopy. A PAP Smear is the traditional way of screening for cervical cancer, but it has the possibility of being inaccurate. During a colposcopy the doctor closely study the cervix with a colposcope, a special magnifying instrument with a bright light, that allows for quick and accurate diagnoses. We use an AI based dual fluorescence colposcope which uses blue light in addition to regular light to increase the visibility and accurately identify early stages of cancer. This is a highly sensitive screening tool.
Overview
The colon is also called the large intestine, which is a 5 feet long, tube-like organ in the digestive tract, which absorbs water from the stool. Colon cancer usually begins when non-cancerous polyps in the lining of the colon become cancerous over a period of time. While there is no certain cause for colon cancer, adapting to a healthier lifestyle reduces your risk.
Compared to other countries,
the instances of colon cancer are much lesser in India.
It is often grouped together with rectal cancer as they have many similar features and called colorectal cancer.
Risk Factors
- Older age, specifically over the age of 50, puts you at greater risk of colon cancer
- A personal history of colorectal polyps or colorectal cancer, like certain types of polyps known as 'adenomatous polyps' (adenomas) or you have had colorectal cancer earlier, increases your chances of developing new cancers in other areas of the colon and rectum
- A personal history of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) like ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease (types of inflammatory bowel diseases), increases your risk of developing colorectal cancer
- A family history of colorectal cancer in first degree relatives (parent, sibling, or child), especially if they developed it at a young age, increases your risk for colorectal cancer
- Inherited genetic syndromes passed through your family can increase your risk of colon cancer. These syndromes include familial adenomatous polyposis and hereditary nonpolyposis colorectal cancer (Lynch syndrome)
- Obesity due to unhealthy eating and sedentary lifestyle increases risk not only for colon cancer but multiple other diseases
- Smoking and exposure to secondhand smoke increases your risk of colon cancer
- Type 2 diabetes and insulin resistance may increase your risk of colon cancer
- Excessive alcohol consumption increases risk not only for colon cancer but multiple other diseases
- An unhealthy diet that has high amounts of red and processed meats increases the risk of colon cancer
- Radiation therapy directed at the abdomen to treat previous cancers may increase your chances of developing colon cancer
Stages of Colon Cancer
Colon cancer typically doesn't cause obvious symptoms in the earlier stages, making early detection difficult without screening tests.
Colon cancer has five stages.
Stage 0 or Carcinoma in situ: Abnormal cells are limited to the innermost lining of the colon, where they started and have not spread elsewhere.
Stage I: Cancer has formed in the innermost lining and has spread to the muscular layer of the colon. It has not spread to other nearby tissues or lymph nodes.
Stage II: Cancer has grown through the wall of the colon or rectum into the lining of the abdomen and nearby structures. It has not spread to the nearby lymph nodes or elsewhere.
Stage III: Cancer has grown into the intestinal muscles and spread to lymph nodes but not to distant parts of the body.
Stage IV: Cancer has spread to distant organs.
Screening for Colon Cancer
Fecal immunochemical test (FIT)is a screening test used for detecting colon cancer. Blood vessels in larger colorectal polyps (abnormal tissue growths) and cancers are often fragile and can easily be damaged by the passage of stool. FIT tests for the presence of this hidden blood, as an early sign of precancerous or cancerous cells. Since FIT only detects human blood from the lower intestines, presence of medicines and food does not interfere with the test. So, it tends to be more accurate and have fewer false positive results than other tests. FIT is less invasive and can be done at home. We use a high-quality FIT kit, developed in Japan, that requires a very small amount of stool. Our highly sensitive FIT machine can analyse the sample and produce accurate results in just 5 minutes.
Overview
Your liver plays a vital role in various bodily functions like protein production, blood clotting and metabolism. It is essential for digesting food and filtering toxic substances out of your body. Liver disease can be inherited from your parents but can also be caused by damage to the liver, caused by viruses, alcohol use and obesity.
Screening for Liver Health
Blood tests help doctors evaluate multiple aspects of your health from how your organs are working. It allows them to assess your risk factors for liver conditions and various other conditions. Any result outside of the reference range may indicate the need for further evaluation.
Blood tests for the liver check for the levels of specific enzymes and proteins, produced by the liver. The liver produces enzymes like Alanine transaminase (ALT), an enzyme that helps convert proteins into energy and Aspartate transaminase (AST), an enzyme that helps metabolize amino acids. It also produces Albumin and Total Protein, needed to fight infections and Gamma-glutamyltransferase (GGT), an enzyme that plays an important role in helping the liver metabolize drugs and other toxins. Abnormalities in the levels of these enzymes and proteins indicate the possibility of liver damage or disease.
Our dry chemistry test is highly sensitive and is being used successfully across the world.
Overview
Cancer of the esophagus or food pipe is called esophageal cancer. The esophagus wall is made up of multiple layers of tissue. The cancer usually begins in the lining of the esophagus and spreads outwards but can occur anywhere. In India, it is the 6th most common cancer. It has been researched not just in India but globally, that the rates of incidence depend on the region.
- Most common form
- Occurs mainly in current or former smokers, but is also found in young adults, women, and people who have never smoked.
- Usually begins in the outer regions of the lungs
- Usually begins in the center of the lungs
- May cause symptoms at an early stage as compared to cancer in the outer lungs
- Often spreads to other parts of the body because of constant flow of blood and lymph through the lungs
Risk Factors
- Gender plays a vital role, with men being at double the risk when compared to women
- Tobacco consumption in any form, whether smoked or smokeless
- Excessive alcohol consumption increases risk not only for esophageal cancer but multiple other diseases
- People with existing esophageal conditions such as Gastroesophageal reflux disease and Barrett's esophagus
- Obesity due to unhealthy eating and sedentary lifestyle increases risk not only for esophageal cancer but multiple other diseases
- An unhealthy diet which lacks sufficient quantity of fruits and vegetables, is high in processed meat or drinking very hot liquids increase the risk of esophageal cancer
Stages of Esophageal Cancer
Esophageal cancer has 5 stages.
Stage 0 or carcinoma in situ: Cancer is limited to the top layer of cells lining the esophagus and have not spread elsewhere.
Stage 1: Cancer has spread from the top layer of cells into the deeper tissues but is still limited anywhere within the esophagus.
Stage 2: Cancer has spread from the top layer of cells into the deeper tissues and/or nearby lymph nodes but not spread to distant organs.
Stage 3: Cancer has spread to the layers of the esophagus and nearby lymph nodes.
Stage 4: Cancer has spread to distant organs.
Screening for Esophageal Cancer
While there are no routine screening tests for esophageal cancer, an Upper Gastrointestinal Endoscopy is one way of studying the esophagus for abnormalities.
Overview
Laryngeal cancer is a rare cancer of the larynx, or voice box, found at in the neck above the windpipe. Depending on where cancer starts, it is treated accordingly. There is a possibility that this type of cancer can damage your voice. Almost all laryngeal cancers are squamous cell carcinomas, which are thin, flat cells which are found in the inner lining of the larynx.
- Top part of larynx, just above the glottis.
- It contains the epiglottis, a flap that closes the larynx to send food down the oesophagus to stomach.
- It also helps keep fluids and food from going into lungs.
- Middle part of larynx, between superglottis and subglottis.
- It contains vocal chords, which are a pair of muscles which vibrate to produce sounds.
- Moves upwards while swallowing.
- Bottom part of larynx, between glottis and windpipe.
- Moves downwards while swallowing.
Risk Factors
- Tobacco consumption in any form increases your risk for laryngeal cancer
- An unhealthy diet which lacks enough fruits and vegetables, is high in processed meat or drinking very hot liquids increase the risk of laryngeal cancer
- Excessive alcohol consumption increases risk not only for laryngeal cancer but multiple other diseases
- Workplace exposure to toxins such as Asbestos, a known human carcinogen has been directly and scientifically linked to causing multiple kinds of cancer. It is widely used in house construction materials, automobiles parts and textiles.
- People with a family history of throat cancer have an increased risk of Laryngeal cancer
- People with genetic conditions such as Fanconi anemia have an increased risk of laryngeal cancer
Stages of Laryngeal Cancer
Laryngeal cancer staging is complicated because it depends on if cancer started in the supraglottis, glottis or subglottis. Each have specific descriptions.
Stage 0 or carcinoma in situ: Cancer is limited to the top layer of cells lining the larynx and have not spread elsewhere.
Stage 1: Depending on where the cancer is found
Supraglottis – Cancer is limited to one area of the supraglottis only and has not affected the vocal cords
Glottis – Cancer is within one or two vocal cords
Subglottis – Cancer is in the subglottis only.
Stage 2: Differs based on where it originated, but the cancer is still within the larynx
Supraglottis – Cancer has spread to more than one area of the supraglottis and nearby tissues
Glottis – Cancer has spread to the supraglottis and/or the subglottis. It may have also affected the vocal cords
Subglottis – Cancer has spread to one or both vocal cords
Stage 3: There are multiple descriptions for this stage, depending on where cancer has begun. Broadly, the cancer may still be contained within the larynx and has affected the vocal cords. It might have also spread to nearby tissues and/or nearby lymph nodes.
Stage 4: Cancer has spread to nearby or distant organs.
Screening for Laryngeal Cancer
While there are no routine screening tests for laryngeal cancer, an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy is one way of studying the larynx for abnormalities.
Overview
More than one-third of the world's oral cancer cases are found in India. Lifestyle related risk factors such as using tobacco in any form, mainly chewing tobacco or gutka and heavy drinking contribute to a majority of oral cancer cases.
- The oral cavity includes lips, gums, tongue, inner cheek lining, roof and floor of the mouth.
- More than one-third of the world's oral cancer cases are found in India.
Risk Factors
- Tobacco consumption in any form, whether smoked or smokeless specially chewing
- Excessive alcohol consumption increases risk not only for oral cancer but multiple other diseases
- Sharp teeth or ill fitting dentures: Chronic irritation of gums and cheek by ill fitting dentures or sharp teeth
- An unhealthy diet that has high amounts of red and processed meats increases the risk of colon cancer
- Human Papillomavirus (HPV): HPV infection increases the risk of certain types of oral cancer, especially in younger people
- Immune system deficiency because of other factors such as HIV/AIDS, immunosuppressive drugs, organ transplants, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, certain immune deficiency diseases at birth
- Exposure to sun's ultraviolet rays may cause lip cancer
Stages of Oral Cancer
Oral cancer is staged based on the size of the tumour and the degree of spread. It usually has five stages.
Stage 0 or carcinoma in situ: Cancer is limited to growth in the outermost later of tissue in the oral cavity. It has not spread elsewhere.
Stage 1: Cancer is less than 2 cm in size and have not spread to nearby lymph nodes.
Stage 2: Cancer is between 2 and 4 cms and has not spread to nearby lymph nodes.
Stage 3: Cancer is more than 4 cm in size or cancer is any size but spread to one lymph node on the same side of the neck as the cancer. The lymph node is a maximum of 3 cms in size.
Stage 4: Cancer has spread to nearby tissues or lymph nodes on either side of the neck or any lymph node measures more than 6 cms or has spread to other parts of the body.
Screening for Oral Cancer
Many oral cancers have a long early pre-cancer period during which they may show the same types of symptoms like lesions. Early detection of these lesions is possible during routine general health check-ups/screening by doctors/dentists/health workers (oral visual examination) or by oral self-examination. At AURA we use an AI based dual fluorescence imaging system which uses blue light in addition to regular light to accurately identify the early stages of the cancer.
Overview
Stomach cancer or gastric cancer can start anywhere in the stomach and usually begins in the stomach lining. This type is called adenocarcinoma. Stomach cancer is the 3rd most common cancer in men and 4th most common cancer in India.
- Cancer in the gastroesophageal junction, which is the meeting point of the top of the stomach and the esophagus is becoming increasingly common.
- At the same time, the rate of cancer in the main part of the stomach has been decreasing.
Risk Factors
- While exact risk factors are not known yet, most causes seem to be because of lifestyle factors.
- An Unhealthy Diet which lacks in sufficient quantity of fruits and vegetables, is high in salt content, high in processed red and processed meat and smoked food may increase risk for stomach cancer
- Tobacco consumption in any form, whether smoked or smokeless
- Excessive alcohol consumption increases risk not only for stomach cancer but multiple other diseases
- Helicobacter pylori, a bacteria commonly found in the stomach and duodenum has been established as the root cause of most of the stomach ulcers and gastritis. Antibiotics can treat an infection
- Certain Medical Conditions such as long-term inflammation of the stomach, anemia due to vitamin B12 deficiency, stomach polyps, obesity may increase the risk of stomach cancer
- Toxins in foods like groundnuts contaminated with a fungus called aflatoxin may increase the risk of stomach cancer
- Age above 75 increases risk for stomach cancer
- Men are at double the risk as compared to women
- Certain genetic conditions such as family history, especially in the first degree, Blood Group A, and certain inherited syndromes such as Fraumeni syndrome and Familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP)
Stages of Stomach Cancer
Stomach cancer has 5 stages:
Stage 0 or Carcinoma in situ: Abnormal cells or cancerous cells are limited to the stomach lining, where they started and have not spread elsewhere.
Stage I: Cancer is contained in the top layer of tissue that lines the inside of the stomach. The cancer cells may have also spread to 1-2 nearby lymph nodes.
Stage II: Cancer has spread from the lining to the stomach muscles and can be found in nearby lymph nodes as well.
Stage III: Cancer may have grown through all the layers of the stomach and spread nearby or affected lymph nodes more extensively.
Stage IV: Cancer has spread to the distant areas of the body.
Screening for Stomach Cancer
While there are no routine screening tests for Stomach cancer, an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy is one way of studying the stomach for abnormalities.
Overview
The prostate is a small walnut-shaped gland present only in men that produces the seminal fluid that nourishes and protects sperm. At AURA, as part of the screening for Prostate Cancer we test for abnormal levels of Prostate Specific Antigen, a protein produced by the prostate.
- Prostate Cancer is one of the most common cancers in men.
- In the initial stages, it grows very slowly and is restricted to the gland.
- 5 yr survival rate for prostate cancer found at this stage is nearly 100 %
It can be easily prevented, as it has a long pre-cancerous phase which can be detected if men screen themselves regularly.
Risk Factors
- Older age puts you at greater risk of prostate cancer, especially after the age of 50
- Race is a major factor in assessing your likelihood of developing prostate cancer, observed to usually be more aggressive or advanced in people of African heritage
- A family history of prostate cancer increases your risk of developing the condition later in life. A strong family history of breast cancer has also been linked to a higher risk of prostate cancer
- Obesity makes you more likely to have other advanced diseases, making treatment for prostate cancer more difficult
Stages of Prostate Cancer
Prostate cancer has four stages.
Stage I: Cancer is limited to the prostate and PSA levels are less than 10
Stage II: Cancer is limited to the prostate but PSA levels are between 10 and 20
Stage III: Cancer has spread beyond the outer layer of the prostate and may have spread to the seminal vesicles. The PSA can be any level.
Stage IV: Cancer has spread to seminal vesicles to nearby organs, lymph nodes and bones. PSA can be any level.
Screening for Prostate Cancer
Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) Test
A blood test called a prostate specific antigen (PSA) test measures the level of PSA in the blood. PSA is a substance made by the prostate. The levels of PSA in the blood can be higher in men who have prostate cancer. The PSA level may also be elevated in other conditions that affect the prostate. As a rule, the higher the PSA level in the blood, the more likely a prostate problem is present. But many factors, such as age and race, can affect PSA levels. Some prostate glands make more PSA than others.
Overview
Leukaemia is a cancer of the body's blood-forming tissues, including the bone marrow and the lymphatic system. Your white blood cells normally grow and divide in an orderly way, as your body needs them. But in the case of someone with leukaemia, the bone marrow produces abnormal white blood cells that don't function properly. Leukaemia is of two types, Acute, which comes on suddenly and Chronic, which lasts for a long period of time. Chronic leukaemia rarely occurs in children.
- Leukaemia usually involves the white blood cells and tends to affect either one of its types- lymphocytes and granulocytes.
- Cancer of the lymphocytes is called lymphocytic leukemia
- Cancer of the granulocytes is called myeloid or myelogenous leukemia.
Risk Factors
- A family history of leukaemia increases your risk of developing the condition later in life
- Smoking and exposure to secondhand smoke increases your risk of developing acute myeloid leukaemia (AML)
- Genetic disorders such as Down syndrome increases your risk for leukaemia
- Blood disorders such as myelodysplastic syndrome, which is sometimes called "preleukaemia" increase your risk of developing leukaemia
- Radiation from previous treatment for cancer or exposure to high levels of radiation
- Exposure to chemicals such as benzene increases your risk for leukaemia
Stages of Leukaemia
Acute Myeloid Leukaemia (AML)
This type of cancer is not staged like other cancers as it usually does not form tumors. Treatment depends on multiple other information such as the subtype of AML, the age of the patient and other tests.
Chronic Lymphocytic Leukaemia
This type of cancer has 4 stages.
Stage 0: Too many lymphocytes in the blood but no other symptoms can be seen.
Stage 1: Too many lymphocytes in the blood along with swollen lymph nodes.
Stage 2: Too many lymphocytes in the blood along with swollen lymph nodes, spleen and liver.
Stage 3: Too many lymphocytes in the blood, affecting the development of red blood cells, leading to anemia.
Stage 4: Too many lymphocytes in the blood, too few platelets and red blood cells. The lymph nodes, spleen, and liver may be swollen.
Screening for Leukaemia
Many types of leukaemia don't show symptoms. Like all other cancers, early detection can help in successful treatment. At AURA, as part of the screening for Leukaemia we test for immature and unusual white blood cells.
Overview
Diabetes refers to a group of various diseases that affect how your body uses blood sugar (glucose). Glucose, at optimal quantities, is vital to your health being an important source of energy for your muscles and tissues. It's also your brain's main source of fuel.
The underlying cause of diabetes varies by type, but it usually leads to excess sugar in your blood, leading to serious health problems.
Screening for Diabetes
Blood tests help doctors evaluate multiple aspects of your health from how your organs are working.
A hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) test measures the average amount of blood sugar (glucose) attached to hemoglobin over the past 3 months, the typical life of the red blood cell. This test is used to check for diabetes in adults. If you already have diabetes, it can help monitor your condition and glucose levels. Diabetes is a risk factor for multiple other health conditions. The most common type of Diabetes is Type 2, but it can be prevented or delayed with simple lifestyle changes such as managing your weight, eating healthier and regular exercise.