On Raj Shamani’s Podcast, Dr. Mandar Nadkarni Explores Myths vs. Facts About Cancer
Cancer rates are on the rise globally, making awareness and accurate information more crucial than ever. On his podcast Figuring Out, Raj Shamani brings in one of the country’s most renowned oncologists, Dr. Mandar, who has treated celebrities like Tahira Kashyap, Hina Khan, and Manisha Koirala. Together, they explore treatment advancements, bust common myths, and break down key insights. This episode is a must-watch for anyone looking to gain clarity and hope in the fight against cancer. Here are the important takeaways from this enlightening episode:
- India leads in breast cancer deaths: Dr. Nadkarni revealed a shocking fact—India recorded the highest number of deaths from breast cancer globally in both 2022 and 2023. This staggering statistic underscores the importance of awareness and early detection in tackling this disease.
- A healthy lifestyle can lower cancer risk: While cancer prevention is not 100% possible, maintaining a healthy lifestyle can significantly reduce risk factors. Dr. Nadkarni emphasized the importance of a nutritious diet, avoiding alcohol consumption, and engaging in regular physical activity. He recommends working out for at least 45 minutes a day, five times a week, as an effective way to stay fit and lower cancer risks.
- Men can also get breast cancer: Many people assume breast cancer is exclusive to women, but Dr. Nadkarni clarified that men, though at a lower risk, can also develop this disease. This highlights the need for awareness and caution among men as well.
- Breast cancer is highly curable: A reassuring fact shared by Dr. Nadkarni is that breast cancer is one of the most curable forms of cancer. Early detection and timely treatment can lead to excellent outcomes, offering hope to those diagnosed.
- Chemotherapy may lead to blood cancer: Dr. Nadkarni explained that while chemotherapy is a critical treatment for cancer, it can sometimes lead to blood cancer as a rare side effect. Patients undergoing chemotherapy should be informed about this possibility.
- Most breast lumps are not cancerous: Contrary to popular belief, the majority of breast lumps are benign. Dr. Nadkarni debunked the myth that most lumps are cancerous, stating that eight out of ten lumps are non-cancerous. Regular screenings and medical consultations are key to differentiating between benign and malignant lumps.
- Breast cancer can affect young women too: Another myth busted during the podcast is that women under 40 don’t get breast cancer. Dr. Nadkarni emphasized that breast cancer can occur at any age, making it crucial for women of all age groups to stay informed and vigilant about their breast health.
- Breast implants don’t increase cancer risk: Addressing a common misconception, Dr. Nadkarni stated that breast implants do not increase the risk of breast cancer. In fact, some studies suggest that women with implants may have a slightly lower risk of developing breast cancer compared to those without them.
Dr. Nadkarni’s insights highlight the importance of staying informed about cancer, debunking harmful myths, and adopting a proactive approach to health. While certain risk factors can be minimized through lifestyle changes, early detection and regular medical check-ups remain crucial in the fight against cancer.
