Treatments - Dr Suneel Kaushik K

Consultant insight

Breast Cancer

Breast cancer develops in the ducts or lobules of the breast and is one of the most frequently diagnosed cancers globally. Early detection through screening greatly improves survival, though some types can be aggressive. Risk factors include age, hormonal influences, genetics (such as BRCA mutations), lifestyle habits, and certain breast conditions. Treatment often involves a combination of surgery, systemic therapies, radiotherapy, and ongoing monitoring.

Clinical Focus Areas

Regular screening through mammography and breast exams

Accurate diagnosis using imaging and biopsy

Personalized treatment planning (surgery, chemo, radiation, targeted therapy, hormonal therapy)

Genetic counseling for hereditary risk

Rehabilitation for arm mobility and lymphedema management

Care Guidance

Perform routine breast self-exams

Maintain a healthy body weight

Limit alcohol consumption

Follow all recommended imaging schedules

Seek emotional support or counseling when needed

Consultant insight

Cervical Cancer

Cervical cancer is primarily caused by persistent HPV infection and is highly preventable through vaccination and routine screening. Early detection ensures excellent outcomes, while late stages require multimodal treatment. Gynecologic oncology, radiology, and pathology play key roles in management.

Clinical Focus Areas

HPV vaccination programs

Screening with Pap smear and HPV testing

Accurate diagnosis through colposcopy and biopsy

Treatment via surgery, chemoradiation, or targeted therapy

Fertility-preserving treatment options for early stages

Care Guidance

Receive HPV vaccination if eligible

Attend all Pap/HPV tests as scheduled

Practice safe sexual habits

Quit smoking

Report abnormal bleeding promptly

Consultant insight

Colorectal Cancer

Colorectal cancers are common worldwide and often develop from precancerous polyps in the colon or rectum. Early detection significantly improves outcomes, but many cases present late due to subtle or overlooked symptoms. Risk factors include age, family history, inflammatory bowel disease, lifestyle habits (smoking, alcohol, low-fiber diet), and genetic predispositions. Effective care requires coordinated management across gastroenterology, surgical oncology, medical oncology, and radiology.

Clinical Focus Areas

Early detection and screening through colonoscopy, stool tests, and risk-based surveillance

Accurate diagnosis using imaging, endoscopic biopsy, and molecular profiling

Multidisciplinary treatment planning combining surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy

Nutritional support for digestive issues during treatment

Monitoring and preventing recurrence through follow-up care

Care Guidance

Maintain a fiber-rich, balanced diet to support gut health

Stay hydrated to improve digestion and overall metabolic function

Engage in light physical activity when advised

Avoid smoking and limit alcohol

Attend all scheduled follow-ups and screening tests

Consultant insight

Gastrointestinal (GI) Cancers

Gastrointestinal (GI) cancers refer to a group of cancers that affect the organs of the digestive system, including the esophagus, stomach, liver, pancreas, gallbladder, small intestine, colon, and rectum. These cancers are among the most common globally and often present late, making early detection and organized oncological care extremely important. Their causes include genetic factors, lifestyle habits (such as smoking, alcohol, and diet), chronic infections, and inflammatory conditions. Successful management typically requires multidisciplinary care involving medical oncology, surgical oncology, radiation therapy, gastroenterology, and precision diagnostics.

Clinical Focus Areas

Early detection and screening through colonoscopy, endoscopy, and risk-based surveillance

Accurate diagnosis using imaging, endoscopic biopsy, and molecular testing

Multidisciplinary treatment planning combining surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and targeted therapy

Nutritional management to address weight loss and digestive complications

Supportive and palliative care for symptom relief and quality-of-life improvement

Regular follow-up and surveillance to detect recurrence or metastasis

Lifestyle modification and patient counselling for long-term health maintenance

Care Guidance

Maintain a balanced, nutrient-rich diet to support strength and immunity

Stay hydrated to help digestion and overall metabolic function

Engage in light physical activity as advised to maintain energy levels

Attend all scheduled medical appointments and follow treatment plans

Report new symptoms or side effects to the healthcare team immediately

Manage stress through relaxation techniques, counseling, or support groups

Ensure adequate rest and sleep to aid recovery and mental well-being

Consultant insight

Leukemia

Leukemia is a group of cancers affecting the blood and bone marrow, leading to abnormal white blood cell production. Symptoms may appear gradually or suddenly. Risk factors include genetics, radiation exposure, and certain chemical exposures. Treatment involves hematology, oncology, transplant units, and precision diagnostics.

Clinical Focus Areas

Accurate diagnosis with blood tests, bone marrow biopsy, and genetic testing

Treatment options including chemotherapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, or stem cell transplant

Infection prevention strategies

Monitoring blood counts closely

Supportive care for fatigue and anemia

Care Guidance

Follow strict hygiene practices to reduce infection risk

Eat well-cooked, safe foods

Avoid crowded places if immunity is low

Take medications exactly as prescribed

Attend all monitoring appointments

Consultant insight

Liver Cancer

Liver cancer often arises in individuals with chronic liver disease, hepatitis B or C, fatty liver disease, or long-term alcohol use. It frequently presents late, making early detection and risk-based monitoring essential. Treatment involves hepatology, oncology, radiology, and surgical teams.

Clinical Focus Areas

Screening for high-risk patients with ultrasound and AFP blood tests

Accurate diagnosis through imaging and biopsy

Treatment options including surgery, liver-directed therapy, targeted therapy, or transplant evaluation

Managing underlying liver disease

Nutritional support for liver health

Care Guidance

Avoid alcohol and hepatotoxic substances

Maintain a healthy weight

Get vaccinated for hepatitis B

Follow liver-friendly diet guidelines

Attend all surveillance scans

Consultant insight

Lung Cancer

Lung cancer commonly arises from cells lining the airways and is strongly associated with smoking, though nonsmokers can also develop it due to genetic or environmental factors. It often presents late, making early detection and timely intervention crucial. Successful management requires multidisciplinary care involving pulmonology, oncology, thoracic surgery, and radiation therapy.

Clinical Focus Areas

Screening for high-risk individuals using low-dose CT scans

Accurate diagnosis with imaging, bronchoscopy, and molecular testing

Treatment planning with surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, immunotherapy, or targeted therapy

Smoking cessation programs

Symptom management for breathing difficulties

Care Guidance

Avoid smoking and secondhand smoke

Use breathing exercises to support lung function

Stay hydrated to ease mucus clearance

Follow treatment schedules strictly

Report breathlessness or chest pain promptly

Consultant insight

Ovarian Cancer

Ovarian cancer often presents with vague symptoms and is typically diagnosed at later stages. Risk factors include age, BRCA mutations, family history, and hormonal influences. Management relies on gynecologic oncology, surgery, chemotherapy, and genetic counseling.

Clinical Focus Areas

Early symptom recognition and ultrasound evaluation

CA-125 blood tests for monitoring

Surgical staging and tumor removal

Systemic treatments including chemotherapy and targeted therapy

Genetic testing for hereditary risk

Care Guidance

Monitor persistent bloating or pelvic pain

Maintain a balanced, nutrient-rich diet

Stay active to support strength

Follow all imaging and blood test schedules

Seek psychological support if needed

Consultant insight

Pancreatic Cancer

Pancreatic cancer develops in the pancreas and is often diagnosed late due to vague symptoms. It can progress rapidly and requires a coordinated treatment approach. Risk factors include smoking, genetics, chronic pancreatitis, and diabetes. Management involves oncology, gastroenterology, surgery, and supportive care teams.

Clinical Focus Areas

Accurate diagnosis using CT/MRI, endoscopic ultrasound, and biopsy

Multidisciplinary planning including surgery, chemotherapy, or targeted therapy

Pain and digestive symptom management

Genetic testing for hereditary risk

Nutritional support due to digestion issues

Care Guidance

Eat small, frequent meals to improve digestion

Take pancreatic enzyme supplements if prescribed

Avoid smoking

Stay active as tolerated

Report jaundice or severe abdominal pain immediately

Consultant insight

Prostate Cancer

Prostate cancer originates in the prostate gland and is common among older men. Many cases progress slowly, while others are aggressive and require immediate treatment. Risk factors include age, genetics, family history, and certain lifestyle factors. Care typically involves urology, oncology, radiology, and precision diagnostics.

Clinical Focus Areas

Routine PSA screening and prostate exams

Accurate diagnosis with MRI, biopsy, and molecular testing

Treatment pathways including active surveillance, surgery, radiation, or hormone therapy

Management of urinary and sexual health

Monitoring for recurrence through PSA tracking

Care Guidance

Limit high-fat foods and adopt a heart-healthy diet

Stay physically active

Discuss screening options with your doctor

Practice pelvic floor exercises if recommended

Report urinary changes early

Consultant insight

Skin Cancer (Melanoma & Non-Melanoma)

Skin cancers arise from abnormal growth of skin cells due to UV exposure, genetics, or environmental factors. Melanoma is aggressive, while other types like basal and squamous cell carcinoma are often more treatable when caught early. Prevention relies heavily on sun protection and regular skin checks.

Clinical Focus Areas

Early detection through skin examinations and dermoscopy

Biopsy and imaging for accurate staging

Treatment via excision, Mohs surgery, or systemic therapies for advanced cases

Patient education on UV protection

Ongoing surveillance for recurrence

Care Guidance

Use sunscreen daily

Avoid tanning beds

Wear protective clothing outdoors

Examine skin regularly for new or changing moles

See a dermatologist for any suspicious spot