Why does cancer recur?Image Credit source: PTI and Getty Images
Pankaj Dheer played the role of Karna in BR Chopra’s Mahabharata. He died of cancer. The family has not given information about which cancer Pankaj had, although his cancer was cured, but it had come back again. For this he also underwent surgery, but his life could not be saved. Experts say that in many cases cancer returns again, but doctors have explained why this happens.
Dr. Rohit Kapoor in the Oncology Department at Max Hospital, Ghaziabad. It is said that some cancers recur even after treatment. Although they come back after a few years. The main reason for recurrence of cancer is that in many cases some cancer cells remain in the body even after treatment. These are not detected at that time and the patient or the doctors think that the disease is over. These cells are not identified because they are very small and are not visible in tests or scans. These cells become active again with time and gradually start forming tumors. In many cases, they are detected when cancer symptoms start growing again in the body after treatment.
Cancer cells are saved from the effects of medicines
Dr. Mukesh Nagar in the Oncology Department at Safdarjung Hospital It is said that cancer cells are very clever. They make changes in their genes and protect themselves from the effects of medicines. They then become active again and cause cancer.
Dr. Nagar says that people who have weak immunity also have the risk of getting cancer again. Due to weak immunity, cancer cells are not completely destroyed and the disease reoccurs.
According to Dr Nagar, there are some cancers which have a higher risk of recurrence. For example, there are more cases of recurrence of lung cancer or breast cancer.
What is the way to prevent cancer from recurring?
According to Dr. Nagar, to prevent cancer from recurring, it is important that the patient gets regular follow-up done by the doctor after the previous treatment. For this, blood test and screening should be done every three or six months. If you are suddenly losing weight, are always tired and any lump is forming in the body, then definitely consult a doctor.