Types of Cancer — A Complete Guide by Dr. Ekta Vala, Oncologist in Ahmedabad
Cancer is not one single disease. It is a group of more than 100 different diseases, each affecting a different part of the body. The symptoms, causes and treatment of breast cancer are completely different from those of lung cancer or blood cancer. This is why the type of cancer matters so much — getting the right diagnosis is the first step toward the right treatment.
On this page, Dr. Ekta Vala Chandarana — a Medical Oncologist based at Medisquare Superspeciality Hospital, Ahmedabad — explains the most common types of cancer seen in India, their warning signs, and how each is treated. If you or a family member has been diagnosed, or if you are worried about symptoms, this guide will help you understand what you are dealing with.
How Are Types of Cancer Classified?
Cancer is named after the organ or tissue where it first develops. For example, cancer that begins in the breast is called breast cancer even if it later spreads to other parts of the body. Doctors also classify cancer by the type of cell it starts in:
- Carcinoma — starts in skin or tissue lining organs (most common type — includes breast, lung, colon, prostate cancers)
- Sarcoma — starts in bones, muscles, fat, or connective tissue
- Lymphoma — starts in the lymphatic system (lymph nodes)
- Leukemia — starts in blood-forming tissue such as bone marrow
- Melanoma — starts in the pigment-producing cells of the skin
Each cancer is also given a stage from 1 to 4, which describes how advanced it is and whether it has spread. Stage 1 means the cancer is small and contained. Stage 4 means it has spread to other organs. Knowing the stage helps doctors plan the most effective treatment.
Most Common Types of Cancer in India — Symptoms, Causes and Treatment
The following are the most common cancers seen in India and in Dr. Ekta’s practice in Ahmedabad. Each section explains what the cancer is, what symptoms to watch for, who is at risk, and how it is treated.
The following are the most common cancers seen in India and in Dr. Ekta’s practice in Ahmedabad. Each section explains what the cancer is, what symptoms to watch for, who is at risk, and how it is treated.
1. Diving Deeper into Carcinoma Subtypes
Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women in India, accounting for 1 in every 4 female cancer diagnoses. It develops in the cells of the breast — usually in the milk ducts or the lobules. It can affect women of any age, but risk increases after 40.
Early symptoms to watch for:
- A lump or thickening in the breast or underarm that feels different from surrounding tissue
- Change in the size, shape, or appearance of the breast
- Skin dimpling on the breast — like the skin of an orange
- Nipple turning inward or nipple discharge that is not breast milk
- Redness or pitting of the skin over the breast
Who is at risk: Women over 40, women with a family history of breast cancer, those with BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutations, women who started periods early or reached menopause late, and those who have never been pregnant.
Treatment: Breast cancer is highly treatable when caught early. Treatment depends on the type and stage and may include surgery (lumpectomy or mastectomy), chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapy, or hormone therapy. Many Stage 1 and Stage 2 breast cancers are completely cured.
Dr. Ekta’s note: Regular self-examination at home and a mammogram every 2 years for women over 40 can catch breast cancer before it becomes advanced. If you feel anything unusual in your breast, do not wait — consult a specialist.
2. Cervical Cancer
Cervical cancer is the second most common cancer in Indian women. It develops in the cells of the cervix — the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina. The vast majority of cervical cancers are caused by the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) — a very common infection that most sexually active people encounter at some point in their lives.
Early symptoms to watch for:
- Unusual vaginal bleeding — between periods, after intercourse, or after menopause
- Watery, bloody vaginal discharge with an unpleasant odour
- Pelvic pain or pain during intercourse
- In early stages, there may be NO symptoms at all — which is why screening is critical
Who is at risk: Women who have not been vaccinated against HPV, women who have never had a Pap smear test, smokers, and women with a weakened immune system.
Prevention: Cervical cancer is one of the most preventable cancers. The HPV vaccine, given to girls between 9 and 14, prevents the most dangerous strains of HPV. Regular Pap smear tests (every 3 years for women aged 30 to 65) can detect abnormal cells before they become cancerous.
Treatment: Early-stage cervical cancer is treated with surgery. More advanced stages are treated with a combination of chemotherapy and radiation. When detected at Stage 1 or Stage 2, the cure rate is very high.
3. Lung Cancer
Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death worldwide and one of the most common cancers in India. It develops in the cells lining the airways of the lungs. There are two main types: non-small cell lung cancer (more common) and small cell lung cancer (grows faster, more aggressive).
Early symptoms to watch for:
- A new cough that does not go away, or a change in a chronic cough
- Coughing up blood, even a small amount
- Shortness of breath with activities that were previously easy
- Chest pain that worsens when breathing, coughing, or laughing
- Hoarseness, unexplained weight loss, or bone pain
Who is at risk: Smokers have the highest risk, but lung cancer also affects non-smokers. In Ahmedabad and across Gujarat, air pollution, passive smoking, and radon gas exposure are significant risk factors. Women who have never smoked now represent a growing proportion of lung cancer patients.
Treatment: Depending on the type and stage, lung cancer is treated with surgery, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, or a combination. New targeted therapies have dramatically improved outcomes for patients with specific genetic mutations in their cancer cells.
4. Blood Cancer — Leukemia, Lymphoma and Myeloma
Blood cancer is a general term for cancers that affect the blood, bone marrow, and lymphatic system.
There are three main types:
- Leukemia — cancer of blood-forming cells in the bone marrow. It causes an overproduction of abnormal white blood cells that cannot fight infection effectively.
- Lymphoma — cancer of the lymphatic system. Hodgkin lymphoma and Non-Hodgkin lymphoma are the two main types. Lymphoma often appears as swollen lymph nodes in the neck, armpit, or groin.
- Multiple Myeloma — cancer of plasma cells in the bone marrow. It weakens bones and impairs the immune system.
Common symptoms across all blood cancers:
- Extreme fatigue that does not improve with rest
- Unexplained weight loss and loss of appetite
- Frequent infections — the immune system cannot function properly
- Easy bruising, bleeding gums, or small red spots on the skin
- Swollen lymph nodes, especially in the neck, armpits, or groin
- Fever and night sweats without infection
Treatment: Blood cancers are treated with chemotherapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, and in some cases bone marrow transplant. Many blood cancers respond very well to treatment. Leukemia in children, for example, has a cure rate of over 90% with modern treatment protocols.
5. Oral Cancer
Oral cancer develops in any part of the mouth — the lips, tongue, gums, inner cheeks, the roof of the mouth, or the floor of the mouth under the tongue. India has one of the highest rates of oral cancer in the world, largely due to the widespread use of tobacco, betel nut (supari), and pan masala.
Early symptoms to watch for:
- A sore in the mouth that does not heal within 3 weeks
- A white or red patch on the gums, tongue, or lining of the mouth
- Difficulty chewing, swallowing, or moving the tongue or jaw
- Unexplained numbness, pain, or tenderness in the mouth or lips
- A lump or thickening in the cheek
Who is at risk: People who chew tobacco, pan masala, or betel nut are at significantly higher risk. Heavy alcohol use also increases risk. Poor dental hygiene and HPV infection are additional risk factors.
Prevention: The single most powerful prevention is stopping tobacco use in all forms. Regular dental check-ups, where a dentist can spot suspicious changes in the mouth early, are also very important.
Treatment: Early-stage oral cancer is very treatable — usually with surgery or radiation. More advanced stages require a combination of surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy. Early detection makes a dramatic difference in outcomes.
6. Colorectal Cancer — Colon and Rectal Cancer
Colorectal cancer develops in the colon (large intestine) or the rectum. It usually begins as small, non-cancerous clumps of cells called polyps, which over time can become cancerous. Colorectal cancer is rising sharply in younger adults in India — partly due to increasing rates of obesity, physical inactivity, and diets high in processed food.
Early symptoms to watch for:
- Blood in the stool or rectal bleeding — even small amounts should be investigated
- A persistent change in bowel habits — diarrhoea, constipation, or change in stool consistency
- A feeling that the bowel does not empty completely
- Abdominal pain, cramps, or discomfort
- Unexplained weight loss and fatigue
Screening: A colonoscopy is recommended from age 45 for people at average risk. Anyone with a family history of colorectal cancer should begin screening earlier. Many colorectal cancers are caught through screening before any symptoms appear.
Treatment: Surgery is the primary treatment for colorectal cancer. Chemotherapy, radiation, and targeted therapy are used depending on the stage. When caught at Stage 1 or Stage 2, the cure rate is very high.
7. Ovarian Cancer
Ovarian cancer develops in the ovaries — the female reproductive organs that produce eggs. It is sometimes called the ‘silent killer’ because its early symptoms are vague and easy to dismiss. By the time many women are diagnosed, the cancer has already reached an advanced stage. This makes early awareness especially important.
Symptoms to watch for:
- Persistent bloating, pressure, or pain in the abdomen or pelvis
- Difficulty eating or feeling full very quickly
- Frequent or urgent need to urinate
- Unexplained fatigue, back pain, or changes in bowel habits
- These symptoms are common in many conditions — but if they are NEW and happening almost daily for more than 3 weeks, see a doctor
Treatment: Treatment usually involves a combination of surgery to remove the tumour and chemotherapy. When detected early, ovarian cancer is very treatable. Newer targeted therapies and PARP inhibitors have improved outcomes significantly for advanced-stage patients.
8. Uterine Cancer — Endometrial Cancer
Uterine cancer, also called endometrial cancer, develops in the lining of the uterus (endometrium). It is the most common gynaecological cancer in India after cervical cancer, and it is most commonly diagnosed in women after menopause.
The most important symptom:
- Abnormal vaginal bleeding — any bleeding after menopause is NOT normal and must be investigated immediately
- Unusual bleeding between periods in younger women
- Pelvic pain or pain during intercourse
Who is at risk: Women who are obese, have diabetes or high blood pressure, started menopause late, never had children, or have been on long-term oestrogen therapy without progesterone are at higher risk.
Treatment: The main treatment is surgery to remove the uterus (hysterectomy). For early-stage cancers, this alone is often curative. More advanced stages may require radiation therapy or hormone therapy in addition to surgery.
8 General Cancer Warning Signs You Must Never Ignore
Regardless of the specific cancer type, the following symptoms — especially when they persist for more than 3 weeks without explanation — should be evaluated by a doctor:
- Unexplained weight loss of more than 5 kg without trying
- A new lump or swelling anywhere on the body
- A cough or hoarseness that does not go away
- Blood in urine, stool, or cough
- A wound, sore, or ulcer that does not heal within 3 weeks
- Persistent change in bowel or bladder habits
- Difficulty swallowing or persistent indigestion
- A mole or skin mark that changes shape, size, or colour
These symptoms do not necessarily mean cancer. Many have simple explanations. But they do mean you should see a doctor — and if needed, a cancer specialist. Early investigation leads to early diagnosis, and early diagnosis leads to better treatment outcomes.
What Do Cancer Stages 1, 2, 3 and 4 Mean?
When a cancer is diagnosed, the doctor will stage it — this means determining how far the cancer has spread. The stage tells both the patient and the doctor how serious the cancer is and what treatment approach is most appropriate.
| Stage | What it means | Treatment outlook |
|---|---|---|
| Stage 1 | Cancer is small, limited to where it started, has not spread | Highly curable — most patients recover completely |
| Stage 2 | Cancer has grown larger but is still in the original area | Very good outcomes with the right treatment |
| Stage 3 | Cancer is larger or has spread to nearby lymph nodes | Treatable — many patients achieve remission |
| Stage 4 | Cancer has spread to other organs (metastatic) | Manageable — treatment can control disease and improve quality of life |
An important message from Dr. Ekta: Even a Stage 4 cancer diagnosis is not the end. Many Stage 3 and Stage 4 cancers are manageable with the right combination of treatments. In our clinic in Ahmedabad, we see patients who continue to live full, meaningful lives years after an advanced cancer diagnosis. What matters most is not the stage number — it is getting the right treatment from an experienced oncologist as quickly as possible.
When Should You See an Oncologist in Ahmedabad?
You should consult a medical oncologist if:
- You have been diagnosed with any type of cancer and need a treatment plan
- You want a second opinion before starting cancer treatment
- You have a persistent symptom lasting more than 3 weeks that your regular doctor cannot explain
- A family member has been diagnosed with cancer and you want to know your own risk
- You are looking for a specialist for breast cancer, cervical cancer, or lung cancer in Gujarat
Dr. Ekta Vala Chandarana is a Medical Oncologist based at Medisquare Superspeciality Hospital on Drive In Road, Gurukul, Ahmedabad. She sees patients from across Gujarat — including Ahmedabad, Surat, Vadodara, Rajkot, and Gandhinagar. Appointments are available Monday to Saturday, 10 AM to 7 PM.
Consult Dr. Ekta Vala — Cancer Specialist in Ahmedabad
Dr. Ekta Vala Chandarana is a Medical Oncologist in Ahmedabad specialising in breast cancer, cervical cancer, and lung cancer. Serving patients from Ahmedabad, Surat, Vadodara, Gandhinagar and Rajkot.
- care@cancerimpact.in
- Medisquare Hospital, Gurukul, Ahmedabad
Frequently Asked Questions About Types of Cancer
Which type of cancer is most common in India?
Breast cancer is the most common cancer in Indian women, accounting for approximately 1 in 4 female cancer diagnoses. In men, oral cancer is the most common, largely due to widespread tobacco and betel nut use. Cervical cancer is the third most common cancer overall in India. In Ahmedabad and urban Gujarat, we are also seeing a rise in colorectal cancer and lung cancer among non-smokers.
Can cancer be completely cured?
Yes — many cancers are completely curable when detected early. Breast cancer at Stage 1 has a cure rate of over 95%. Cervical cancer at Stage 1 is highly curable with surgery. Oral cancer caught at Stage 1 or Stage 2 is very often cured completely. Even some advanced cancers — such as certain types of lymphoma and testicular cancer — have very high cure rates with modern treatment. The key is early detection and consulting the right specialist without delay.
Is cancer hereditary? Does family history mean I will get cancer?
Approximately 10 to 15 percent of cancers are linked to inherited gene mutations — most commonly BRCA1 and BRCA2 for breast and ovarian cancer, and Lynch syndrome for colorectal cancer. Having a family history increases your risk but does not mean you will definitely develop cancer. If two or more close relatives on the same side of the family have had the same type of cancer, especially at a young age, genetic testing and early screening may be recommended. Speak with an oncologist to understand your specific risk.
What is the difference between a benign tumour and a malignant tumour?
A benign tumour is a non-cancerous growth. It grows slowly, has clear borders, does not invade nearby tissue, and does not spread to other parts of the body. Most benign tumours are not life-threatening, though some may need to be removed if they press on nerves or organs. A malignant tumour is cancerous. It grows faster, can invade and destroy nearby tissue, and has the ability to spread (metastasise) to other organs through the blood or lymphatic system. When a doctor says ‘it is malignant,’ it means it is cancer and treatment must begin.
Which doctor should I consult for cancer in Ahmedabad?
You should consult a Medical Oncologist — a doctor who specialises in diagnosing and treating cancer using chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy. If surgery may be needed, a Surgical Oncologist is also involved. Dr. Ekta Vala Chandarana is a Medical Oncologist in Ahmedabad, based at Medisquare Superspeciality Hospital, Drive In Road, Gurukul. She specialises in breast cancer, cervical cancer, and lung cancer and sees patients from across Gujarat. You can book an appointment by calling or WhatsApp on +91 88668 43843.
How long does cancer treatment take?
The duration of cancer treatment depends on the type of cancer, its stage, and the treatment approach. Chemotherapy cycles typically run over 3 to 6 months, with each cycle lasting 2 to 4 weeks. Radiation therapy is usually given daily over 5 to 7 weeks. Surgery is a one-time procedure followed by recovery. Targeted therapy and immunotherapy may be given for a year or more in some cases. Dr. Ekta discusses the full treatment timeline with each patient individually at the first consultation.
Cancer is one of the most challenging diagnoses anyone can face. But it is important to know that cancer medicine has advanced enormously in the past decade. New treatments — targeted therapies, immunotherapy, precision medicine — are giving patients better outcomes with fewer side effects than ever before.
The most important step you can take is to act quickly. Do not wait and watch a symptom for months. Do not rely on home remedies or delay because of fear. The earlier cancer is caught, the more options you have and the better your chances of a complete recovery.
Dr. Ekta Vala and her team at Medisquare Superspeciality Hospital in Ahmedabad are here to guide you — from diagnosis through treatment and beyond. If you are in Gujarat and need an oncologist you can trust, we are a call away.