Types of Cancer – Complete A to Z Guide for Patients in India (2026)

This complete guide to types of cancer in India covers more than 50 cancer types from A to Z in simple language.

Cancer. The word itself can stop a conversation, change a family’s life, and set a person on one of the most difficult journeys they will ever face.

But cancer is not one disease. It is more than 100 different diseases — each with its own cause, its own behaviour, its own warning signs and its own treatment approach. A child diagnosed with neuroblastoma and an elderly man diagnosed with prostate cancer are both facing “cancer” — but they are facing completely different conditions requiring completely different medical teams and treatments.

This is why understanding the type of cancer matters so much. Because the right diagnosis leads to the right specialist, the right hospital and the right treatment — and that makes all the difference in outcomes.

This guide gives you a complete overview of all major cancer types — from A to Z — in simple, clear language. For each type, you will find a brief explanation of what it is, who it typically affects and what treatment involves. For detailed guides on specific cancers, we have linked to our comprehensive individual cancer posts throughout this page.

What Is Cancer?

Cancer begins when cells in any part of the body start to grow out of control. Normal cells grow, divide and die in an orderly way. Cancer cells keep growing and dividing — forming tumours, invading nearby tissues and sometimes spreading to distant organs through a process called metastasis.

According to the World Health Organization, cancer is the second leading cause of death globally — responsible for approximately 10 million deaths every year. In India, over 14 lakh new cancer cases are diagnosed annually, with numbers rising steadily.

The most common cancers in India are:

• Breast cancer (women)
• Cervical cancer (women)
• Oral cancer (men)
• Lung cancer (men)
• Colorectal cancer
• Stomach cancer

How Are Cancers Named and Classified?

Cancers are usually named after the organ or type of cell in which they originate:

• Carcinoma — cancer that begins in epithelial cells (skin or lining of organs). The most common type. Examples: breast carcinoma, lung carcinoma
• Sarcoma — cancer that begins in connective tissues (bone, muscle, fat, blood vessels). Examples: osteosarcoma, Ewing sarcoma
• Leukaemia — cancer that begins in blood-forming tissue (bone marrow). Causes large numbers of abnormal blood cells
• Lymphoma — cancer that begins in lymphocytes (immune system cells). Examples: Hodgkin’s lymphoma, Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma
• Myeloma — cancer that begins in plasma cells of the bone marrow
• Melanoma — cancer that begins in melanocytes (pigment-producing cells)
• Brain and spinal cord tumours — named by the type of cell and location

Complete A to Z Guide to Cancer Types

A

Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia (ALL)

ALL is the most common cancer in children — accounting for approximately 25% of all childhood cancers. It starts in the bone marrow where immature lymphoblasts (white blood cell precursors) multiply uncontrollably, crowding out healthy blood cells. Symptoms include fatigue, pale skin, frequent infections, easy bruising and bone pain. Treatment combines intensive chemotherapy, often with targeted therapy, and in some cases stem cell transplant. Modern treatment achieves cure rates of over 90% in children with ALL.

Acute Myeloid Leukaemia (AML)

AML is an aggressive cancer of the blood and bone marrow — more common in adults than children. Immature myeloid cells (another type of white blood cell precursor) grow uncontrollably. Symptoms include fatigue, breathlessness, frequent infections and unusual bleeding. AML progresses rapidly and requires immediate treatment with intensive chemotherapy, followed by stem cell transplant in high-risk cases.

Anal Cancer

Anal cancer develops in the tissues of the anus — the opening at the end of the digestive tract. It is strongly linked to HPV (Human Papillomavirus) infection — the same virus that causes cervical cancer. Most anal cancers are squamous cell carcinomas. Symptoms include bleeding from the back passage, itching, pain and a lump near the anus. Treatment typically combines chemotherapy and radiation therapy (chemoradiation) — surgery is reserved for cases where chemoradiation is not successful.

Appendix Cancer

Appendix cancer (also called appendiceal cancer) is a rare cancer that develops in the appendix — a small pouch attached to the large intestine. It is often discovered incidentally during surgery for appendicitis. The most common type is a carcinoid tumour (now called neuroendocrine tumour). Treatment typically involves surgery. In advanced cases, a specialised procedure called HIPEC (Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy) may be used.

B

Bile Duct Cancer (Cholangiocarcinoma)

Bile duct cancer develops in the bile ducts — the tubes that carry bile from the liver to the small intestine. It can develop inside the liver (intrahepatic) or outside it (extrahepatic). It is often diagnosed late because symptoms appear only when bile flow is blocked — causing jaundice, dark urine, pale stools and abdominal pain. It is linked to primary sclerosing cholangitis, liver flukes and chronic bile duct inflammation. Surgery is the primary curative treatment, with chemotherapy (Gemcitabine + Cisplatin) used in advanced disease.

Bladder Cancer

Bladder cancer develops in the cells lining the bladder — the organ that stores urine. Blood in the urine (haematuria) — sometimes visible and sometimes only detectable under the microscope — is the most important warning sign. It is more common in men than women and strongly associated with smoking. Most bladder cancers are transitional cell carcinomas. Treatment ranges from TURBT (endoscopic removal) for early-stage disease to radical cystectomy (bladder removal), chemotherapy and immunotherapy for advanced disease.

➡️ Read our detailed guide: Bladder Cancer – Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis & Treatment in Bangalore

Blood Cancer (Leukaemia)

Blood cancer is a broad term covering cancers of the blood, bone marrow and lymphatic system — including leukaemia, lymphoma and myeloma. Leukaemia specifically refers to cancers originating in blood-forming cells of the bone marrow. Symptoms include extreme fatigue, recurrent infections, unexplained bruising or bleeding, and enlarged lymph nodes. Treatment depends on the specific type — ranging from oral targeted therapy (for CML) to intensive chemotherapy and stem cell transplant (for AML and ALL).

Bone Cancer

Bone cancer refers to malignant tumours that develop in the cells of the bone. The most common types are osteosarcoma (most common in young people), Ewing sarcoma (second most common in children and adolescents) and chondrosarcoma (most common in adults). Persistent bone pain — especially pain at night — unexplained swelling near a bone, and pathological fractures (breaks from minimal trauma) are the key warning signs. Treatment typically combines chemotherapy and limb-sparing surgery.

➡️ Read our detailed guide: Bone Cancer – Symptoms, Causes, Types & Treatment in Bangalore

Brain Cancer

Brain cancer develops when malignant tumours form in the brain cells. The most common malignant brain tumour is glioblastoma multiforme (GBM). Symptoms depend on the tumour’s location but include persistent headaches (especially in the morning), seizures, vision changes, personality changes and cognitive difficulties. Treatment involves surgery, radiation therapy and chemotherapy — often in combination. Advanced techniques available in Bangalore include awake craniotomy, CyberKnife radiosurgery and CAR-T cell therapy at select centres.

➡️ Read our detailed guide: Brain Cancer – Symptoms, Causes, Treatment & Cost in Bangalore

Breast Cancer

Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in Indian women — accounting for 27% of all cancers in women. It develops when cells in the breast tissue undergo malignant changes. A lump in the breast, changes in breast shape, nipple discharge and skin dimpling are key warning signs. Modern treatment includes surgery (lumpectomy or mastectomy), chemotherapy, targeted therapy (particularly Herceptin for HER2-positive disease) and immunotherapy. Early detection through mammography is the single most powerful tool for improving survival.

➡️ Read our detailed guide: Breast Cancer – Symptoms, Causes, Stages & Treatment in Bangalore

Bronchial Tumour

Bronchial tumours develop in the bronchi — the main airways of the lungs. Most bronchial tumours are carcinoid tumours (now classified as neuroendocrine tumours) — which are typically slow-growing and often curable with surgery. Symptoms include wheezing, recurrent pneumonia, coughing up blood and shortness of breath. They account for 1-2% of all lung tumours.

C

Carcinoid Tumours (Neuroendocrine Tumours)

Carcinoid tumours are a type of slow-growing neuroendocrine tumour that most commonly develop in the gastrointestinal tract (stomach, small intestine, appendix, rectum) and the lungs. They produce hormones and can cause “carcinoid syndrome” — flushing, diarrhoea and wheezing. Many carcinoid tumours are discovered incidentally. Treatment includes surgery for localised disease, somatostatin analogues (Octreotide) for hormone control and targeted therapy for advanced disease.

Cervical Cancer

Cervical cancer develops in the cells of the cervix — the lower part of the uterus. It is the second most common cancer in Indian women. Persistent infection with high-risk HPV strains (particularly HPV 16 and 18) causes approximately 95% of all cervical cancers. Critically, cervical cancer is almost entirely preventable through HPV vaccination and regular Pap smear screening. Abnormal vaginal bleeding — between periods, after sex or after menopause — is the key warning sign. Treatment includes surgery for early stages and chemoradiation with brachytherapy for advanced disease.

➡️ Read our detailed guide: Cervical Cancer – Symptoms, Causes, Stages & Treatment in Bangalore

Colon Cancer

Colon cancer develops in the large intestine (colon). Along with rectal cancer, it is referred to as colorectal cancer — one of the most common cancers globally and increasingly common in urban India due to changing diet and lifestyle. Changes in bowel habits, blood in the stool, unexplained weight loss and abdominal discomfort are key warning signs. It is strongly linked to a diet low in fibre and high in red/processed meat, obesity and family history. Treatment includes surgery, chemotherapy and targeted therapy.

E

Endometrial Cancer (Uterine Cancer)

Endometrial cancer develops in the endometrium — the lining of the uterus. It is the most common gynaecological cancer in Western countries and increasingly common in India. Abnormal uterine bleeding — particularly after menopause — is the most important warning sign. Risk factors include obesity, diabetes, unopposed oestrogen exposure and Lynch syndrome. Because symptoms appear early (unusual bleeding), most cases are diagnosed at an early stage with good outcomes. Treatment is primarily surgery (hysterectomy), with radiation and chemotherapy added for advanced disease.

Esophageal Cancer

Esophageal cancer develops in the oesophagus — the muscular tube connecting the throat to the stomach. There are two main types: squamous cell carcinoma (more common in India, linked to smoking and alcohol) and adenocarcinoma (linked to acid reflux and obesity). Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia) — food getting stuck — is the hallmark symptom. It is often diagnosed late because symptoms appear only when the tumour is large enough to narrow the oesophagus significantly. Treatment combines surgery, chemotherapy and radiation therapy.

Ewing Sarcoma

Ewing sarcoma is a rare but aggressive cancer that typically develops in bones — particularly the pelvis, thigh bones and ribs — in children and young adults (ages 4-25). It can also develop in soft tissues around the bone. Persistent bone pain, swelling, fever and unexplained weight loss are key symptoms. Treatment combines intensive chemotherapy, surgery and radiation therapy. Modern treatment achieves good outcomes for localised disease (5-year survival 70-80%) but prognosis worsens significantly with metastasis.

Eye Cancer (Ocular Cancer)

Eye cancer can develop in various structures of the eye. The most common type in adults is uveal melanoma — a melanoma of the uvea (the middle layer of the eye). In children, the most important eye cancer is retinoblastoma — a genetic cancer of the retina. Symptoms include vision changes, floaters, a white reflection in the pupil (in retinoblastoma) and eye pain. Treatment depends on the type and location — options include surgery, radiation therapy (including plaque brachytherapy for uveal melanoma) and enucleation (removal of the eye) in severe cases.

F

Fallopian Tube Cancer

Fallopian tube cancer is a rare gynaecological cancer that develops in the fallopian tubes — the tubes connecting the ovaries to the uterus. It shares many features with ovarian cancer and is often diagnosed at an advanced stage. Symptoms include abnormal vaginal discharge or bleeding, pelvic pain and a palpable abdominal mass. Treatment follows the same principles as ovarian cancer — surgery (debulking) followed by platinum-based chemotherapy.

G

Gallbladder Cancer

Gallbladder cancer develops in the gallbladder — the small organ under the liver that stores bile. It is more common in women than men and in North India — particularly linked to chronic gallstones, gallbladder polyps and certain infections. Jaundice, abdominal pain (especially in the upper right area) and nausea are the main symptoms. Unfortunately, gallbladder cancer is often discovered incidentally during cholecystectomy (gallbladder removal) for stones — or at an advanced stage. Surgery is the only curative option; advanced disease is treated with Gemcitabine-based chemotherapy.

Gastrointestinal Cancer (GI Cancer)

Gastrointestinal cancer is an umbrella term covering cancers of the entire digestive tract — including the oesophagus, stomach, liver, pancreas, gallbladder, bile ducts, small intestine, colon, rectum and anus. GI cancers collectively represent one of the most common cancer groups in India. Each type has its own specific characteristics, symptoms and treatment — but common warning signs across GI cancers include unexplained weight loss, changes in bowel habits, blood in the stool, abdominal pain and difficulty swallowing.

H

Head and Neck Cancer

Head and neck cancers are a group of cancers that arise in the mouth (oral cavity), throat (pharynx), voice box (larynx), salivary glands, nose and sinuses. They are among the most common cancers in India — primarily due to tobacco use in all forms (smoking, chewing, gutka) and alcohol consumption. Oral cancer alone accounts for nearly 30% of all cancers in Indian men. Symptoms include persistent mouth ulcers, difficulty swallowing, hoarseness, a lump in the neck or jaw pain. Treatment typically combines surgery, radiation therapy and chemotherapy.

Hodgkin’s Lymphoma

Hodgkin’s lymphoma (HL) is a cancer of the lymphatic system — the network of vessels and nodes that form part of the immune system. It is characterised by the presence of Reed-Sternberg cells (abnormal large cells). HL is one of the most treatable cancers in oncology — with cure rates above 85% for early-stage disease. It typically presents as painless swelling of lymph nodes in the neck, armpit or groin, often accompanied by B symptoms (fever, night sweats, weight loss). Treatment combines chemotherapy (ABVD regimen) and radiation therapy.

K

Kidney Cancer (Renal Cell Carcinoma)

Kidney cancer most commonly develops as renal cell carcinoma (RCC) — arising in the cells lining the tubules of the kidney. It is more common in men and typically diagnosed in people over 60. The classic triad of symptoms — blood in urine, flank pain and a palpable mass — is now rarely seen together at diagnosis, as most kidney cancers are discovered incidentally on scans done for other reasons. Risk factors include smoking, obesity, high blood pressure and family history. Treatment for localised disease is surgery (nephrectomy or partial nephrectomy). Advanced disease is treated with targeted therapy and immunotherapy.

L

Liver Cancer

Liver cancer — most commonly hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) — is the sixth most common cancer globally and the third leading cause of cancer death. In India, it is strongly linked to chronic hepatitis B infection, cirrhosis and alcohol-related liver disease. The liver’s enormous reserve capacity means symptoms often appear late. TACE (transarterial chemoembolisation), surgical resection, liver transplantation, radiofrequency ablation and modern immunotherapy (Atezolizumab + Bevacizumab) are the main treatment options.

➡️ Read our detailed guide: Liver Cancer – Symptoms, Causes, Types & Treatment in Bangalore

Lung Cancer

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related death worldwide. In India, it accounts for a significant and growing proportion of cancer deaths — in both smokers and, increasingly, non-smokers exposed to severe air pollution. The two main types are Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC — 85%) and Small Cell Lung Cancer (SCLC — 15%). Persistent cough, coughing up blood, breathlessness and unexplained weight loss are key warning signs. Modern treatment includes targeted therapy for EGFR-mutated NSCLC, immunotherapy for PD-L1 positive disease, and surgery for early-stage disease.

➡️ Read our detailed guide: Lung Cancer – Symptoms, Causes, Types & Treatment in Bangalore

Lymphoma

Lymphoma is a cancer that begins in the lymphocytes — the white blood cells that are part of the immune system. There are two main categories: Hodgkin’s Lymphoma (HL) and Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma (NHL). Painless swelling of lymph nodes, fever, night sweats and unexplained weight loss are the classic symptoms. Treatment depends on the specific type and stage — ranging from chemotherapy and radiation for HL to targeted therapy, immunotherapy and CAR-T cell therapy for certain NHL subtypes.

M

Malignant Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is a rare and aggressive cancer that develops in the mesothelium — the thin protective lining covering the lungs (pleura), heart (pericardium) and abdominal organs (peritoneum). It is almost exclusively caused by asbestos exposure — often decades before the cancer develops. Pleural mesothelioma (affecting the lining of the lungs) is the most common form. Symptoms include chest pain, breathlessness and fluid around the lungs. It is extremely difficult to treat — surgery, chemotherapy (Pemetrexed + Cisplatin) and immunotherapy are used in various combinations.

Melanoma

Melanoma is the most dangerous form of skin cancer — developing in the melanocytes (pigment-producing cells). While less common in darker-skinned Indians than in fair-skinned Western populations, melanoma does occur in India — often in less sun-exposed areas like the soles of the feet, under the nails and in the mouth (mucosal melanoma). The ABCDE rule helps identify suspicious lesions: Asymmetry, Border irregularity, Colour variation, Diameter greater than 6mm, and Evolution (changing over time). Surgery is the primary treatment; advanced melanoma is treated with immunotherapy (checkpoint inhibitors) and targeted therapy (BRAF inhibitors).

Multiple Myeloma

Multiple myeloma is a cancer of plasma cells — the antibody-producing cells in the bone marrow. Cancerous plasma cells accumulate in the bone marrow and produce abnormal proteins (M-protein) that interfere with normal blood cell production. Bone pain (particularly in the spine and ribs), anaemia, kidney problems and recurrent infections are the key features. It is diagnosed through blood protein electrophoresis, bone marrow biopsy and imaging. Treatment includes proteasome inhibitors (Bortezomib), immunomodulatory drugs (Lenalidomide) and autologous stem cell transplant.

Myelodysplastic Syndrome (MDS)

MDS is a group of disorders in which the bone marrow does not produce enough healthy blood cells. It is sometimes called pre-leukaemia because it can progress to acute leukaemia. Symptoms include fatigue, anaemia, recurrent infections and unusual bleeding. MDS is more common in older adults. Treatment ranges from supportive care (blood transfusions, growth factors) to hypomethylating agents (Azacitidine, Decitabine) and stem cell transplant for younger patients with high-risk MDS.

N

Neuroblastoma

Neuroblastoma is a cancer that develops in immature nerve cells (neuroblasts) — almost exclusively affecting children, typically under 5 years of age. It most commonly arises in the adrenal glands (above the kidneys) but can also develop in nerve tissue in the neck, chest or abdomen. An abdominal mass, bone pain, weight loss and a bluish lump under the skin are characteristic features. Treatment depends on risk stratification — low-risk disease may resolve spontaneously or with minimal treatment, while high-risk disease requires intensive chemotherapy, surgery, radiation and immunotherapy (Dinutuximab).

Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma (NHL)

NHL is a diverse group of blood cancers that develop in the lymphatic system — distinct from Hodgkin’s lymphoma by the absence of Reed-Sternberg cells and a much wider variety of subtypes. There are over 60 different subtypes of NHL — ranging from slow-growing (indolent) types like follicular lymphoma to aggressive types like Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma (DLBCL). Painless swollen lymph nodes, abdominal swelling, fatigue and fever are common symptoms. Treatment depends on the subtype — chemotherapy (R-CHOP), targeted therapy (Rituximab), immunotherapy and CAR-T cell therapy for refractory disease.

O

Oral Cancer

Oral cancer develops in the mouth — including the lips, tongue, gums, floor of the mouth, cheeks and hard palate. India has one of the highest rates of oral cancer in the world — primarily because of the widespread habit of tobacco chewing (gutka, pan masala, betel nut), which is a powerful carcinogen. A non-healing mouth ulcer lasting more than 3 weeks, a white or red patch in the mouth, difficulty chewing or swallowing and jaw pain are key warning signs. Treatment combines surgery (wide excision) and radiation therapy, often with chemotherapy for advanced disease.

Osteosarcoma

Osteosarcoma is the most common primary bone cancer — arising in the osteoblasts (cells that form new bone). It most commonly affects children and young adults during growth spurts, typically around the knee, shoulder and hip. Persistent bone pain — especially at night — and swelling near a bone or joint are the main symptoms. Treatment combines neoadjuvant chemotherapy (before surgery) with limb-sparing surgery, followed by adjuvant chemotherapy.

Ovarian Cancer

Ovarian cancer develops in the ovaries — the female reproductive organs that produce eggs and hormones. It is often called the “silent cancer” because early symptoms are vague and easily dismissed. Bloating, pelvic pain, difficulty eating and urinary symptoms that are new and persistent are the key warning signs. Most ovarian cancers are epithelial ovarian cancers. Treatment combines surgery (debulking) with platinum-based chemotherapy (Carboplatin + Paclitaxel). BRCA1/2 testing is important — BRCA-mutated cancers respond well to PARP inhibitors (Olaparib, Niraparib).

P

Pancreatic Cancer

Pancreatic cancer develops in the pancreas — the gland behind the stomach that produces digestive enzymes and hormones including insulin. It is one of the most challenging cancers to treat because it is typically diagnosed at an advanced stage. Symptoms include jaundice (yellowing of skin), back pain, weight loss and new-onset diabetes. The most common type is pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). Surgery (Whipple procedure) is the only curative option — but only 15-20% of patients are eligible at diagnosis. Chemotherapy (FOLFIRINOX, Gemcitabine + Nab-paclitaxel) is used for advanced disease.

Parathyroid Cancer

Parathyroid cancer is an extremely rare cancer of the parathyroid glands — small glands behind the thyroid that regulate calcium levels. It causes hypercalcaemia (dangerously high blood calcium) leading to bone pain, kidney stones, excessive thirst and weakness. Surgery is the primary treatment. It accounts for less than 1% of all cases of primary hyperparathyroidism.

Penile Cancer

Penile cancer develops in the skin or tissues of the penis. It is more common in parts of Asia, Africa and South America than in Western countries. HPV infection and poor hygiene (particularly in uncircumcised men) are important risk factors. A persistent sore, ulcer or rash on the penis — or a lump that does not heal — should be evaluated promptly. Treatment depends on stage — from topical therapy and laser treatment for early lesions to surgery, radiation and chemotherapy for advanced disease.

Pituitary Tumour

Pituitary tumours develop in the pituitary gland — the “master gland” at the base of the brain that controls hormone production throughout the body. Most pituitary tumours are benign adenomas rather than true cancers. However, they cause significant problems by overproducing hormones or pressing on the optic nerve (causing vision loss). Symptoms depend on which hormones are affected — including acromegaly (from excess growth hormone), Cushing’s disease (from excess ACTH) and hyperprolactinaemia. Treatment includes medication (dopamine agonists), surgery (transsphenoidal surgery) and radiation therapy.

Prostate Cancer

Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men globally and increasingly common in urban India. It develops in the prostate gland — a walnut-sized gland below the bladder in men. Early prostate cancer often causes no symptoms — which is why PSA (Prostate Specific Antigen) blood test screening is important for men over 50. Advanced cancer causes difficulty urinating, weak urine flow, blood in urine or semen and bone pain. Treatment ranges from active surveillance for low-risk disease to surgery (radical prostatectomy), radiation therapy, hormone therapy and chemotherapy for advanced disease.

R

Rectal Cancer

Rectal cancer develops in the rectum — the final 12cm of the large intestine before the anus. Along with colon cancer, it forms colorectal cancer — one of the most common cancers globally. Blood in the stool, changes in bowel habits, a feeling of incomplete bowel emptying and rectal pain are the main symptoms. Colonoscopy is the gold standard diagnostic test. Treatment typically involves surgery, often combined with pre-operative chemoradiation to shrink the tumour and improve surgical outcomes.

S

Skin Cancer

Skin cancer is the most common cancer worldwide. The three main types are: Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC — most common, least dangerous), Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC — more aggressive) and Melanoma (least common but most dangerous). In India, skin cancer is less common than in fair-skinned populations but does occur — particularly in albinos and people with prolonged sun exposure. A changing mole, non-healing sore or new growth on the skin should be evaluated. Treatment ranges from simple excision for early BCC and SCC to surgery and immunotherapy for melanoma.

Small Intestine Cancer

Small intestine cancer is rare — accounting for less than 5% of all gastrointestinal cancers. The main types include adenocarcinoma, carcinoid tumours, gastrointestinal stromal tumours (GISTs) and lymphoma. Symptoms include abdominal pain, nausea, weight loss and blood in the stool — often vague and non-specific, leading to late diagnosis. Treatment depends on the specific type — surgery for adenocarcinoma and GISTs, targeted therapy (Imatinib) for GISTs, and chemotherapy for lymphoma.

Soft Tissue Sarcoma

Soft tissue sarcomas are a rare and diverse group of cancers that develop in the soft tissues of the body — muscles, fat, blood vessels, nerves and connective tissue. There are over 70 different subtypes. A painless, growing lump in the arm, leg or abdomen is the most common presentation. They are treated with surgery (wide excision) often combined with radiation therapy. Chemotherapy is used for metastatic disease and specific high-grade subtypes.

Stomach Cancer (Gastric Cancer)

Stomach cancer develops in the cells lining the stomach. It is more common in East Asia, Eastern Europe and parts of Latin America than in India — but remains a significant concern in certain Indian populations. H. pylori infection, smoking, high-salt diet and family history are important risk factors. Upper abdominal discomfort, bloating, early satiety (feeling full quickly), nausea and weight loss are key symptoms. Surgery (gastrectomy) is the primary treatment; advanced disease is managed with chemotherapy (FLOT, XELOX regimens) and targeted therapy (Trastuzumab for HER2-positive tumours).

T

Testicular Cancer

Testicular cancer is the most common cancer in young men aged 15-35. It develops in the testicles — the male reproductive organs that produce sperm and testosterone. A painless lump or swelling in a testicle is the most important warning sign — and should never be ignored or dismissed as a minor issue. The two main types are seminoma and non-seminoma germ cell tumours. Testicular cancer is one of the most treatable cancers in oncology — with cure rates above 95% for early-stage disease and good outcomes even for metastatic disease with chemotherapy (BEP regimen).

Throat Cancer

Throat cancer develops in the pharynx (throat) or larynx (voice box) — both part of the head and neck cancer group. Smoking and alcohol are the primary risk factors. HPV infection is increasingly linked to throat cancer, particularly oropharyngeal cancer (cancer of the tonsils and base of the tongue) — even in people who have never smoked. Persistent sore throat, hoarseness lasting more than 2 weeks, difficulty swallowing and a lump in the neck are key warning signs. Treatment combines surgery, radiation therapy and chemotherapy.

Thyroid Cancer

Thyroid cancer develops in the thyroid gland — the butterfly-shaped gland at the base of the neck that regulates metabolism. It is one of the most common cancers in young women and has seen a significant increase in India in recent years. The main types are papillary thyroid cancer (most common — 80%, excellent prognosis), follicular thyroid cancer, medullary thyroid cancer and anaplastic thyroid cancer (rare, aggressive). A painless lump in the neck is the most common presentation. Most thyroid cancers are highly treatable — surgery (thyroidectomy) followed by radioactive iodine therapy achieves cure rates above 95% for papillary and follicular types.

U

Urethral Cancer

Urethral cancer is a rare cancer that develops in the urethra — the tube that carries urine from the bladder out of the body. It is more common in women than men. Blood in the urine, difficulty urinating and a lump in the genital area are the main symptoms. Treatment depends on the location and stage — options include surgery, radiation therapy and chemotherapy.

V

Vaginal Cancer

Vaginal cancer is a rare cancer that develops in the vagina — the muscular canal connecting the uterus to the external genitalia. Most vaginal cancers are squamous cell carcinomas and are linked to HPV infection and a history of cervical cancer. Abnormal vaginal bleeding (particularly after intercourse or after menopause) and vaginal discharge are key symptoms. Treatment combines surgery and radiation therapy, often with concurrent chemotherapy.

Vulvar Cancer

Vulvar cancer develops in the external female genitalia (vulva). It is more common in older women and is linked to HPV infection, lichen sclerosus and smoking. Persistent itching, a lump or thickening of the vulvar skin, and bleeding are the key warning signs. Treatment is primarily surgical (wide local excision or vulvectomy) with radiation therapy for advanced disease.

W

Wilms Tumour (Nephroblastoma)

Wilms tumour is the most common kidney cancer in children — almost exclusively affecting children under 6 years of age. It typically presents as a painless abdominal mass — a parent often notices the child’s tummy looks or feels larger than normal. Most cases are diagnosed at Stage 1 or 2 with excellent outcomes. Treatment combines surgery (nephrectomy), chemotherapy and radiation therapy for high-stage disease. Modern treatment achieves overall survival rates above 90%.

Cancer Prevention — What You Can Do Right Now

While not all cancers are preventable, the following steps significantly reduce risk:

Cancer Screening — Who Should Get Screened and When

How Doctor Visit Bangalore Can Help

Doctor Visit Bangalore connects patients across India — and international patients — with the right cancer specialist at the right hospital in Bangalore for every type of cancer listed in this guide.

We help you:

✅ Identify the right oncologist — surgical, medical or radiation — for your specific cancer type
✅ Get a second medical opinion before committing to any treatment plan
✅ Compare hospitals and costs transparently
✅ Book confirmed appointments quickly — no long waiting
✅ Arrange molecular testing and genetic counselling
✅ Full support for international patients — visa, airport pickup, accommodation
✅ 24/7 WhatsApp support throughout your treatment journey

📞 Call / WhatsApp: +91 78920 28951 🌐 www.doctorvisitbangalore.com

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How many types of cancer are there? There are more than 100 different types of cancer. This guide covers the 53 most clinically significant types — from the most common (breast, lung, colorectal) to rarer forms (Wilms tumour, parathyroid cancer, urethral cancer).

Q: Which cancer is most common in India? In women, breast cancer is the most common, followed by cervical cancer. In men, oral cancer is the most common in India — primarily due to tobacco chewing — followed by lung cancer and colorectal cancer.

Q: Which cancer has the highest survival rate? Thyroid cancer (papillary type), testicular cancer and certain skin cancers have 5-year survival rates above 95% when detected early. Hodgkin’s lymphoma and early-stage breast cancer also have excellent survival rates with modern treatment.

Q: Which cancer is most difficult to treat? Pancreatic cancer, glioblastoma (brain), malignant mesothelioma and anaplastic thyroid cancer are among the most challenging to treat due to late diagnosis and limited treatment options.

Q: Can cancer be prevented? Many cancers can be prevented or the risk significantly reduced through lifestyle changes, vaccination (HPV, Hepatitis B) and regular screening. Stopping tobacco use alone could prevent approximately 40% of all cancer cases in India.

Q: How do I find the right cancer specialist in Bangalore? Doctor Visit Bangalore can identify the right specialist — surgical oncologist, medical oncologist or radiation oncologist — for your specific cancer type and connect you with the most experienced team in Bangalore. Call or WhatsApp us at +91 78920 28951.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Please consult a qualified oncologist for diagnosis and treatment of any cancer.

Arman Ali

Arman Ali is the founder of Doctor Visit Bangalore, a trusted healthcare navigation platform helping patients find verified doctors, hospitals, and specialists across Bangalore and all over in India. With hands-on experience in healthcare research and patient assistance, Arman has personally helped hundreds of domestic and international patients connect with leading hospitals including Apollo, Manipal, Fortis, and Aster. His content is grounded in real hospital data, treatment cost research, and direct coordination with medical professionals across Bangalore. He specializes in medical tourism guidance, treatment cost transparency, and specialist discovery for complex conditions including cancer, cardiac surgery, and orthopedic care.