Understanding Heart Cancer: Symptoms and Causes Explained by Doctors

Cancer, a life-threatening disease, is widely known and recognized for its various forms. Often, when cancer is discussed, people tend to focus only on common types of cancer. However, have you ever heard of heart cancer? Let's delve into this topic with insights from Dr. Bimal Chhajer, former advisor at AIIMS and present time director at the SAAOL Heart Center, New Delhi.

What is Heart Cancer?

Dr. Bimal Chhajer explains that with the increasing risk of heart-related diseases nowadays, it's crucial to understand heart cancer. When cells in any part of the body start to grow uncontrollably, it's termed as cancer. Cases of heart cancer are quite rare worldwide, with only 1 or 2 patients out of 10 million being affected by it. This condition arises when cancerous tissues infiltrate the heart's cells, medically termed as heart cancer. Tumors develop within the heart's cells and gradually spread throughout them. Sometimes, lung cancer can also spread to the heart, leading to heart cancer.

Dr. Bimal Chhajer elucidates that cancer originating in the heart often belongs to the category of sarcoma, which affects soft tissues. Due to its proximity, cancer from any part of the body can spread to the heart via the bloodstream.

Why are there fewer cases?

Dr. Bimal Chhajer points out that unlike other organs, the cells in our heart do not proliferate rapidly, making heart cancer a rare occurrence. Even when there are growths in the heart, they often do not transform into cancer. Most of the lumps in the heart are termed as myxomas and are usually located on the left side of the heart.

Heart cancer is an ailment that doesn't affect many people, sometimes initiating due to the presence of a malignant tumor in the heart or when cancer spreads from other parts of the body. There are several primary reasons why someone might develop heart cancer.

Symptoms:

Heart cancer can manifest symptoms similar to other cardiac issues:

Chest pain, irregular heartbeat, difficulty breathing, and overall fatigue could indicate a problem with the heart. If breathing becomes difficult while performing routine tasks, it could be a sign of heart cancer.

Similar to other cancers, heart cancer is typically treated with chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgery.

To prevent heart or cancer-related illnesses, it's essential to maintain a healthy diet. Ensuring a balanced intake of vitamins and minerals in your diet is crucial to provide your body with all the necessary nutrients. Regular exercise is also essential to keep your heart strong, along with regular check-ups with your doctor every six months. Don't hesitate to inform your doctor if you notice any unusual growths or changes in your body.

In conclusion, while heart cancer remains a rare occurrence, it's vital to recognize its symptoms and causes. Consulting a healthcare professional for guidance and regular health check-ups can significantly contribute to early detection and effective management of this condition.