Facing cancer — or worried about a symptom — brings many questions. This guide explains warning signs, tests, treatment options and day-to-day care in plain language, and how our oncology team in Lucknow can help you and your family at every step.
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Cancer is not one disease, and no two patients are the same. At Charak Hospital, surgical, medical and radiation oncology specialists work together with radiology, pathology, critical care, nutrition, pain and rehabilitation teams — so your treatment plan is built around your cancer type, its stage, your overall health and what matters to you.
Open, laparoscopic and robotic-assisted cancer surgery with reconstruction.
Chemotherapy, immunotherapy, targeted and hormone therapy.
Equipped ICU and critical-care team available round the clock.
Pain management, nutrition, physiotherapy and counselling.
These signs are far more often caused by something other than cancer. But if one lasts more than 2–3 weeks, keeps getting worse, or has no clear reason, please get it examined — cancers found early are usually easier to treat.
In the breast, neck, armpit, groin, testicle or anywhere on the body — especially if painless and growing.
A sore that does not heal, white or red patches, or difficulty opening the mouth — particularly in tobacco or gutkha users.
Cough lasting over 3 weeks, blood in sputum, breathlessness or a change in voice.
Blood in stool, urine or cough; bleeding between periods, after intercourse or after menopause.
Losing weight without trying, loss of appetite, or tiredness that does not improve with rest.
Food sticking, persistent indigestion, heartburn, vomiting or a feeling of fullness after small meals.
Ongoing constipation or diarrhoea, thinner stools, frequent or difficult urination.
A mole that changes shape, size or colour, or a sore on the skin that does not heal; yellowing of eyes or skin.
Please don't wait and don't panic. A symptom on this list does not mean you have cancer. A simple examination, and sometimes a few tests, are usually enough to find the cause. If you are unsure, our team can guide you on which specialist to see.
Tap a cancer type to see its common symptoms, the tests used to diagnose it and how it is usually treated. Your own plan will depend on the stage and your health.
Painless lump in the breast or armpit, change in breast size or shape, skin dimpling, nipple pulling in, or blood-stained nipple discharge.
Clinical breast examination, mammography and/or ultrasound, core-needle biopsy, and receptor tests (ER, PR, HER2) that guide treatment.
Surgery (breast-conserving surgery or mastectomy, with oncoplastic reshaping or reconstruction by our plastic surgeons where suitable), chemotherapy, hormone therapy, HER2-targeted therapy and radiotherapy — often in combination.
Breast reconstruction after cancerMouth ulcer not healing in 2–3 weeks, white or red patches, reduced mouth opening, loose teeth, neck lump, voice change or difficulty swallowing.
Examination, biopsy of the lesion, CT or MRI of the head and neck, and endoscopy where needed.
Surgery to remove the tumour and affected lymph nodes, with reconstruction (including jaw/mandible reconstruction), followed by radiotherapy and/or chemotherapy when required.
Head, neck & oral cancer surgeryBleeding after intercourse, between periods or after menopause; foul-smelling discharge; pelvic pain. Early stages often have no symptoms.
Pap smear / HPV test / VIA screening, colposcopy and biopsy, and MRI or PET-CT for staging.
Early stages may be treated with surgery; more advanced stages are usually treated with chemoradiation. Pre-cancerous changes can be treated before they become cancer.
Gynaecological cancer surgeryCough lasting over 3 weeks, blood in sputum, chest pain, breathlessness, hoarseness, weight loss. Symptoms that do not improve with TB treatment need re-evaluation.
CT scan, biopsy (bronchoscopy or CT-guided), PET-CT for staging and molecular tests (such as EGFR, ALK, PD-L1) that open doors to targeted therapy or immunotherapy.
Surgery (including minimally invasive thoracoscopic surgery) for early stages; chemotherapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy and radiotherapy depending on stage and test results.
Thoracic surgical oncologyOften silent early. Later: pain in the upper right abdomen, jaundice (yellow eyes/skin), itching, loss of appetite and weight loss. Long-standing gallstones are a known risk factor.
Ultrasound, contrast CT or MRI, tumour markers (CA 19-9, CEA) and biopsy where appropriate.
Radical cholecystectomy (removal of gallbladder with part of the liver and lymph nodes) when operable, with chemotherapy before or after surgery; stenting and palliative care to relieve jaundice in advanced stages.
Meet our GI cancer surgeonFood sticking while swallowing, persistent indigestion, vomiting, black stools, anaemia, early fullness and weight loss.
Upper GI endoscopy with biopsy, CT scan, and PET-CT or endoscopic ultrasound for staging.
Chemotherapy and/or chemoradiation followed by surgery (oesophagectomy or gastrectomy) for operable cancers; stenting and nutritional support to improve swallowing in advanced disease.
Thoracoscopic & laparoscopic surgeryBlood in stool, change in bowel habits lasting weeks, feeling of incomplete emptying, abdominal pain, unexplained anaemia or weight loss.
Colonoscopy with biopsy, CT scan, MRI pelvis for rectal cancer, and CEA blood test.
Surgery (laparoscopic or open), with sphincter-preserving techniques where possible; chemotherapy and, for rectal cancer, radiotherapy before surgery.
Read more about colon & colorectal cancerJaundice, upper abdominal or back pain, loss of appetite, weight loss, new-onset diabetes in older adults, abdominal swelling.
Triple-phase CT or MRI, tumour markers (AFP, CA 19-9), endoscopic ultrasound and biopsy where needed.
Surgery (such as liver resection or Whipple's operation) for operable tumours, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and interventional radiology procedures in selected cases.
Read more about pancreatic cancerBlood in urine, frequent or weak urination, pain in the flank or lower back, bone pain in advanced prostate cancer. Early stages may cause no symptoms.
PSA test, ultrasound, MRI, CT urography, cystoscopy and biopsy.
Surgery including robotic-assisted options for selected patients, hormone therapy for prostate cancer, chemotherapy, immunotherapy and targeted therapy.
Urological cancer surgeryPersistent bloating, feeling full quickly, pelvic or abdominal pain, increased urination; any bleeding after menopause.
Pelvic ultrasound, CT or MRI, CA-125 blood test, and endometrial or tissue biopsy.
Staging or cytoreductive surgery (open, laparoscopic or robotic-assisted), chemotherapy — including intraperitoneal chemotherapy in selected cases — and targeted therapy.
Gynaecological cancer surgeryA lump in the front of the neck, hoarseness, difficulty swallowing. Most thyroid nodules are not cancer.
Thyroid ultrasound and fine-needle aspiration (FNAC).
Surgery to remove part or all of the thyroid, sometimes followed by radioactive iodine therapy and lifelong thyroid hormone tablets.
Head & neck surgeryNew or changing headaches (often worse in the morning), seizures, weakness or numbness, vision or speech problems, back pain with weakness in the legs.
MRI with contrast and, in most cases, a biopsy or surgical removal to confirm the tumour type.
Neurosurgery, radiotherapy and chemotherapy depending on the tumour type and grade.
Brain & spine tumour surgery Meet our neurosurgeonsA growing lump in the arm, leg or trunk; bone pain that is worse at night; swelling or fracture after minor injury.
X-ray and MRI, followed by a carefully planned biopsy — ideally done by the team that will treat the tumour.
Limb-conserving surgery with reconstruction, chemotherapy and radiotherapy according to tumour type.
Limb-conserving surgeryPersistent fatigue, frequent infections, unexplained fever, easy bruising or bleeding, swollen lymph nodes, bone pain.
Complete blood count, peripheral smear, bone marrow aspiration and biopsy, flow cytometry, lymph node biopsy and imaging.
Chemotherapy, targeted therapy and immunotherapy, managed together with our haematology and haemato-oncology team.
Haematology & haemato-oncologyA mole that is asymmetrical, has irregular borders, multiple colours, is larger than 6 mm or is changing; a sore or growth that bleeds and does not heal.
Skin examination and excision or punch biopsy.
Surgical removal with safe margins and reconstruction; immunotherapy or targeted therapy for advanced melanoma.
Plastic & reconstructive surgeryNo match found. Please call our cancer helpline on 99190 40000 — we will guide you.
A correct diagnosis is the foundation of good treatment. Most patients go through these steps, though not every test is needed for everyone.
Your history, symptoms, family history and a thorough physical examination.
Ultrasound, mammography, CT, MRI or PET-CT to see the size and spread of a growth.
A small tissue sample — the only way to confirm cancer. Usually a quick, low-risk procedure.
Histopathology, IHC and, when useful, genetic or molecular tests that guide targeted therapy.
All results are brought together to stage the cancer and agree the treatment plan with you.
The stage describes how large a cancer is and how far it has spread. Tap a stage to learn what it generally means — your doctor will explain your exact stage.
Tumour — size of the main tumour and whether it has grown into nearby tissue.
Nodes — whether cancer has reached nearby lymph nodes.
Metastasis — whether cancer has spread to distant organs.
Most patients receive more than one type of treatment. The aim may be to cure the cancer, to control it for as long as possible, or to relieve symptoms — your oncologist will explain which applies to you.
Surgery removes the tumour along with a margin of healthy tissue and, where needed, nearby lymph nodes. For many solid cancers detected early, surgery is the main curative treatment.
Open surgeryLaparoscopic & thoracoscopicRobotic-assistedOncoplastic & reconstructionMedicines that destroy or slow fast-dividing cancer cells. It may be given before surgery to shrink a tumour (neo-adjuvant), after surgery to reduce the chance of return (adjuvant), or as the main treatment.
Intravenous (drip)Oral tabletsIntrathecalIntraperitonealTreatments that help your own immune system recognise and attack cancer. Checkpoint inhibitors are used today in several cancers, such as lung, kidney, bladder, head and neck cancers and melanoma, when tests show they are likely to help.
Medicines that act on specific changes (mutations or proteins) in cancer cells — for example HER2 in breast cancer or EGFR and ALK in lung cancer. Many are tablets taken at home.
Some cancers — mainly breast, prostate and uterine cancers — grow in response to hormones. Hormone therapy blocks or lowers these hormones to slow or stop growth, often for several years.
High-energy radiation aimed precisely at the tumour. It may be used on its own, with chemotherapy (chemoradiation), after surgery to reduce the risk of recurrence, or to relieve pain and bleeding.
Palliative care focuses on comfort and quality of life — controlling pain, breathlessness, nausea and anxiety. It can be given alongside active cancer treatment, from the time of diagnosis, and is not only for the final stage of illness.
A full spectrum of cancer surgery — from minimally invasive procedures to complex resections with reconstruction — under one roof in Lucknow.
Systemic cancer treatment and related procedures, delivered under the supervision of our medical oncologists.
Knowing what comes next can make a difficult time a little easier.
Meet the oncologist, share your symptoms and any previous reports. Bring a family member if you can.
Only the tests you need — blood tests, imaging and biopsy — coordinated to save you repeated visits.
Results are explained in plain language: what the cancer is, where it is and how far it has spread.
Surgical and medical oncologists agree the best options; you receive the plan, the expected benefits and risks, and a cost estimate before you decide.
Surgery, chemotherapy or other treatment, with nursing, nutrition, pain and emotional support throughout.
Regular check-ups, scans when needed, rehabilitation and guidance on returning to work and daily life.
Side effects vary from person to person and most can be prevented or eased. Always follow the specific advice your care team gives you.
Take anti-sickness medicines exactly as prescribed — ideally before nausea starts. Eat small, frequent, bland meals; sip fluids through the day; avoid strong smells and oily food.
Very common and real. Balance rest with gentle activity such as short walks, which often helps more than complete bed rest. Accept help with household tasks. Tell your doctor if fatigue is sudden or severe — it may be due to anaemia.
Wash hands often, avoid crowds and people with infections, eat freshly cooked food and drink safe water. Check your temperature if you feel unwell. Fever during chemotherapy is an emergency — see the box alongside.
Not all treatments cause hair loss. When it happens it is usually temporary and hair regrows after treatment. A short haircut, a soft cap or scarf can help; protect the scalp from sun.
Use a soft toothbrush and rinse with a mild salt–soda mouthwash several times a day. Avoid spicy, very hot or acidic food, tobacco and alcohol. Tell your team if you cannot eat or drink.
Eat what you can, when you can — little and often. Add protein (dal, paneer, eggs, curd, soya) and energy-dense foods. Our dietitians can create a plan and advise on nutritional supplements.
Some medicines affect nerves, skin or nails. Keep skin moisturised, protect hands and feet, and report numbness, rashes or cracked skin early so that doses or supportive care can be adjusted.
Feeling worried or low is a normal response to cancer. Talking to family, your doctor or a counsellor helps. Please tell us if you feel persistently low, hopeless or unable to sleep — support is available.
Good treatment is about more than medicines and surgery.
Screening looks for cancer or pre-cancer in people without symptoms. The table below is general guidance; your doctor may advise differently based on your personal and family risk.
| Cancer | Who should consider screening | Test | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oral cancer | Adults 30+, especially tobacco, gutkha, areca-nut or alcohol users | Oral visual examination by a doctor or dentist | Quick and painless. Tobacco users should also check their mouth regularly in a mirror. |
| Breast cancer | Women 30+; mammography usually from 40 | Clinical breast examination; mammography / ultrasound | Know how your breasts normally look and feel. Strong family history? Ask about earlier screening and genetic counselling. |
| Cervical cancer | Women 25/30 to 65 | HPV test, Pap smear or VIA | Repeated every 3–5 years depending on the test. HPV vaccination is most effective at 9–14 years of age. |
| Colorectal cancer | Adults 45+, earlier with family history or bowel symptoms | Stool test (FIT) or colonoscopy | Colonoscopy can remove polyps before they turn into cancer. |
| Lung cancer | Adults 50–80 with a long history of heavy smoking | Low-dose CT scan | Discuss benefits and limits with your doctor first; TB and other lung conditions can cause false alarms. |
| Prostate cancer | Men 50+ (45+ with family history) | PSA blood test ± examination | Make an informed choice with your doctor — PSA testing has both benefits and limitations. |
| Liver cancer | People with cirrhosis or chronic hepatitis B / C | Ultrasound ± AFP every 6 months | Hepatitis B vaccination helps prevent liver cancer. |
Hover or tap a card to see the fact.
For almost all cancers this is not true. A biopsy is the only reliable way to confirm cancer and plan correct treatment. Delaying it is the bigger risk.
Many cancers can be cured, especially when found early, and many others can be controlled for years. Outcomes depend on type, stage and individual factors.
Cancer does not spread from person to person through touch, food or caring for someone. Patients need closeness and support, not isolation.
Side effects differ widely between drugs and people. Modern supportive medicines prevent or reduce many of them, and many patients continue daily activities.
No herbal remedy has been proven to cure cancer on its own. Some can interfere with treatment — always tell your oncologist about anything you take.
All cells use glucose; cutting out sugar completely does not starve a tumour. A balanced diet that keeps a healthy weight is what helps.
Medical, surgical and oral & head-neck oncologists, working with organ-specialist surgeons for urological, gastrointestinal and brain tumours, and with plastic surgeons for reconstruction.
BDS, MDS (Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery), Fellowship in Oral Oncology & Reconstructive Surgery (Gold Medalist)
Oral cavity & jaw cancers, head and neck oncological surgery, reconstruction, oral pre-cancer evaluation
MBBS, MD (Radiation Oncology), DrNB (Medical Oncology)
Chemotherapy, immunotherapy & targeted therapy for solid and blood cancers; bone marrow biopsy, intrathecal chemotherapy
MBBS, MS (General Surgery), M.Ch. (Surgical Oncology)
GI, head & neck, breast (with reconstruction), gynae & uro-oncology; bone & soft-tissue sarcoma with limb salvage; lung & liver resection
Surgery for kidney, bladder and prostate cancers — including laparoscopic and robotic-assisted options for selected patients — planned together with our oncologists.
MBBS, MS (General Surgery), M.Ch. (Urology)
Radical & partial nephrectomy for kidney tumours; TURBT, BCG therapy & radical cystectomy for bladder cancer; nerve-sparing radical prostatectomy
MBBS, MS (General Surgery), M.Ch. (Urology)
Laparoscopic & robotic-assisted radical prostatectomy; laparoscopic radical & partial nephrectomy; TURBT & radical cystectomy with urinary diversion
Surgery for cancers of the colon, rectum, pancreas, liver, gallbladder and bile ducts.
MBBS, MS, M.Ch. (Surgical Gastroenterology), FRCS (England), FACS, FICS, FASCRS · Former Professor, SGPGI
Colorectal cancer surgery with sphincter-saving techniques; Whipple procedure & pancreatic resection; liver, gallbladder & biliary cancer surgery
Our neurosurgeons treat brain and spinal tumours using microsurgical techniques with intraoperative navigation, working with the oncology team on any further treatment.
MBBS, MS, M.Ch. (Neurosurgery)
Microsurgical brain tumour removal with intraoperative navigation; spinal tumour & spine surgery
MBBS, MS, M.Ch. (Neurosurgery)
Microsurgical brain tumour removal with intraoperative navigation; spinal tumour & spine surgery
Our plastic and reconstructive surgeons work alongside the oncology team and regularly perform reconstruction after cancer surgery — restoring form and function through oncoplastic breast surgery, breast reconstruction, and flap reconstruction after tumour removal in the head, neck and limbs.
MBBS, DNB (Plastic Surgery), MNAMS, VFCS (Cosmetic Surgery)
Reconstructive surgery after cancer: flap reconstruction after tumour removal, microsurgery & free-flap transfer, oncoplastic breast reconstruction
MS, M.Ch.
Reconstructive surgery after cancer: oncoplastic breast reshaping & reconstruction, flap repair, symmetry surgery & scar correction
A second opinion is a normal, sensible step — especially before major surgery or when choosing between options.
Tick off as you collect them.
Cancer treatment costs vary with the type of cancer, its stage and the treatment chosen. We aim to keep you informed before every major step.
*Coverage depends on your scheme, policy terms and eligibility, which are confirmed at the insurance desk.
Ask our team: 99190 40000No. Most lumps, ulcers and coughs are caused by conditions other than cancer. But any symptom that lasts more than two to three weeks, keeps getting worse, or has no clear cause should be checked by a doctor so that cancer can be ruled out or found early.
For the vast majority of cancers, no. A biopsy is the only reliable way to confirm cancer and its type, and doctors use techniques that keep any risk extremely low. Delaying a biopsy is usually the greater risk.
Many cancers can be cured, especially when found early. Others can be controlled for long periods like a chronic illness. Your oncologist will explain the goal of treatment for your specific type and stage of cancer.
Yes, a second opinion is a normal and reasonable step, especially before major surgery or when choosing between treatment options. Bring all reports, imaging CDs and biopsy slides or blocks.
Most health insurance policies cover cancer treatment, and Charak Hospital accepts Ayushman Bharat (PM-JAY) for eligible patients. Coverage depends on your policy or scheme, so our insurance desk will check eligibility and give you a written estimate.
Chark hospital, Lucknow, has the best cancer surgeons who can perform all types of cancer surgeries. few of them are as follow;
The recovery time after cancer surgery can vary depending on various factors, such as the type and stage of cancer, the extent of the surgery, the age and overall health of the patient, and the type of follow-up care and rehabilitation provided. In general, it can take several weeks to months for full recovery after cancer surgery. During this time, the patient may require close monitoring and follow-up care by a medical professional to ensure proper healing and recovery. The medical team may also recommend lifestyle changes, such as changes to diet, exercise, and stress management, to help promote recovery and improve overall health.
In Charak Hospital, various types of cancer chemotherapy treatments are performed depending on the specific type and stage of cancer. Some common types of cancer chemotherapy used in Lucknow include:
1. Adjuvant Chemotherapy: This type of chemotherapy is administered after surgery or radiation therapy to kill any remaining cancer cells and reduce the risk of the cancer coming back.
2. Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy: This treatment is given before surgery or radiation therapy to shrink tumors and make them more manageable for surgical removal or radiation.
3. Palliative Chemotherapy: Palliative chemotherapy aims to control cancer growth, alleviate symptoms, and improve the quality of life for patients with advanced or metastatic cancer. It focuses on symptom relief and prolonging survival.
4. Combination Chemotherapy: Often, a combination of different chemotherapy drugs is used to maximize effectiveness and target cancer cells in multiple ways. Combination chemotherapy can offer improved outcomes compared to using a single drug.
5. Targeted Therapy: Targeted therapy utilizes medications that specifically target certain proteins or genetic mutations found in cancer cells. This type of treatment aims to disrupt specific cancer cell pathways while minimizing damage to healthy cells.
6. Immunotherapy: Immunotherapy boosts the body's immune system to recognize and destroy cancer cells. It can be used as a standalone treatment or in combination with other therapies.
The specific chemotherapy regimen prescribed depends on the type, stage, and characteristics of the cancer, as well as the individual patient's overall health and treatment goals. It is essential to consult with an oncologist who can provide personalized treatment plans based on individual circumstances.
Immunotherapy has shown promising results in the treatment of various types of cancer. While the effectiveness of immunotherapy can vary depending on individual cases, here are some cancer types where immunotherapy has demonstrated positive outcomes:
1. Melanoma: Immunotherapy has shown remarkable success in treating advanced melanoma, especially using immune checkpoint inhibitors such as pembrolizumab and nivolumab.
2. Lung Cancer: Immunotherapy has significantly improved the treatment landscape for non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Immune checkpoint inhibitors like pembrolizumab and atezolizumab have been approved for first-line and subsequent lines of treatment in NSCLC.
3. Bladder Cancer: Immune checkpoint inhibitors, such as pembrolizumab and atezolizumab, have been approved for the treatment of advanced bladder cancer that has progressed after chemotherapy.
4. Kidney Cancer: Immunotherapy targeting the immune checkpoint protein PD-1 has shown effectiveness in the treatment of advanced renal cell carcinoma, the most common form of kidney cancer.
5. Head and Neck Cancer: Immunotherapy, particularly with immune checkpoint inhibitors like pembrolizumab, has demonstrated promising results in certain cases of recurrent or metastatic head and neck squamous cell carcinoma.
6. Hodgkin's Lymphoma: Immunotherapy has been successful in the treatment of classical Hodgkin's lymphoma, with the use of checkpoint inhibitors such as pembrolizumab and nivolumab.
Chemotherapy, while an effective treatment for cancer, can be associated with certain potential side effects. The specific side effects and their severity can vary depending on the type of chemotherapy drugs used, the dosage, and individual factors. Some common potential side effects of chemotherapy include:
1. Fatigue: Many people experience fatigue during chemotherapy, which can range from mild to severe.
2. Nausea and vomiting: Chemotherapy drugs can cause nausea and vomiting, known as chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV). Anti-nausea medications can help manage this side effect.
3. Hair loss: Chemotherapy can lead to temporary or permanent hair loss, including scalp, facial, and body hair.
4. Anemia: Chemotherapy may decrease red blood cell count, leading to anemia and fatigue. Blood transfusions or medication can be used to manage anemia.
5. Bone marrow suppression: Chemotherapy drugs can suppress the production of blood cells in the bone marrow, increasing the risk of infections, bleeding, and fatigue.
6. Digestive system issues: Chemotherapy can cause diarrhea, constipation, or other gastrointestinal problems.
7. Neuropathy: Some chemotherapy drugs can damage nerves, causing numbness, tingling, or pain in the hands and feet (peripheral neuropathy).
8. Changes in appetite: Chemotherapy can lead to changes in appetite, taste alterations, and weight changes.
9. Increased risk of infection: Chemotherapy can weaken the immune system, increasing the risk of infections. Precautions such as avoiding crowds and practicing good hygiene are important.
10. Mood changes: Chemotherapy may cause mood swings, anxiety, or depression.
While these side effects can be challenging, many of them are manageable with medications, lifestyle adjustments, and supportive care. Healthcare providers can provide strategies and support to help minimize and cope with the side effects. It's crucial to communicate any concerns or side effects experienced during chemotherapy with your healthcare team, as they can provide appropriate interventions and support.
No matching term. Please ask your doctor — no question is too small.
Speak with our oncology team. We will help you understand your reports and plan the next step — calmly and clearly.
Medical information disclaimer: This page provides general health information for patients and families. It is not a substitute for a consultation, diagnosis or treatment by a qualified doctor. Treatment decisions depend on each patient's individual condition. In an emergency, call 0522-666-4444 or go to the nearest emergency department.
Content reviewed by: Department of Medical & Surgical Oncology, Charak Hospital & Research Centre · Last updated: October 2026
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Short talks by Charak Hospital doctors on symptoms, prevention and treatment. General information only — not a substitute for a consultation.
