According to studies, testicular cancer affects one out of every 250 males at some point in their lives. It’s a relatively rare cancer that tends to strike at a younger age, unlike most malignancies. The average age at which a person is diagnosed is 33. The good news is that the cure rate is relatively high, especially when detected early.

In this article, Dr. Sandeep Nayak, an experienced cancer specialist in Bangalore, India, talks about testicular cancer in young adults and its treatment options.

He is the Founder and Chief of Surgical Oncology at MACS Clinic, Bangalore, and Chairman – Oncology Services, Karnataka, India | Executive Director – Surgical Oncology and Robotic Surgery, KIMS Hospitals, Bangalore.

Testicular cancer is the most prevalent type of solid tumor in teenage and adult men between the ages of 13 and 40; however, it can strike at any age from childhood to adulthood. The good news is that majority of testicular malignancies can be cured.

The main risk factor is present from birth. Boys born with an undescended testicle are more likely to develop testicular cancer later in life.

“Even if an undescended testicle has been surgically addressed, the risk of developing testicular growths persists, and they should be regularly monitored,” Dr. Sandeep Nayak, one of the best oncologist in India, explains. “Men with a family history of the disease are likewise at a higher risk.”

Men in their early 20s and early 40s are more likely to develop testicular cancer. Dr. Sandeep Nayak adds that when men are younger, their testes produce more testosterone and sperm, increasing their risk of cancer. Caucasian males may also be at a higher risk than men of other races. 

A bump or lump on the testicle is generally the first sign of testicular cancer. The growth is normally painless, but it expands rapidly over a few weeks. It frequently results in a trip to the doctor.

Dr. Sandeep Nayak, an expert cancer specialist in Bangalore, states, “If a patient comes to us with an abnormal growth on their testicle, we’ll request an ultrasound to investigate it further.” “If that raises a suspicion of cancer, we run blood tests to look for tumor markers, which are cancer indications.”

When testicular cancer metastasis, it typically affects the liver, lymph nodes, and lungs. Imaging tests, such as a CT scan to look for enlarged lymph nodes in the abdomen and a scan or X-ray of the chest to look at the lungs, are other diagnostic procedures that the patient may have to undergo.

Removing the diseased testicle is the most common treatment for testicular cancer. According to Dr. Sandeep Nayak, the testicle is removed through a groin incision and submitted to a pathologist to evaluate whether additional treatment is required.

Most men heal within a week of surgery and are advised to avoid straining or lifting heavy things for up to six weeks.

Chemotherapy is usually indicated if the pathologist determines that further treatment is required owing to concerns about the cancer spreading.

The sooner the testicular cancer is diagnosed, like with most malignancies, the better the prognosis. The overall cure rate is high: more than 90% of males are cured.

Men who wish to start a family are sometimes anxious about how testicular cancer therapy would impact their fertility. According to Dr. Sandeep Nayak, the removal of one testicle should not harm fertility, although chemotherapy is a concern.

“You should be able to father children with a completely healthy testicle on the other side,” explains one of the best oncologist in Bangalore, “but additional treatment, such as chemotherapy, can be hazardous to your sperm.” “We talk to patients about sperm banking in advance in case they desire to have children in the future.” Further, he also offers testis-sparing surgery to suitable patients.

You must include a testicular exam in your annual health check-up, but you should contact your doctor immediately if you discover a lump between tests. Periodic self-examinations may be advised, particularly for men at a higher risk due to an undescended testicle.

“It’s a simple thing to detect if you check yourself on a regular basis, and it’s treatable cancer,” adds Dr. Sandeep Nayak. “So, even if you are someone who suffers from this, there’s a lot of hope.”

Less than two percent of people are at risk for kidney cancer which is mainly detected at the later stage. It is so because early-stage kidney cancer does not produce noticeable symptoms.

Kidneys are situated deep inside our body, so it is impossible to see or feel the small tumor during the physical exam. Only when it has grown big or has advanced to other nearby organs or lymph nodes, do symptoms develop, which are often mistaken for other minor conditions.

Dr. Sandeep Nayak, a prominent surgical oncologist in India, says, “A large number of kidney cancer are discovered when doing a diagnostic or imaging test for some other ailment.”

He further explains that if you smoke, are obese, or have come in contact with chemicals like benzene and asbestos, your risk for kidney cancer increases. Sometimes, it can run in the families.

Talk to your doctor if you think you are at high risk, and keep a lookout for symptoms. Early detection and timely treatment are the best way to fight cancer.

Dr. Sandeep Nayak is one of the best oncologist in India, practicing at KIMS Hospital, Bangalore. Till date, he has treated thousands of patients from India and worldwide in his career spanning more than 15 years.

The most common and early sign of kidney cancer is blood in the urine, making the urine appear pink, orange, or dark red. Sometimes the traces of blood are too few to notice with the naked eye. It may show up in the urine test.

Please remember blood in the urine does not always mean kidney cancer. It can also happen due to kidney stones or infections.

As cancer progresses, other symptoms are noticeable, such as:

• Unexplained weight loss
• Persistent pain in the side or lower back
• Fatigue
• Fever
• Lump or mass in the side or lower back
• Anemia
• Night sweats
• Loss of appetite
• High blood pressure
• Swelling in the ankles or legs
• Feeling overall sick

The kidneys help with the metabolic and digestive processes of the body. Cancer could hamper its functions by affecting its ability to break down, absorb, and dispose of food.

Dr. Sandeep Nayak stresses that you should not ignore any of the above symptoms. It could be related to other less serious medical problems, but proper diagnoses are necessary. Being vigilant is essential. Early-stage diagnoses of kidney cancer offer a better outcome.

As mentioned earlier, kidney cancer is often discovered during imaging or laboratory tests for other conditions.

For example:

Blood traces that are not visible to the naked eye may be detected during a routine urine test.

Kidney cancer can be found during a CT scan which may show a growth in the kidney in the 3D images taken at different angles. 

It may also show up during an MRI or an ultrasound of the kidney. If a dye is used, it can also differentiate between a cancer tumor and a noncancerous cyst.

If you notice any symptoms, you should discuss them with your doctor. He will perform a physical exam to check for a lump, and if need be, he may ask you to undergo a few tests.

Your doctor will refer you to a cancer specialist if he doubts you have kidney cancer.

To confirm the diagnosis, the oncologist may order some tests, including:

• Urine tests
• Blood tests
• Ultrasonography, CT scan, and MRI
• Biopsy

How to proceed forward?

If kidney cancer is detected, the cancer specialist will determine its stage and whether it has spread to other parts of the body. Dr. Sandeep Nayak, an experienced cancer specialist in Bangalore, states, “Staging is necessary as it helps us plan the right course of treatment for you.”

He further adds, “There are various treatments available to overcome kidney cancer and improve your long-term outlook. Medical science is making tremendous advancements in cancer treatments, and newer surgical modalities like robotics and laparoscopy are changing the way how surgery is performed.”

Your treatment will depend on many factors such as your age, overall health, the type of cancer you have, and its stage.

Surgery: 

Surgery is the primary treatment for most kidney cancers. The surgical oncologist will try to remove the tumor while preserving the kidney.

There are many types of kidney surgeries, including:

• Laparoscopic nephron-sparing surgery (LNSS)
• Laparoscopic radical nephrectomy (LRN)

Chemotherapy:

Powerful drugs are administered either through pills or intravenously to slow or stop cancer growth.

Radiation therapy:

High-energy radiation is given to shrink the tumor or eliminate the cancer cells.

Targeted therapy:

Specific medications are given to block the blood vessels and proteins required by kidney cancer to grow.

Immunotherapy:

 This treatment stimulates your immune system to fight the cancer cells and eliminate them.

Dr. Sandeep Nayak, one of the leading surgical oncologist in India, emphasizes the need to contact a doctor if you have any of the above symptoms to rule out any underlying cause and get timely treatment.

The news of stage 4 esophageal cancer in the family or friends can be quite heartbreaking. You are likely to have a lot of queries.

Dr. Sandeep Nayak, one of the best oncologists in Bangalore, has kindly and empathetically explained some aspects of surviving stage 4 of esophageal cancer. He starts by giving us an overview of the disease and progresses gradually to what to expect.

Esophageal cancer is a type of cancer that affects the esophagus- a tube that carries food from the mouth to the stomach. It is often diagnosed at a later stage due to the lack of early symptoms. Common symptoms of esophageal cancer may include:

• difficulty swallowing,
• weight loss,
• and chest pain.

There are several types of esophageal cancer, including squamous cell carcinoma and adenocarcinoma. 

Treatment options may include:

• Surgery
• Chemotherapy,
• Radiation therapy.

 The prognosis for esophageal cancer depends on the following:

• the stage of cancer,
• the location and size of the tumor,
• and the overall health of the patient, including the patient’s age.

In cancer staging, the number “4” refers to the fact that cancer has spread (metastasized) to other body parts. Stage 4 cancer is the most advanced cancer and is often considered incurable.

Cancer stage is determined by:

• the size of the primary tumor,
• the extent to which cancer has spread to nearby lymph nodes,
• and whether cancer has metastasized to other parts of the body.

This information is gathered through various diagnostic tests, including biopsies, imaging, and blood tests.

Several factors can affect the progression and prognosis of stage 4 esophageal cancer, including:

• the location and size of the tumor,
• the presence of lymph node involvement,
• and the patient’s overall health and age.

One of the most critical factors affecting the prognosis of stage 4 esophageal cancer is the patient’s age. As cancer progresses to stage 4, it becomes more challenging to treat, and the survival rate decreases. In general, older patients tend to have poorer prognosis than younger patients, as they may have other health problems that make treatment more difficult.

Another critical factor that can affect the prognosis of stage 4 esophageal cancer is the location and size of the tumor. Tumors that are located near the upper part of the esophagus tend to be easier to treat than tumors located near the lower part. Similarly, larger tumors are more challenging to treat than smaller tumors.

Lymph node involvement, also known as nodal metastasis, is also a crucial prognostic factor in esophageal cancer and it plays a vital role in determining treatment strategy and survival.

Overall, the treatment options for stage 4 esophageal cancer are limited and typically include a combination of chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgery. The prognosis for patients with stage 4 esophageal cancer is generally poor, with a five-year survival rate of around 5-10%.

A survival rate is a measure of how many people with a certain type of cancer are still alive a certain amount of time (usually five years) after their diagnosis. The survival rate is often given as a percentage.

“When I mentioned a 5-10% survival rate for stage 4 esophageal cancer, it means that, based on statistical data, of 100 people with stage 4 esophageal cancer, only between 5 and 10 of them will be alive five years after their diagnosis, given that standard treatment options are used.” Says Dr. Sandeep Nayak.

It is important to note that the survival rate is just a general estimation based on statistical data from a group of people, it does not apply to individuals, and an individual’s outcome may be different from the average. Many other factors, such as the patient’s general health, lifestyle, age, genetics, stage of cancer, and availability of new therapies, can affect the outcome. 

When the news of esophageal cancer and that too in its late stage, is given to a patient, one of the primary thoughts that every patient has is their chances given their age. 

“It’s difficult to give an exact survival rate for specific age groups, as many factors can affect a person’s prognosis. In general, however, younger patients tend to have a better prognosis than older patients, as they are typically in better overall health and are better able to tolerate treatments like chemotherapy and radiation therapy.”-Dr. Sandeep Nayak.

The National Cancer Institute’s Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) program does provide some data on survival rates by age group for esophageal cancer. Still, it’s important to note that these figures are based on data from a specific time period and may not represent current trends fully.

Esophageal cancer survival rate by age: Overall five-year survival rate for esophageal cancer is around 20%, but it varies by age group. For people younger than 55, the five-year survival rate is about 27%; for those 55 to 64, it’s about 17%; and for those 65 or older, it’s about 11%.

It’s worth noting that survival rate by age group can also be affected by different treatment options and the availability of specialized care and expertise in treating esophageal cancer in a particular area. It’s also important to note that the survival rate may not tell the whole story, the quality of life after treatment and survival is also paramount. It’s always best to consult with a doctor who can provide more specific information based on an individual’s diagnosis and treatment plan.

The survival rate data mentioned earlier is based on the survival of patients diagnosed with esophageal cancer.

Stage 4 esophageal cancer life expectancy without treatment: If stage 4 esophageal cancer is left untreated, it will continue to grow and spread, eventually leading to death. Life expectancy without treatment can be very low, depending on how advanced the cancer is, how aggressive it is, and how it affects the vital organs.

Stage 4 esophageal cancer life expectancy with treatment: Treatment for stage 4 esophageal cancer typically includes a combination of chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgery. While the prognosis for patients with stage 4 esophageal cancer is generally poor, with a five-year survival rate of around 5-10%, treatment can help to prolong life and improve the patient’s quality of life.

Optimal care for esophageal cancer is multidisciplinary and depends on the cancer stage, overall patient health, tumor location, and more. So, these survival rate data give a general view of people diagnosed with esophageal cancer regardless of the care they received.

Optimal care for esophageal cancer typically involves a team of specialists, including a surgical oncologist, medical oncologist, radiation oncologist, and gastroenterologist, working together to develop a personalized treatment plan. These specialists have specialized knowledge and experience in treating esophageal cancer and can often offer treatments and therapies that may not be available at other treatment centers.

 It’s important to note that the survival rate can be different for patients who received optimal care.

If a patient has access to these specialists and the most advanced therapies and treatment options, it’s more likely that the patient will have better chances of survival and better quality of life.

The treatment and palliative care for stage 4 esophageal cancer will typically involve a combination of different approaches, and the specific plan will depend on the patient’s situation.

Surgery is usually not considered a primary treatment option for stage 4 esophageal cancer, as cancer has already spread to distant locations. Surgery is considered palliative rather than curative in stage 4 esophageal cancer; it aims to relieve symptoms caused by the tumor, such as obstruction of the esophagus or swallowing difficulty. These surgeries include the removal of the affected portion of the esophagus and its reconstruction and removal of the affected lymph nodes.

Radiation therapy uses high-energy radiation to kill cancer cells. It can be used in combination with chemotherapy, prior or post-surgery, and as a palliative treatment to reduce symptoms caused by the tumor, like pain and bleeding.

Chemotherapy is a systemic treatment that uses drugs to kill cancer cells. It is often used in combination with radiation therapy and can be given before or after surgery. It can also be used as a palliative treatment to slow the tumor’s growth and reduce symptoms such as pain and difficulty swallowing.

Palliative care is an approach that focuses on providing comfort and support to patients and their families rather than treating cancer itself. It includes the management of symptoms such as pain, difficulty swallowing, fatigue, and emotional support. For example, if cancer has blocked the esophagus, a tube called a stent can be placed to open the passage and help in swallowing, which is a form of palliative care.

It’s important to note that while these are the most common treatment options, the specific treatment plan will depend on the individual patient’s diagnosis, overall health, and preferences, as well as the availability of specialized care and expertise in treating esophageal cancer. It’s always best to consult with a specialist who can provide more detailed and specific information based on an individual’s specific diagnosis and treatment plan.

Stage 4 esophageal cancer spread to lungs life expectancy: “If esophageal cancer spreads to the lungs or if there are complications such as tumor obstruction that affect lung function. It can lead to respiratory distress and decreased oxygen levels. In such cases, supplemental oxygen therapy may be considered. An oxygen concentrator can help improve oxygenation. Also helpful in symptoms such as shortness of breath and fatigue.”

Sometimes if cancer has spread to the lungs, the prognosis is generally worse. The survival rate for esophageal cancer patients with lung metastasis tends to be lower than those without lung metastasis. However, the outcome for an individual patient can vary widely based on many factors, such as the patient’s overall health, the location and size of the tumor, and the availability of specialized care and expertise in treating esophageal cancer.

It’s worth mentioning that the survival rate for esophageal cancer patients with lung metastasis tends to be lower than those without lung metastasis. But again, these figures are based on general statistical data, and the outcome for an individual patient can be quite different. It’s always important to talk to a specialist about the best treatment options for a patient with lung metastasis from esophageal cancer, as well as the expected outcomes and potential side effects of these treatments.

Thyroid cancer has been steadily rising across the world, with global estimates crossing 586,000 new cases annually. In India alone, thyroid cancer accounts for nearly 3–4% of all cancers, affecting people across different age groups. With improved diagnosis and treatment options, many patients recover well and lead fulfilling lives.

Dr. Sandeep Nayak, a distinguished thyroid cancer expert in Bangalore, India, says,

“RAI therapy has transformed thyroid cancer care. It allows us to target remaining thyroid tissue with precision, improving long-term outcomes. Over the years, I’ve seen patients regain confidence because this therapy helps prevent recurrence and supports safer recovery. It’s one of the strongest tools we rely on in thyroid cancer management.”

Radiation damages the DNA of cancer cells, ultimately stopping them from multiplying. Early in the 1900s, researchers found that cancer cells responded strongly to certain forms. By mid-century, doctors discovered that radioactive iodine could selectively destroy thyroid cells, an exciting moment that reshaped thyroid cancer treatment worldwide.

Dr. Abhilasha Sadhoo, a prominenthead and neck surgeon in Bangalore, shares, “The history of radiotherapy reminds us how innovation shaped modern cancer care. Each discovery opened the door to more precise treatments. In thyroid cancer, RAI stands out because it works with the body’s chemistry rather than against it. Many patients feel empowered knowing that progress in science directly supports their healing journey.”

Radioactive Iodine (RAI) Therapy is a targeted treatment commonly used for certain types of thyroid cancer, mainlypapillary and follicular cancers.

Dr. Nayak, a prominent surgical oncologist in Bangalore, shares,

“Radioactive Iodine (RAI) Therapy helps destroy leftover thyroid tissue or microscopic cancer cells that can’t be removed surgically. What makes this treatment unique is that thyroid cells naturally absorb iodine, allowing RAI to work only where it’s needed.”

Here’s how it works:

• Your thyroid cells naturally absorb iodine from your bloodstream.
• When you take RAI (usually as a capsule or liquid), the remaining thyroid cells, including any leftover cancer cells, absorb the radioactive iodine.

Once inside these cells, the radiation slowly destroys them from within, while the rest of your body stays largely unaffected because other tissues don’t take up iodine the same way.

Dr. Athira Ramakrishnan, an accomplished endoscopic skull base surgeon in Bangalore, explains, “RAI works because thyroid cells behave differently from other cells in the body. Their natural iodine uptake provides a safe pathway for delivering treatment. I’ve seen how effective RAI can be, especially when the dosage is tailored thoughtfully. Patients often feel reassured knowing the therapy works quietly inside the body without drastic discomfort.”

RAI therapy is a very targeted and efficient treatment option, especially after thyroid surgery, to clean up any remaining thyroid tissue. Its ability to target and safely destroy thyroid cells reduces the risk of recurrence and gives patients a strong chance of long-term recovery.

Dr. Sandeep Nayak concludes, “With growing awareness, improved technology, and supportive care, more patients experience smooth treatment journeys and better lives after radioactive iodine treatment.”

Dr. Sandeep Nayak and his team continue to guide patients with care and clarity through every stage of treatment atMACS Clinic, a dedicated facility for advanced Cancer Treatment in Bangalore. Their commitment to helping individuals navigate cancer has made a meaningful difference in how patients understand and approach their recovery.

References;

https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/procedures/radioactive-iodine-therapy

https://www.radiologyinfo.org/en/info/radioiodine

Disclaimer: The information shared in this content is for educational purposes only and not for promotional use.

Lung cancer remains one of the most widespread cancers worldwide, with close to 2.2 million new cases every year. In India alone, it ranks among the leading causes of cancer-related deaths, especially among men. The need for accurate treatment information is higher than ever.

Dr. Sandeep Nayak, a respected surgical oncologist in India, frequently emphasizes how radiotherapy has transformed lung cancer care: “Patients often underestimate how precise modern radiotherapy has become. The ability to target tumours without heavily affecting surrounding lung tissue has changed survival outcomes. Many people live longer and better because of timely radiation treatment.”

This page outlines techniques, benefits, risks, timelines, and when radiotherapy is typically recommended.

Doctors select the technique based on the tumour’s size, location, and the health of the surrounding lung tissue.

Here’s how the main types work:

External Beam Radiotherapy (EBRT)

This is the most common technique. An external device sends targeted beams to the tumour. It’s painless, noninvasive, and often used across different stages of lung cancer. EBRT has improved significantly over the years, thanks to imaging-guided tools that help doctors avoid healthy organs.

Brachytherapy

This involves placing a tiny radioactive source inside or very close to the tumour. It’s usually used when a tumour blocks the airway or causes bleeding. Because the radiation stays highly focused, brachytherapy may help relieve symptoms quickly.

Stereotactic Body Radiotherapy (SBRT)

Historically, radiotherapy was discovered more than a century ago when researchers observed that X-rays could shrink tumours. Over time, safer machines, imaging support, and advanced planning tools made it one of the most reliable treatments for lung cancer.

Dr. Sandeep Nayak, an acclaimed surgical oncologist based in Bangalore, explains, “Radiotherapy has shifted from broad, generalized beams to sharply defined radiation sculpting. Patients today receive far safer and more effective treatments. This shift has contributed significantly to better lung cancer radiotherapy success rates.”

Consultation and Planning

You’ll first meet the oncology team. Scans such as CT or PET help map the tumour. A personalized plan is created to ensure that radiation is delivered only to the required area.

Treatment Sessions

Sessions are usually short, lasting just a few minutes. You lie on a table while the machine moves around you. It doesn’t touch your body, and many patients say it feels like getting an X-ray.

Radiation Delivery

The machine delivers beams from different angles. You won’t feel the radiation, but you may hear soft buzzing sounds. Depending on the plan, treatment may continue for several days or weeks.

Dr. Nisha Vishnu, a seasoned Radiation Oncologist in Bangalore, adds, “People often worry about the experience, but modern radiotherapy is surprisingly smooth. Most patients tolerate it very well. The focus today is on comfort, speed, and accuracy, which helps reduce overall stress.”

Tumour control:

It helps shrink or destroy cancer cells, improving breathing and reducing symptoms like coughing or chest pain.

Non-invasive:

There’s no surgery involved, making it suitable for patients who cannot undergo an operation.

Precision:

Techniques such as SBRT help treat small tumours with remarkable accuracy.

Combination potential:

It is effective when used alongside surgery or chemotherapy to improve outcomes.

Fatigue:

Many patients feel tired during or after treatment.

Skin irritation:

The treated area may feel warm or sensitive.

Cough or mild breathing difficulty:

Radiation can temporarily inflame lung tissue.
Changes in swallowing or appetite: Especially if the radiation area is close to the food pipe.

Some older adults often ask how radiotherapy might affect them differently.

“What about radiation treatment for lung cancer? Are there elderly side effects?”

In many cases, the side effects remain manageable, but doctors prefer to monitor more closely to ensure breathing, energy levels, and appetite remain stable throughout the treatment period. With regular monitoring, most concerns can be addressed early and effectively.

Early-stage lung cancer:

Especially when surgery isn’t an option—SBRT is commonly used.

Locally advanced cancer:

It may be combined with chemotherapy to improve survival.

Palliative care:

Helps relieve pain, bleeding, or breathing problems.

Post-surgery:

Sometimes used to ensure no cancer cells remain.

Dr. Sandeep Nayak, an insightful surgical oncologist in Bangalore, says, “Choosing radiotherapy depends on tumour behaviour, overall health, and treatment goals. Some patients need tumour control, while others need symptom relief. Tailoring the plan to the individual always produces better outcomes.”

References;

https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/22298-stereotactic-body-radiation-therapy-sbrt

https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/about-cancer/lung-cancer/treatment/chemoradiotherapy/having-chemoradiotherapy

Disclaimer: The information shared in this content is for educational purposes only and not for promotional use.