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  • List of Cashless Network Hospitals in Perambalur

    by icicilombard 002 | Oct 17, 2023

    ICICI Lombard Health Insurance Cashless Network Hospital List in Perambalur, Tamil Nadu

    Explore ICICI Lombard’s health insurance plans :

    which offers people much needed financial backup during any medical emergencies.

  • How to Meet Out of Pocket Expenses with Daily Hospital Cash Plans?

    by Almog Ramrajkar | Oct 16, 2023

    Many people buy health insurance only to cover their hospitalisation cost. However, you must also consider other expenses when opting for a health cover.

     

    Out of Pocket Expenses

    Hospitalisation incurs several expenses that are outside the scope of hospital bills. There are certain non-admissible expenses like documentation charges, establishment charges, AC charges, attendant charges and many more, which the insurer doesn’t reimburse.

    Apart from these, there are other expenses related to eatables, dietary supplements and commuting of family members and relatives. Some policies even have a restriction of a certain percentage to be paid by the insurer and the remaining by the person insured from his own pocket.

     

    Daily Hospital Cash Plans: How They Work?

    Complete health insurance plans operate in a different manner than your regular Mediclaim plans. In a DHC plan, you get the reimbursement based on the number of days spent in the hospital irrespective of the hospitalisation expense. For instance, if someone spends 5 days in a hospital and his hospitalisation expense is ₹ 10,000 with a daily cash benefit of ₹ 1,000. Then, he will get both the ₹ 10,000 cover for medical expenses and ₹ 5,000 for 5 days spent in the hospital.

    The amount of daily expense varies with the sum insured. For instance, ICICI Lombard offers daily hospital cash on hospitalisation for a minimum period of 3 days and subject to a maximum of 10 consecutive days in the following manner:

    Policy Sum Insured (₹)

    Benefit Per Member (₹)

    2 Lac

    500 per day

    3 Lac/4 Lac/ 5 Lac

    1000 per day

    7 Lac/ 10 Lac

    2000 per day

    You can also claim your Mediclaim and DHC plans simultaneously. The actual pay-out in a DHC plan is also subjected to the nature of hospitalisation, and someone who is admitted in an ICU or had to undergo a major surgery is likely to get higher pay-outs which will further depend on the policy provider.

  • World Mosquito Day: What Everybody Ought To Know About Malaria & Dengue

    by Almog Ramrajkar | Oct 16, 2023

    World Mosquito Day is observed on 20th August every year to build awareness on various diseases transmitted by mosquitoes. The day is marked to honour Sir Ronald Ross, a British doctor, who first discovered in 1897 that female Anopheles mosquitoes spread malaria between humans. Since then, humankind has seen radical changes in the fight against malaria, dengue and other mosquito-borne diseases.

    Mosquito-borne diseases affect about 700 million people worldwide every year, leading to over a million deaths*. Awareness around symptoms and preventive measures is the need of the hour. How much do you know about the two most common mosquito-borne illnesses – malaria and dengue? Let’s take a look at their symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention measures.

     

    What is malaria?

    A potentially life-threatening disease, malaria is transmitted via the bite of a female Anopheles mosquito carrying the malarial parasite - Plasmodium. Once the parasite reaches your bloodstream, it moves into the liver to mature, post which it infects red blood cells. The parasite then multiplies, making the red cells burst open.

     

    What are the symptoms of malaria?

    If a mosquito infected by malaria bites you, symptoms will show up within 10 days to 4 weeks. Symptoms include –

    • High fever and chills
    • Headache
    • Nausea and vomiting
    • Profuse sweating
    • Stomach pain and diarrhoea
    • Muscle pain
    • Coma

    How is malaria diagnosed and treated?

    If you experience the above symptoms, your doctor may prescribe blood tests to check for malaria. If the diagnosis is positive, you’ll then be promptly required to take anti-malarial medication. Your malaria treatment can be at home or in the hospital, based on the degree of symptoms. It is crucial to complete the entire course of medicines so that the disease does not appear again, with even worse symptoms. If the symptoms are severe, such as persistent fever, continuous vomiting, convulsions, etc., the treating doctor would ask you to get admitted to the nearest hospital immediately.

     

    How can I prevent catching a malarial infection?

    As of today, there is no vaccine for malaria. The best way to prevent malaria is to ensure you keep yourself away from mosquitoes. If you live in an area where mosquitoes are common, use mosquito coils, vaporisers or nets while sleeping. Wear full-sleeved shirts and long pants while travelling to an area known to have a lot of mosquitoes. Also, use mosquito repellent on exposed skin.

     

    What is dengue?

    Dengue fever is a viral disease transmitted by the bite of an Aedes mosquito carrying the dengue virus. This viral infection shows flu-like symptoms and can be potentially lethal in severe cases. It is a leading cause of hospitalisation in Asian and Latin American regions.

  • Causes of Urethral Cancer

    by Almog Ramrajkar | Oct 16, 2023

    Urethral cancer is an ailment where cancerous cells develop in the delicate tissues of the urethra, a crucial tube responsible for transporting urine from the bladder to beyond the body's walls. Although it can occur in both genders, it is more likely to develop in males due to differences between the male and female anatomy. Despite its rarity, understanding this condition is essential for prevention, early detection and effective treatment. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the common causes of urethral cancer so that you or your loved one can make informed decisions regarding their preventative healthcare needs.

     

    How is Urethral Cancer Caused?

    Listed below are the main urethral cancer causes, along with its risk factors:

    1. History of Bladder Cancer: If you've had bladder cancer disease previously, you're more in danger of developing urethral cancer. This is because the bladder and urethra are connected and have a portion of similar sorts of cells.
    2. STDs: Sexually transmitted diseases, like human papillomavirus (HPV), can make it more likely for you to get urethral cancer. Among the types of HPV, one form called HPV type 16 is especially known for causing this cancer. It's essential to practice safe sex and get the HPV vaccination to reduce the possibility of this occurrence.
    3. UTIs: Regular UTIs (urinary tract infections) can provoke persistent irritation in your urethra, which could increase the risk of getting urethral cancer disease. That is why it's crucial to keep a healthy urinary system.
    4. Age and Gender: Urethral cancer is more normal in older adults and more often diagnosed in men than women.
    5. Chemical Exposure: In certain instances, heightened exposure to specific chemicals, such as those utilized within the textile or chemical sectors, has been associated with an elevated likelihood of developing urethral cancer.
    6. Tobacco and Smoking: Smoking, as with numerous other forms of cancer, can raise the likelihood of developing urethral cancer.
  • Causes of Small Intestine Cancer

    by icicilombard 002 | Oct 16, 2023

    A vital component of the digestive system, the small intestine performs a variety of functions, including producing hormones for digesting and housing immune cells that guard against mouth infections. Despite being uncommon, small intestinal cancer requires early detection and thorough management for improved patient outcomes. In order to properly handle this relatively uncommon malignancy and give people impacted the best care possible, it is imperative to know the exact cause of small intestine cancer. Read on to know more about the causes and risk factors of this condition.

     

    How is Small Intestine Cancer Caused?

    Let us explore how small bowel cancer develops and the elements that influence it in order to have a greater understanding of the causes of small intestine cancer:

    1. Genetic Alterations:
    • The root cause of small bowel cancer is genetic abnormalities.
    • The cells are forced to grow quickly as a result of these genetic alterations, eluding the normal cell cycle that would normally cause them to die.
    • This uncontrolled growth of cells plays a crucial role in the development of tumours and the spread of small bowel cancer, adding to its difficult and complex nature.
    1. Uncontrolled Growth:
    • Cancerous cells persist and multiply, whereas healthy cells normally experience programmed cell death.
    • A tumour could develop as a result of this unregulated proliferation's excessive cell accumulation.
    • Small bowel cancer is known for its rapid, uncontrolled cell development, which adds to the disease's difficult-to-treat and potentially invasive nature.
    1. Invasion and Spread:
    • The small intestine's healthy tissue may eventually become invaded with such unusual cells over time.
    • Additionally, they could separate from the primary tumour and spread via the lymphatic or circulatory systems to different parts of the body.
  • Causes of Duodenal Cancer

    by icicilombard 002 | Oct 16, 2023

    Every day, you make decisions in your life that affect your health, but did you know that something as small as what you eat can increase your risks for duodenal cancer? First, let’s take a look at some background information on this disease: Duodenal cancer refers to any form of malignancy occurring in the duodenum – the first part of the small intestine - which has multiple functions within digestion, including connecting the stomach and jejunum. In this article, we will explore some causes of duodenal cancer, giving you deeper insight into protective measures they might take.

     

    How is Duodenal Cancer Caused?

    The following reasons are usually found to be associated with duodenal cancer occurrence:

    • Diet: Diet is considered to play a significant role in eating food, specifically red meat, ultra-processed food, and smoked and cured food.
    • Bowel disease: Patients of any type of bowel disease that includes chronic inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), Crohn’s syndrome and others have more chances of developing duodenal cancer. Research has shown people with Crohn’s syndrome have 60% more chances to develop duodenal and other small bowel cancers.
    • Genetic mutations: Mutations associated with genetic diseases like nonpolyposis colorectal cancer (HNPCC), familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP), and Peutz-Jeghers syndrome predispose a person to duodenal cancer.
    • Celiac disease: Patients who suffer from long-standing celiac disease are at risk for developing duodenal cancer.
    • Family History: People with first-degree relatives having any form of small or large bowel cancer are at higher risk of developing duodenal cancer.
    • Lifestyle factors: People with an unhealthy lifestyle that includes regular smoking, alcohol consumption, a diet low in fresh fruit and vegetables and less physical activity. are at higher risk of developing duodenal cancer.
    • Benign polyps in the duodenum: Any type of non-cancerous benign growth in the duodenum may cause a higher chance of developing duodenal cancer.
    • Ulcer: You may be wondering, “Can duodenal ulcer cause cancer?”. Studies have shown that ulcers in the duodenum can lead to cancer, but this occurrence is very rare.
  • Causes of Rectal Cancer

    by icicilombard 002 | Oct 16, 2023

    Rectal cancer is a serious health condition that affects thousands of people every year. Rectal cancer originates in the rectum – the last part large intestine, which is several inches long and is directly linked to the anus through a narrow passage. While the exact causes of rectal cancer remain largely unknown, there are several risk factors and lifestyle habits which can increase your likelihood of developing it. In this article, we’ll be discussing the possible causes of rectal cancer in greater detail, including how certain environmental factors may increase your risk.

     

    How is Rectal Cancer Caused?

    Most cases of rectal cancer are sporadic, that is, the mutation of the gene that causes cancer formation is acquired and not inherited from parents. A small amount of patients (only around 10%) show inherited patterns of rectal cancer. There are also several genetic and environmental risk factors that increase the chances of rectal cancer. The following reasons are usually found to be associated with rectal cancer occurrence:

    • Genetic mutations - Mutations in the gene FAP (Familial Adenomatosis Polyposis) have been found to be associated with rectal cancer. Further mutation associated with genetic diseases like Lynch syndrome, i.e. hereditary non-polyposis colorectal cancer [HNPCC], has been found to cause rectal cancer. People with Lynch syndrome, another genetic disorder, show up to 80% risk of developing rectal cancer. People with a FAP mutation also show a 100% lifetime risk of developing rectal cancer if they leave the polyps in the colorectal region untreated.
    • Family history – People with a family history of colon cancer, adenomatous polyps, and polyps with villus are at a higher risk of getting rectal cancer.
    • Development of inflammatory bowel disease – Patients with inflammatory bowel disease or Crohn’s syndrome are more prone to developing rectal cancer.

     

    Other risk factors for developing rectal cancer include the following:

    • Age – The chances of getting rectal cancer increase with advancing age.
    • Unhealthy lifestyle – Following an unhealthy lifestyle with a non-nutritious diet, smoking, alcohol intake, and physical inactivity increases the risk of developing rectal cancer.
    • Lifestyle diseases – Diseases that occur due to a bad lifestyle, like diabetes and obesity, can also increase the chances of getting rectal cancer.
  • Common Causes of Spleen Cancer

    by icicilombard 002 | Oct 16, 2023

    Are you concerned about the potential causes of spleen cancer? While this type of cancer is relatively rare, understanding the different risk factors associated with it can help you keep an eye out for any changes or symptoms that might indicate something more serious. In this blog post, we'll explore some of the common causes and risk factors behind spleen cancer. Knowing what you're up against will put your mind at ease and give you a starting point as far as early detection goes. Keep reading to learn more – your health could depend on it!

    What causes spleen cancer?

    In most cases, spleen cancer is diagnosed as a secondary cancer, so it is important to focus on the stage of primary cancer and prevent spreading it up to the spleen. So, what causes spleen cancer? The following reasons are usually found to be associated with occurrence of primary splenic malignancy:

    • Hypersplenism – It refers to an overactive spleen that can lead to quick removal of blood cells so that the person may have very little amount of blood cells.
    • Splenic rupture – The spleen surface breaks, and it represents a medical emergency. It might occur due to any accident or a forceful blow on the abdomen. Sometimes, an enlarged spleen may also cause splenic rupture. Timely medical intervention allows a person to survive splenic rupture but makes him/her prone to frequent spleen infections and cancer.
    • Presence of splenic abscesses – Splenic abscesses due to other reasons might be a reason behind primary spleen cancer. It is frequently found in patients with underlying disorders such as:
      • Trauma
      • Infections
      • Recent surgery
      • Emboli
      • Immunosuppression
      • Hematologic malignancy
    • Presence of non-Hodgkin lymphoma – Primary splenic malignancy is a type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma that affects the lymphatic system.
    • Risk factors – Like male gender, advanced age, family history of lymphoma, frequent infections, weak immunity, and chronic hepatitis c infection.

    Causes of secondary spleen cancer –

    • Presence of other cancers - Cancers like leukaemia, lymphoma, breast cancer, melanoma and lung cancer are known to spread to the spleen and cause secondary spleen cancer.

    Risk factors of spleen cancer

    Various factors may increase the risk of developing spleen cancer:

    • Age: Older individuals are more susceptible to spleen cancer.
    • Gender: Males may have a slightly higher risk compared to females.
    • Immune System Disorders: Health issues that weaken the immune system can increase vulnerability.
    • Exposure to Certain Chemicals: Contact with specific industrial chemicals has higher risk.

    Can spleen cancer be prevented?

    While there's no guaranteed way to prevent spleen cancer, certain measures may reduce the risk:

    • Healthy Lifestyle: Balanced diet with regular exercise supports overall health.
    • Avoiding Harmful Chemicals: Limiting exposure to known carcinogens can decrease risk.
    • Regular Medical Check-ups: Routine health screenings can aid in the early detection of potential issues.

    To minimise health risks caused by spleen cancer and other medical issues, health insurance for senior citizens becomes a crucial step in battling illnesses in old age.

    Conclusion

    With early diagnosis, treatment of spleen cancer can be straightforward and successful. Surgical resection or splenectomy is often the go-to option, but there are other therapeutic choices available too. Remember, the key to effective cancer treatment lies in timely detection and intervention. Stay vigilant and listen to your body's warning signs. By understanding the causes of spleen cancer, you can even help prevent this condition. Also, ensure that you have a medical insurance plan in place to safeguard yourself against any financial stress.


    Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult your general physician or another certified medical professional for any questions regarding a medical condition. Relying on any information provided in this blog is solely at your own risk, and ICICI Lombard is not responsible for any effects or consequences resulting from the use of the information shared.

  • Causes of Lip Cancer

    by icicilombard 002 | Oct 16, 2023

    From sun exposure and smoking to environmental toxins, there are numerous potential causes of lip cancer. Unfortunately, there is no certain way to definitively determine the precise cause of any case of lip cancer—but there are known risk factors that could place someone at a higher chance of developing this potentially life-threatening illness. In this blog post, we’ll explore the various possible causes behind lip cancer so you can understand how best to protect yourself from it.

     

    How is Lip Cancer Caused?

    The most common causes of lip cancer, as well as associated risk factors, are mentioned below:

    • UV radiation exposure: Long-term exposure to sunlight has been found to be associated with lip cancer. People working in open sunlight for more than 25 years can develop lip cancer.
    • Ageing: Advancing age is also known to be a factor in lip cancer occurrence.
    • Genetics: Genetic diseases such as albinism that affect skin pigmentation increase the chances of getting lip cancer.
    • Fair-skinned people are more prone to developing lip cancer.
    • Other skin cancer: Patients with a history of nonmelanoma skin cancer (NMSC) can develop lip cancer.
    • Lifestyle factors: Frequent tobacco users include smoking cigarettes, cigars, pipes, or chewing tobacco, all of which can cause other forms of oral cancers and are also known to cause lip cancer.
    • HPV infection: Patients with oral herpes infection can develop lip cancer more commonly than a healthy person.
    • Ulcers: You may be wondering, “Does mouth ulcer cause cancer?”. Unusual mouth ulcers could be a warning sign of lip cancer. These ulcers, typically found on or under the tongue, can also occur on the lip or other areas of the mouth.
  • Causes of Squamous Cell Cancer

    by icicilombard 002 | Oct 16, 2023

    Squamous cell carcinoma is a form of skin cancer that starts on the skin as the growth of squamous present in the middle and outer layers of the skin. It usually occurs on areas of the body like the head, neck, chest, upper back, ears, lips, arms, legs, and hands damaged by exposure to UV rays present in the sun. If left untreated, it can spread to the nearby lymph nodes and even the tissues and bones, where it may become difficult to treat. Let us take a look at the main squamous cell carcinoma causes.

     

    How is Squamous Cell Cancer Caused?

    While we commonly associate this type of skin cancer with UV radiation from the sun, tanning lamps, and tanning beds, there's more to the story. Recent research reveals that DNA changes in skin cells can occur even in areas not typically exposed to sunlight. Other potential squamous cell carcinoma causes include:

    • Having skin that sunburns easily: Squamous cell carcinoma can occur in any type of skin colour, but it's more common in people who have low levels of melanin, which is a pigment that gives colour to the skin and also helps protect the skin from damaging ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Since people with white lack as much melanin as that of people with dark skin, they are more prone to developing this cancer.
    • Excess sun exposure: Exposure to UV radiation can lead to a person developing squamous cell carcinoma, a form of skin cancer. However, there are simple ways to reduce this risk. Keep your skin covered with clothes or sunblock.
    • People who smoke are prone to develop squamous cell carcinoma in their lip region.
    • Hazardous chemical exposure: If a person is constantly exposed to chemicals such as arsenic and cadmium, coal tar, paraffin and petroleum products used in mining, welding, farming and painting at their workplaces, they are at increased risk for getting squamous cell carcinoma.
    • Immunosuppression contributes to the development of squamous cell carcinoma, as in the case of organ transplant patients.
    • Severe burn scars and sores: Squamous cell carcinoma can develop more rapidly in the case of any severe burn scars, sores, or ulcers present in your body over many years.
    • History of skin cancer: If you've had squamous cell carcinoma of the skin once, you're at a significantly higher risk of getting it again.
  • Causes of Thyroid Cancer

    by icicilombard 002 | Oct 16, 2023

    Are you aware of the causes of thyroid cancer? It is an important question to ask, especially if you live in India, given that it is a very common form of cancer in the country. Recent studies have shown that exposure to radiation and certain chemicals may contribute to a person's risk. Understanding these potential factors is key to safeguarding your overall health. In this article, we will explore some common causes of thyroid cancer to understand this disease better.

    How is Thyroid Cancer Caused?

    Certain factors that can increase the chances of developing thyroid cancer include:

    • Toxic adenomas: If any sort of nodule or lumps of cell growth is seen in the thyroid gland, it is said to be a thyroid nodule, which upsets the body’s chemical balance by making thyroid hormones that can lead to a condition called goiter.
    • Thyroiditis: This is the inflammation of our thyroid gland, which is mostly painless and may appear post-delivering a baby in women, a condition known as postpartum thyroiditis. If in case the thyroid has not recovered, it may lead to hypothyroidism and later into the cancer stage. which is one of the common reasons for thyroid cancer.
    • Genetic mutation: Gene mutations (changes) that cause endocrine diseases like multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2A (MEN2A) or type 2B (MEN2B) syndrome can increase the risk of thyroid cancer
    • Low iodine intake can increase the chances of developing thyroid cancer.
    • Family history: If a first-degree female relative like a mother, sister, or daughter has any history of thyroid cancer, she is at a greater risk of getting thyroid cancer.
    • Being overweight or obese: A person who is obese is at increased risk for getting this cancer.
    • Radiation therapy: If a person has been treated with radiation therapy, like in the case of radiation therapy for neck and head regions related to a disease, then he/ she is at increased risk of developing thyroid cancer and exposure to radioactive material from nuclear weapons or a power plant accident can also makes a person more vulnerable to develop cancer.
  • Causes of Kidney Cancer

    by icicilombard 002 | Oct 16, 2023

    Have you ever stopped to wonder what the causes of kidney cancer are? Many people don't know much about this type of cancer or what factors contribute to its development. Kidney cancer can have a debilitating and life-altering effect on those affected by it—from both physical and psychological impacts. But what leads someone to develop kidney cancer, and how can one reduce their risk? In this article, we'll explore the potential causes of kidney cancer so that you may better understand your own individual risks and potential ways to prevent it.

     

    How is Kidney Cancer Caused?

    The exact reason for kidney cancer is not known, but certain factors have been studied which may increase the chances of getting the disease:

    • Smoking: a person who smokes has almost twice the risk of developing kidney cancer as compared to nonsmokers.
    • Hazardous places: If a person is getting exposure to chemicals such as arsenic and cadmium used in mining, welding, farming and painting at their workplaces, they are at increased risk for getting this disease.
    • Family history: If a first-degree female relative like a father, brother, or son has any history of kidney cancer, he is at a greater risk of getting kidney cancer.
    • Being overweight or obese: a person who is obese is at increased risk for getting this cancer.
    • High blood pressure: High blood pressure has been associated with an increased risk of kidney cancer.
    • Radiation therapy: If a person has been treated with radiation therapy, like in the case of women; if she is treated with radiation therapy for reproductive organs related to a disease, then she is at increased risk of developing kidney cancer
    • Gene Mutation: Genes contain genetic information that instructs cells to function. If any changes are seen in certain genes, then it can increase the risk of getting kidney cancer.
    • Long-term Dialysis Treatment: Dialysis is the medical process of filtering the blood by passing it through a machine called a dialyzer. The process of dialysis is done when a person’s kidneys aren’t functioning properly.
    • Tuberous sclerosis complex: Tuberous sclerosis is a disease that causes seizures and disabilities which can result in the formation of tumours in many different organs, including the kidney.
  • Causes of Bone Cancer

    by icicilombard 002 | Oct 16, 2023

    Bone cancer may sound like an uncommon diagnosis, but it claims more lives each year than many of us realize. With a higher incidence among young adults and children, bone cancer is something that deserves to be taken seriously – and understood more deeply. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about the common causes of bone cancer and its risk factors, which will ultimately help you better understand this condition so you can take better care of your health.

     

    How is Bone cancer caused?

    Cancer occurs when the cells in a certain area of the body divide and multiply too rapidly in an uncontrolled manner that results in the formation of a lump of tissue known as a tumour. Experts are not certain about the exact causes of bone cancer, but certain factors can increase the chances of developing the condition, including:

    • Receiving radiotherapy treatment in the past: If a person is exposed to high doses of radiation in the past during radiotherapy treatment, it may cause cancerous changes in the bone cells at a later stage, although the chances for this are very low.
    • Bone conditions: In some cases, non-cancerous or benign conditions affecting the bones may increase the chances of developing bone cancer, like a condition called Paget’s disease of the bone that is known to increase the chances of bone cancer development in people over 50 to 60 years of age.
    • Cancer treatment: A person is more likely to get a tumour in the bones if he had any treatment like stem cell transplants or received chemotherapy drugs to treat other types of cancers.
    • Rare genetic conditions: Some rare genetic conditions, such as Li-Fraumeni syndrome, cause tumours to grow in the bones, thus increasing the risk of getting bone cancer.
    • Other conditions: If a person is born with a rare form of eye cancer known as retinoblastoma, he may be more likely to develop bone cancer. This is because the same inherited faulty gene can be responsible for both retinoblastoma and later stages of bone cancer.
  • Causes of Breast Cancer

    by icicilombard 002 | Oct 16, 2023

    Breast cancer is perhaps the most commonly diagnosed cancer among women today, and its prevalence raises many fears among female patients. It’s often difficult to discern what exactly causes it, yet there are certain risk factors that could possibly lead to breast cancer in any woman—what you eat, your age when you have children and whether or not you were ever pregnant can all make a difference. In the next section, we will discuss the key causes of breast cancer so that all women may gain knowledge on how best to avoid developing it. Whether you're curious about your own risks or just looking for more information about this disease, read on!

    How is Breast cancer caused?

    The causes of breast cancer are many, but genetic mutations also play a major role in the occurrence of breast cancer. The genes that are responsible for the cause of breast cancer include breast cancer gene 1(BRCA1) and breast cancer gene 2 (BRCA2). The genes named TP53 and CHEK2 have also been seen to be associated with an increased risk of breast cancer. However, researchers have studied several other causes of breast cancer that may increase the chances of developing breast cancer. These include:

    • Exposure to oestrogen: The major cause of breast cancer almost everyone ignores is the female hormone oestrogen, which can activate the breast cancer cells and cause them to grow. This hormone is stimulated in the body when the ovaries, where the eggs are stored, begin to produce oestrogen at the start of puberty to regulate the menstrual cycle. A person is at risk of developing this cancer when the amount of oestrogen in the body increases up to a certain level than normal.
    • Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT): Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) has been studied to increase the risk of developing this cancer if the women take this therapy for a prolonged period, probably more than a year.
    • Women who are aged 50 or older are more at risk to get breast cancer than younger women.
    • Breast cancer can form in both males and females, but the maximum number of cases of breast cancer are reported in women
    • Personal history of cancer. The odds of developing this form of cancer could go up slightly if we have been diagnosed with cancer in the past.
    • Family history. If a first-degree female relative like a mother, sister, or daughter has any history of breast cancer, she is at a greater risk of getting breast cancer.
  • Causes of Uterine Cancer

    by icicilombard 002 | Oct 16, 2023

    Uterine cancer occurs when there is growth of abnormal cells in the uterus, and it is beyond control. Statistics reveal that 66,000 women in the US are most likely to get diagnosed with one of the types of uterine cancer.

    Uterine carcinoma has two subtypes — endometrial cancer and uterine sarcoma. Endometrial cancer starts in the uterus lining. It is responsible for almost 95% of all cases of uterine cancer. It is more common than uterine sarcoma, which tends to develop in muscle tissue (myometrium) and is uncommon.

    Here, we will discuss the causes of uterine cancer and the associated risk factors.

     

    How is uterine cancer caused?

    Causes of uterine cancer are many and may vary from individual to individual. Some of the causes are:

    • Age: This is directly related to an increased risk of developing uterine cancer. It usually occurs after menopause.

    • Family history: A family history of the disease is one of the significant causes of uterine cancer, particularly among individuals with conditions like Lynch syndrome and hereditary nonpolyposis colorectal cancer (HNPCC).
    • Increased number of menstrual cycles: Women who experience early menstruation, typically at 12, undergo more menstrual cycles throughout their lifetime, increasing their risk of developing uterine cancer.

    • Infertility: Obesity also contributes to the development of endometrial cancer. Fat in the body has the potential to alter hormonal levels, which ultimately affect the proper functioning of the body, leading to the development of several diseases and health problems.

    • Hormone therapy for breast cancer: Another major cause of uterine or endometrial cancer is the intake of Tamoxifen, a hormone therapy medication for breast cancer. People with breast cancer who take this hormone therapy medicine may be at risk of developing uterine cancer.
    • No pregnancy: Not being able to get pregnant even once can also be responsible for the development of uterine cancer in comparison to women who have had at least one pregnancy.

    • Other ovarian diseases: Women who suffer from one or the other forms of ovarian tumours tend to have increased oestrogen levels and low levels of progesterone, again known as one of the causes of uterine cancer.
    • Treatment for various health conditions: Radiation therapy used in the treatment of uterine cancer, Oestrogen Replacement Therapy, and hormone therapy for breast cancer treatment are some of the causes linked to the development of uterine cancer.

    • Polycystic ovarian syndrome: PCOS, or polycystic ovarian syndrome, is related to an imbalance in the hormone level of females, leading to excess production of oestrogen or androgen hormone and too little progesterone production. Too much oestrogen production and too little progesterone put females at risk of developing uterine cancer.

    • Endometrial hyperplasia: This is a condition that leads to the thickening of the uterus lining. It tends to occur when a build-up of cells and glandular structures leads to the thickening of the uterus. Although hyperplasia is not cancer, this condition may increase the chances of the development of uterine cancer.

    • Women with diabetes or high blood pressure: Women with type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure remain at an increased risk of developing uterine cancer.  
  • Causes of Bone Marrow Cancer

    by icicilombard 002 | Oct 13, 2023

    Bone marrow cancer occurs when cells within the bone marrow start to grow abnormally or excessively. The bone marrow is a vital part of the body’s blood-producing system. A combination of factors can affect it. This article explores the bone marrow cancer causes and risk factors associated with it, shedding light on potential contributors such as exposure to radiation, specific viruses, immune system suppression, genetic predispositions and prior cancer treatments.

    How is Bone Marrow Cancer Caused?

    Here are the leading causes of bone marrow cancer, including:

    • Exposure to atomic radiation, which can damage bone marrow cells.
    • Infection by specific viruses, including HIV, hepatitis, retroviruses and herpes viruses, can disrupt normal cell growth.
    • A compromised immune system or plasma disorder makes the body less capable of regulating cell growth.
    • Genetic conditions or a history of bone marrow cancer in the family can lead to bone marrow cancer. It indicates a hereditary predisposition.
    • Previous chemotherapy or radiation therapy may damage healthy bone marrow cells.
    • Lifestyle factors such as smoking and obesity potentially increase the risk.
    • Exposure to toxic chemicals found in solvents, fuels, cleaning products and agricultural items may contribute to developing bone marrow cancer.
  • Causes of Gallbladder Cancer

    by icicilombard 002 | Oct 13, 2023

    Gallbladder cancer is a rare but serious medical condition that affects thousands of people around the world. Gallbladder cancer affects the gall bladder – a small pouch-like organ located beneath the liver. It is usually rare but represents about 50% of total biliary tract cancer. While this type of cancer is not completely understood, research has revealed some potential causes of gallbladder cancer and its risk factors associated with increasing someone's chances of developing it - making understanding these key issues an important step for anyone wanting to learn more about this disease. In this article, we'll provide an overview of the possible causes of gall bladder cancer that can help reduce your risks of developing it.

     

    How is Gallbladder Cancer Caused?

    The exact causes of gallbladder cancer are not evident, but there are several known reasons and risk factors that contribute to the incidence of gallbladder cancer which are mentioned below:  

    • Gallbladder infection – Chronic infection and inflammation present one of the pre-requisite factors for gallbladder cancer. Areas with high infection rates of salmonella typhi and helicobacter have reportedly shown higher incidences of gall bladder cancer.
    • Gallbladder stones – The presence of gall stones (Cholelithiasis) is another important reason for the incidence of gallbladder cancer. The chances of getting cancer increase with the size and severity of gallstone symptoms.
    • Porcelain gallbladder – This is a case of the calcified gallbladder, which can significantly increase the chances of gallbladder cancer. Porcelain gallbladder can be a result of chronic cholelithiasis.
    • Gallbladder diseases – Other gallbladder diseases like polyps in the gallbladder, congenital biliary cysts, and abnormal pancreaticobiliary anatomy can increase the chances of gallbladder cancer incidence.
    • Family history – People with a family history of certain gallbladder diseases are prone to develop gallbladder cancer.
    • Carcinogen exposure – Exposure to some carcinogens either at the workplace or through the environment, can cause gallbladder cancer. Some carcinogens causing gall bladder cancers are methyldopa, methylcellulose, isoniazid, radon, etc.
    • Lifestyle factors – An unhealthy lifestyle and food habits are other known causes of gallbladder cancer. A diet low in fruits and vegetables and high in refined carbohydrates is responsible for gallbladder cancer. Smoking has also been found to be linked to gallbladder cancer.
    • Obesity – Obesity is another important reason for the incidence of gallbladder cancer.
  • 4 Ways Wearable Tech Is Changing the Landscape of Insurance and Healthcare Industries

    by iciclombard 01 | Oct 13, 2023

     Health insurers and caregivers are benefitting a lot from wearable technology.

    When the first Bluetooth headset was sold in 2000, very few would have imagined the ground-breaking impact wearable technology would have in the years to come. As the number of connected wearable devices all over the world is expected to jump from 325 million in 2016 to 830 million by 2020, every industry is banking on this technology to gain useful data insights on their customers.

    Wearable technology is proving to be a game-changer for the insurance and healthcare industry by offering them access to critical data. Let’s see four ways through which this technology is changing the landscape for insurers and healthcare providers.

    Prepare Competitive Insurance Rates

    Formulating competitive insurance rates require an in-depth knowledge about health conditions of consumers. Wearable technology gives insurers an idea about the physical health of an individual. It tells them about a person’s physical activities, heart rate, etc.

    Such information aids insurers in formulating competitive insurance rates. For caregivers, such information leads to better consultation.

    Rewards for Those Maintaining a Healthy Lifestyle

    Recently, insurance companies have started rewarding those who lead a healthy lifestyle. With the information obtained through wearable tech devices, insurers are offering perks not only in the form of lowering premiums, but also through prizes, gym reimbursements, etc.

    They are helping customers set milestones and are aptly rewarding them when these are met. Such rewards act as an encouragement for consumers to adopt healthy lifestyle habits creating a win-win situation for both the parties.

    Crafting Personalised Insurance Plans

    The changing preference of customers has made it imperative for insurers to come out with personalised insurance plans. With key metrics being captured by wearable technology, insurers can come out with personalised insurance plans.

  • List of Cashless Network Hospitals in Pattukkottai

    by iciclombard 01 | Oct 13, 2023

    ICICI Lombard Health Insurance Cashless Network Hospital List in Pattukkottai, Tamil Nadu

    Explore ICICI Lombard’s health insurance plans :

    which offers people much needed financial backup during any medical emergencies.

  • List of Cashless Network Hospitals in Ooty

    by iciclombard 01 | Oct 13, 2023

    ICICI Lombard Health Insurance Cashless Network Hospital List in Ooty, Tamil Nadu

    Explore ICICI Lombard’s health insurance plans :

    which offers people much needed financial backup during any medical emergencies.

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