Ayurvedic Name: Arbuda
Description:
Cancer in Ayurveda, is considered a complex condition arising from a deep imbalance in the body’s doshas, primarily aggravated Pitta and Kapha. It is characterized by abnormal cell growth and the formation of tumors. In Ayurveda, cancer is often seen as a result of Ama (toxins) accumulating in the body due to improper digestion (mandagni), which weakens the body’s natural immunity and leads to the formation of malignant cells. Pitta, the heat and metabolic force, becomes imbalanced, causing the body’s tissues to become overheated and overly acidic, leading to the development of tumors. Additionally, the Kapha dosha’s obstruction and heaviness contribute to the growth of tumors and its spread.
Signs & Symptoms:
Pravah Daurbalya (Weak Pulse): A weak or irregular pulse may occur due to the disruption in the circulatory system caused by the growth of tumors or metastasis.
Shwasa (Breathlessness): Difficulty breathing may arise as the tumors affect the lungs or block the airway passages.
Dourbalya (Weakness): General weakness and fatigue result from the body’s inability to fight abnormal cell growth and the depletion of energy due to the disease’s progression.
Rukshata (Dryness): Dryness in the mouth or skin may occur due to the body’s decreased ability to nourish tissues and impaired circulation, often exacerbated by chemotherapy or radiation treatments.
Anidra (Insomnia): Difficulty in sleeping may be linked to the physical and emotional stress caused by the disease, as well as the discomfort from tumor growth or the side effects of treatment.
Diagnosis:
Confirmed through imaging and biopsy.
Risk Factors:
1. Dietary Factors
High consumption of processed foods: Diets rich in preservatives, additives, and unhealthy fats can increase the risk of developing cancer.
Low intake of antioxidants: Insufficient intake of antioxidant-rich foods, like fruits and vegetables, can lead to cellular damage and increase cancer risk.
2. Lifestyle Factors
Physical inactivity: Lack of exercise can increase the risk of various cancers, particularly colorectal and breast cancer.
Smoking: Smoking is a leading cause of lung cancer and is also linked to cancers of the throat, mouth, pancreas, and bladder.
3. Medical Conditions
Chronic inflammation: Conditions like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) or chronic hepatitis can increase the risk of cancer due to prolonged inflammation.
Viral infections: Certain viral infections, like HPV (human papillomavirus) or hepatitis B and C, are linked to an increased risk of cervical, liver, and other cancers.
Complications:
Immune System Suppression (Vishada Daurbalya) – Cancer can weaken the immune system, making the body more vulnerable to infections and other diseases.
Metastasis (Vishama Vayu) – Cancer cells can spread to other parts of the body, leading to the growth of secondary tumors in organs like the lungs, liver, or bones.
Organ Dysfunction (Kosha Vikruti) – Tumor growth can affect the function of vital organs such as the liver, lungs, or kidneys, leading to organ failure.
Pain (Shoola) – Cancer can cause significant pain, particularly in advanced stages, due to tumor growth pressing on surrounding tissues or nerves.
Fatigue (Dourbalya) – Cancer treatments like chemotherapy or radiation can cause extreme fatigue, leading to decreased quality of life.
Epidemeology:
Affects approximately 20 million people worldwide each year, with the most common types being breast, lung, and colorectal cancer.
The risk increases significantly with age, with the majority of cancers occurring in individuals over the age of 50.
Higher incidence rates are found in developed countries due to lifestyle factors such as smoking, poor diet, and sedentary behavior.
Genetic predispositions and environmental exposures like carcinogens also contribute to cancer prevalence.