Cancer

18 March 2025

Cancer is a condition where cells in a specific part of the body grow and reproduce uncontrollably. Cancer sometimes begins in one part of the body before spreading to other areas.

What is Cancer?

Cancer is a condition where cells grow uncontrollably and spread to other parts of the body. Normally, cells divide and grow in a controlled way, but cancer cells multiply without stopping, forming tumours that can interfere with organ function.

There are more than 200 types of cancer, each affecting different parts of the body. Some cancers grow slowly, while others spread aggressively and require urgent treatment.

Some Types of Cancers

Our hospital provides expert care and treatment for a range of cancers, including:

Gastrointestinal Cancers – Bowel cancer, stomach cancer, pancreatic cancer
Urological Cancers – Bladder cancer, prostate cancer, kidney cancer
Gynaecological Cancers – Ovarian cancer, cervical cancer, endometrial cancer
Breast Cancer – Screening, diagnostics, and advanced treatment options
Head & Neck Cancers – Throat cancer, oral cancer, thyroid cancer
Lung Cancer – Early detection and advanced lung cancer therapies
Blood Cancers – Leukaemia, lymphoma, multiple myeloma
Skin Cancer – Mole checks, melanoma diagnosis, and surgical removal

Potential Causes of Cancer

Cancer develops due to genetic mutations in cells. While the exact cause of these mutations isn’t always clear, several risk factors can increase your likelihood of developing cancer:

Genetic & Family History – Some cancers are inherited (e.g., breast, ovarian, colorectal cancer).
Lifestyle Factors – Smoking, alcohol consumption, and poor diet increase cancer risk.
Exposure to Carcinogens – UV radiation, chemicals, and asbestos can damage DNA.
Infections & Viruses – HPV, Hepatitis B & C, and H. pylori are linked to some cancers.
Hormonal Imbalances – Estrogen and testosterone levels can influence hormone-related cancers.
Chronic Inflammation – Conditions like ulcerative colitis and chronic infections may increase risk.
Weakened Immune System – People with autoimmune diseases or undergoing immunosuppressive therapy are at higher risk.

Signs & Symptoms of Cancer

Cancer symptoms vary depending on the type and location of the cancer, but general warning signs include:

Unexplained Weight Loss – Losing weight without trying may indicate cancer.
Persistent Fatigue – Ongoing tiredness despite rest can be a symptom.
Lumps or Swelling – Any new lump, especially in the breast or neck, should be checked.
Unusual Bleeding – Blood in urine, stools, coughing up blood, or postmenopausal bleeding.
Chronic Pain – Persistent pain in bones, joints, or organs.
Changes in Skin or Moles – Dark spots, sores that don’t heal, or rapid mole growth.
Difficulty Swallowing or Hoarseness – Could be linked to throat or oesophageal cancer.
Bowel or Bladder Changes – Persistent constipation, diarrhoea, or urinary difficulties.

Cancer Diagnosis & Screening

Early detection improves survival rates. We offer:

Advanced Imaging – MRI, CT scans, PET scans, and ultrasound
Endoscopic Procedures – Colonoscopy, gastroscopy, bronchoscopy for internal examinations
Biopsy & Pathology Services – Precise tissue analysis for accurate diagnosis
Genetic Testing – Identifying hereditary cancer risks
Comprehensive Health Checks – Cancer screening for high-risk individuals

Treatment Options

Surgery for Cancer

Minimally invasive procedures for early-stage cancers
Tumour removal & reconstructive surgery
Laparoscopic & robotic-assisted surgery for precision treatment

Chemotherapy & Targeted Therapies

Intravenous & oral chemotherapy to stop cancer cell growth
Immunotherapy & targeted drug treatments for personalised care
Hormone therapy for hormone-sensitive cancers (breast, prostate)

Radiation Therapy (Radiotherapy)

External beam radiation to destroy cancer cells
Brachytherapy (internal radiotherapy) for localised treatment
Stereotactic radiotherapy for high-precision targeting

Palliative & Supportive Care

Pain management & symptom relief for advanced cancer care
Nutritional & psychological support to improve quality of life
Personalised treatment plans for comfort and well-being

Monitoring and Follow-Up Care

What Does Cancer Follow-Up Involve?

Regular Check-Ups – Scheduled appointments with your oncology team to track progress.
Imaging & Blood Tests – Scans (MRI, CT, PET) and tumour marker tests to assess treatment response.
Managing Side Effects – Support for any lingering symptoms or treatment-related side effects.
Lifestyle & Nutritional Advice – Guidance on diet, exercise, and well-being to support recovery.
Psychological & Emotional Support – Access to counselling, support groups, and holistic care.
Early Detection of Recurrence – Close monitoring to catch any signs of cancer returning at the earliest stage.

How Often Are Follow-Ups Scheduled?

Follow-up frequency depends on the type of cancer and treatment received. Typical guidelines include:

Every 3-6 months for the first two years after treatment.
Every 6-12 months for the next three years.
Annual check-ups after five years for long-term monitoring.

If you experience new symptoms or concerns between appointments, our team is available for urgent reviews and additional testing.

Arranging To Visit A Private GP

To discuss any worrying symptoms that might be an indication of Cancer, then you can make an appointment with one of our private GPs. Appointments are available to everyone and can often be booked for the same day. There is no need to be registered with our Buckinghamshire hospital, or live locally.

If you have insurance which covers a GP visit, we can in most cases invoice the insurer directly. Where you are paying directly, the cost for a 30 minute consultation is £100.

Any additional costs will always be discussed. They could apply if you are referred for an MRI scan, or to a consultant, or for other agreed decisions to support your health.

Our Resident Private GP

Dr Chamali is welcoming and highly experienced. He offers his patients sound diagnosis and treatment, along with individual care focused on their future health.