Cancer and Tumour Treatment for Bangladeshi Patients Worldwide

Understanding General Cancer and Tumours

What is Cancer?

Cancer is a condition where some of the body's cells grow uncontrollably and spread to other parts of the body. Normally, cells grow and divide as needed. But in cancer, this process breaks down, leading to abnormal growths called tumours.

What is a Tumour?

A tumour is an abnormal mass of tissue resulting from excessive cell growth. Under normal circumstances, cells grow, divide, and die in a controlled manner. However, when this process is disrupted, cells can proliferate uncontrollably, forming a tumour. Tumours can be classified as:

• Benign Tumours: These are non-cancerous growths that typically remain localised and do not spread to other parts of the body. They are usually not life-threatening and can often be removed surgically.
• Malignant Tumours: These are cancerous and consist of abnormal cells that divide rapidly and can invade surrounding tissues. These tumours spread (metastasise) to other parts of the body through the bloodstream or lymphatic system, posing health risks.

Why Do People Need Treatment for Cancer and Tumours?

People need treatment for cancer and tumours to remove or destroy cancer cells, stop the disease from spreading, and reduce the risk of it coming back. Treatment can also help relieve symptoms like pain or swelling and improve overall quality of life. In many cases, it helps patients live longer, even if the cancer cannot be fully cured.

Causes of Cancer and Tumours

Cancer and tumours can happen due to several factors:

• Genetic Factors like inherited mutations and family history of cancer
• Lifestyle Factors like smoking, tobacco, unhealthy diet, alcohol, and obesity
• Environmental Exposures such as radiation and exposure to chemicals
• Infections like HPV, Hepatitis B or C, Helicobacter pylori
• Hormonal Imbalance or Weak Immunity
• Ageing as DNA damage build up over time

Type of Cancer by Location or Organ

Cancer can affect almost every part of the body. Identifying them early increases the chances of successful treatment. Symptoms vary depending on the tumour’s location. Below are some of the most commonly diagnosed types of cancer and the organs they affect, with links to detailed guides on symptoms, diagnosis, treatment options, and patient support.

How to Recognise a Tumour in the Head?

Head tumours, especially brain tumours, can affect thinking, movement, and basic body functions. Common symptoms of a brain tumour include:

• Persistent headaches that worsen over time or are worse in the morning
  
• Nausea or vomiting not related to digestion
  
• Vision problems like blurred or double vision
  
• Seizures or unusual movements
  
• Difficulty with balance or coordination
  
• Confusion, memory loss, or personality changes
  
• Hearing loss (if the tumour is near the ear or auditory nerves)
  
• Speech difficulties or trouble understanding language

Does a brain stroke mean a tumour?

No, a brain stroke and a brain tumour are not the same. They are entirely different medical conditions, though some of their symptoms may overlap.

Key Differences are as follows:

Explore the detailed Brain Tumour treatment abroad, including cost and hospitals

Abdominal Tumour

An abdominal tumour can develop in different organs, such as the stomach, liver, kidneys, colon, spleen, appendix, or ovaries. The early symptoms of an abdominal tumour are not noticeable. However, as it grows, certain signs may appear depending on its location, whether it's a tumour on the right side of the abdomen or a tumour on the left side of the abdomen.

Common early symptoms of an abdominal tumour include:

• Persistent abdominal pain or discomfort - may be localised to the right or left side
  
• Unexplained bloating or swelling
  
• Feeling of heaviness or a visible lump
  
• Loss of appetite or early fullness
  
• Unintentional weight loss
  
• Changes in bowel habits - such as constipation or diarrhoea
  
• Fatigue or general weakness
  
• Nausea or vomiting
  
• Urinary changes - if the tumour affects the kidneys

These symptoms vary depending on the organ involved. For example:

• A tumour on the right side of the abdomen may affect the liver, right kidney, right colon, or appendix.
  
• A tumour on the left side of the abdomen may involve the spleen, left kidney, left colon, or ovaries in women.

Explore the detailed Abdominal Tumour treatment abroad, including cost and hospitals

Tumour in the Anal Passage

Tumours in the anal passage, also called anal cancer, affect the end part of the gastrointestinal tract. Early detection is important, but often difficult due to overlapping symptoms with other anorectal conditions like piles.

Common signs include:

• Bleeding from the anus (often mistaken for piles)
  
• A lump or mass near the anal opening
  
• Pain or pressure in the anal region
  
• Itching or discharge from the anus
  
• Change in bowel habits or stool shape

Explore the detailed Anal Tumour treatment abroad, including cost and hospitals

Lung Cancer

Lung cancer occurs when abnormal cells grow uncontrollably in the lungs, forming tumours.

Causes of lung cancer:

• Smoking (primary cause)
  
• Air pollution
  
• Family history

Symptoms of lung cancer:

• Persistent cough
  
• Chest pain
  
• Breathlessness
  
• Coughing up blood

Lung cancer treatment depends on the stage and may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, or targeted therapy.

Explore the detailed Lung cancer Treatment abroad, including cost and hospitals

Breast Cancer

Breast cancer happens when abnormal breast cells grow uncontrollably and form a tumour.

Causes of breast cancer:

• Genetic factors (e.g. BRCA mutations)
  
• Hormonal changes
  
• Obesity

Symptoms of breast cancer:

• Lump in the breast
  
• Nipple discharge
  
• Changes in breast shape or skin
  
• Pain in the breast or armpit

Explore the detailed Breast Cancer Treatment abroad, including cost and hospitals

Prostate Cancer

Prostate cancer starts in the prostate gland and can grow slowly or spread to other areas.

Causes of prostate cancer:

• Ageing
  
• Family history
  
• High-fat diet

Symptoms of prostate cancer:

• Difficulty urinating
  
• Frequent urge to urinate at night
  
• Weak urine flow
  
• Blood in urine or semen

Explore the detailed Prostate Cancer abroad, including cost and hospitals

Bone Cancer

Bone cancer begins when abnormal cells grow in the bone, forming a tumour.

Causes of bone cancer:

• Genetic conditions
  
• Previous radiation therapy
  
• Unknown factors

Symptoms of bone cancer:

• Persistent bone pain
  
• Swelling or tenderness near the tumour
  
• Increased risk of fractures

Explore the detailed Bone Cancer Treatment abroad, including cost and hospitals

Colorectal Cancer

Colorectal cancer starts in the colon or rectum, often from polyps that become cancerous over time.

Causes of colorectal cancer:

• Low-fibre, high-fat diet
  
• Family history
  
• Smoking
  
• Inflammatory bowel disease

Symptoms of colorectal cancer:

• Blood in the stool
  
• Changes in bowel habits
  
• Abdominal pain
  
• Unexplained weight loss

Explore the detailed Colorectal cancer treatment abroad, including cost and hospitals

Cervical Cancer

Cervical cancer begins in the cervix, usually due to long-term infection with high-risk types of HPV.

Causes of cervical cancer:

• Persistent HPV infection
  
• Early sexual activity
  
• Multiple sexual partners
  
• Smoking

Symptoms of cervical cancer:

• Abnormal vaginal bleeding
  
• Pelvic pain
  
• Unusual vaginal discharge

Explore the detailed Cervical Cancer Treatment abroad, including cost and hospitals

Liver Cancer

Liver cancer starts in the liver cells and can grow aggressively or spread to other parts of the body.

Causes of liver cancer:

• Chronic hepatitis B or C infection
  
• Heavy alcohol use
  
• Fatty liver disease

Symptoms of liver cancer:

• Upper abdominal pain
  
• Unexplained weight loss
  
• Jaundice (yellowing of skin and eyes)
  
• Abdominal swelling

Explore the detailed Liver Cancer Treatment abroad, including cost and hospitals

Blood Cancer

Blood cancer affects the blood, bone marrow, or lymphatic system, causing abnormal blood cell production.

Causes of blood cancer:

• Genetic mutations
  
• Radiation exposure
  
• Certain infections (like Epstein-Barr virus)
  
• Weakened immune system

Symptoms of blood cancer:

• Frequent infections
  
• Unexplained weight loss
  
• Fatigue and weakness
  
• Easy bruising or bleeding
  
• Swollen lymph nodes

Explore the detailed Blood Cancer Treatment abroad, including cost and hospitals

Kidney Cancer

Kidney cancer starts in the kidneys when abnormal cells grow uncontrollably, forming a tumour.

Causes of kidney cancer:

• Smoking
  
• High blood pressure
  
• Obesity
  
• Family history

Symptoms of kidney cancer:

• Blood in the urine
  
• Lower back pain (on one side)
  
• Unexplained weight loss
  
• Fatigue
  
• Persistent fever

Explore the detailed Kidney Cancer Treatment abroad, including cost and hospitals

Throat Cancer

Throat cancer develops in the throat (pharynx or larynx) when abnormal cells grow and form tumours, potentially affecting speech and swallowing.

Causes of throat cancer:

• Smoking and tobacco use
  
• Heavy alcohol consumption
  
• HPV infection
  
• Poor oral hygiene

Symptoms of throat cancer:

• Persistent sore throat
  
• Hoarseness or voice changes
  
• Difficulty swallowing
  
• Lump in the neck
  
• Unexplained weight loss

Explore the detailed Throat Cancer Treatment abroad, including cost and hospitals

When Do These Symptoms Lead to Treatment?

Symptoms of cancer and tumours should never be ignored. Early treatment improves survival chances and can prevent the tumour from spreading. 

Doctors may start treatment after:

• Physical examination to check for visible lumps or pain
  
• Biopsy to confirm if a growth is cancerous
  
• Imaging tests like CT scan, MRI, or PET scan to find the tumour size and location
  
• Blood tests to detect tumour markers or abnormal cell growth

How long can one live if diagnosed with Cancer?

The survival time after a cancer diagnosis can vary widely depending on several key factors. 

1. Type of Cancer

Some cancers grow slowly and respond well to treatment, while others progress quickly.

• Highly treatable cancers:
  
  • Thyroid, testicular, prostate, and early-stage breast cancer often have high survival rates.
    
  • Many patients with these types can live 5 to 20+ years or more with proper treatment.
    
• Aggressive cancers:
  
  • Pancreatic, lung, or brain cancers may progress faster and have lower survival rates, especially if diagnosed late.

2. Stage at Diagnosis

• Early-stage cancer (Stage I or II): Often curable or manageable long-term with surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation.
  
• Late-stage cancer (Stage III or IV): May still be treated, but prognosis depends on how much the cancer has spread.

3. Treatment and Response

• Some cancers go into remission (no signs of disease).
  
• Others may become chronic but manageable, like leukaemia or lymphoma.
  
• Advanced treatments (targeted therapy, immunotherapy) have extended life for many patients, even with stage IV cancer.

4. Overall Health and Age

• Younger, healthier patients often tolerate treatment better and may live longer.
  
• Patients with other medical conditions may face more complications.

Survival varies widely depending on cancer type, stage, treatment, and individual health. Always consult an oncologist for a personalised prognosis.

Ways to Prevent/ Survive Cancer

While not all cancers can be prevented, certain lifestyle choices and medical interventions can lower the risk. Early detection and proper treatment significantly increase the chances of survival.

Prevention Tips

• Avoid Tobacco: Quitting tobacco is advised as it is linked to several cancers.
  
• Eat a Balanced Diet: Focus on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein. Limit red meat, processed foods, and excess sugar.
  
• Maintain a Healthy Weight: Obesity increases the risk of cancers like breast, colon, and kidney cancer.
  
• Stay Physically Active: Regular exercise (at least 30 minutes a day) helps regulate hormones and boost immunity.
  
• Limit Alcohol Intake: Alcohol is linked to several cancers, including liver, breast, and oesophageal cancers.
  
• Get Vaccinated: Vaccines like HPV (for cervical cancer) and Hepatitis B (for liver cancer) can offer protection.
  
• Protect Yourself from the Sun: Use sunscreen and avoid tanning beds to reduce the risk of skin cancer.
  
• Regular Screenings: Mammograms, colonoscopies, Pap smears, and PSA tests can detect cancer early when it's most treatable.

Lifestyle changes may reduce cancer risk, but do not guarantee prevention. A regular medical check-up is essential for early detection and management.

Survival Strategies After Diagnosis

• Early Detection Saves Lives: When caught early, many cancers are treatable and even curable.
  
• Follow the Treatment Plan: Surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, immunotherapy, or targeted therapy - stick to the plan your oncologist recommends.
  
• Eat and Rest Well: Nutrition and rest support recovery. Work with a dietitian if needed.
  
• Stay Mentally Strong: Emotional support, counselling, or joining support groups can help cope with anxiety or depression.
  
• Regular Follow-ups: Monitoring progress and catching any recurrence early is vital.

These strategies can support treatment and recovery, but they do not replace professional medical care. Always follow the advice of your treating oncologist.

Cancer can be managed as a chronic condition with ongoing treatment and monitoring. Emotional support, proper nutrition, and regular follow-ups all play important roles in recovery. If you suspect any of these symptoms or tumours or want a consultation, contact Bangla Health Connect, which connects you with experts at the leading hospitals.

Why Choose Trusted Hospitals Worldwide for Cancer and Tumour Treatment?

Through Bangla Health Connect, Bangladeshi patients can access world-renowned hospitals across India, Thailand, and other countries that are recognised for excellence in cancer and tumour care. Many patients travel abroad because of the advanced treatment options, strong survival outcomes, and trusted reputation of these centres.

Here’s why Bangladeshi patients choose cancer and tumour treatment with Bangla Health Connect in hospitals worldwide:

• Experienced cancer specialists
  These hospitals have highly skilled oncologists, haematologists, and cancer surgeons who manage complex tumour and cancer cases every year. Many are internationally trained and bring expertise from leading centres in the US, UK, and Europe.
• Advanced medical technology
  Hospitals in the Bangla Health Connect network use modern cancer care solutions such as chemotherapy, radiotherapy, immunotherapy, targeted therapy, bone marrow transplantation, and minimally invasive surgery for tumours.
• Cost-effective treatment
  Hospitals in India, Thailand, and other countries offer world-class cancer treatment at affordable costs, ensuring international-quality care remains accessible for Bangladeshi patients.
• Minimal waiting time
  Bangla Health Connect helps patients avoid long delays by arranging timely consultations, fast-track diagnostic tests, and quick treatment initiation in trusted hospitals.
• Easy communication and support
  Many hospitals provide English-speaking specialists and staff, while Bangla Health Connect ensures smooth communication with Bengali-speaking coordinators and full guidance throughout the treatment process.

For Bangladeshi patients, Bangla Health Connect builds a trusted bridge to expert cancer specialists, advanced tumour therapies, and affordable international care.

Success & Outcomes for Treatment of Cancers and Tumours

Success in cancer and tumour treatment means the tumour is fully removed or controlled, symptoms are reduced, and the patient can return to a normal or near-normal life.

Understanding Success Rates

Cancer survival rates depend on the type of cancer and how early it is diagnosed. In general, localised cancers, those that have not spread to other parts of the body, show much higher survival rates compared to advanced-stage cancers.

According to the American Cancer Society, many localised cancers have excellent outcomes, with five-year survival rates above 90%. Examples include:

• Prostate cancer: ~100%
• Thyroid cancer: 99.9%
• Breast cancer: 99.3%
• Uterine cancer: 94.9%
• Kidney cancer: 92.9%
• Ovarian cancer: 92.4%
• Cervical cancer: 91.2%
• Colon cancer: 90.9%

Some cancers remain challenging to treat, even when detected at a localised stage. Their five-year survival rates are lower compared to other cancers:

• Esophageal cancer: 48.8%
• Pancreatic cancer: 44.3%
• Liver and intrahepatic bile duct cancer: 37.3%
• Brain cancer: 36%

What Does Success Mean?

• Complete removal of the tumour with no recurrence
  
• Tumour shrinkage and control through chemotherapy or radiation
  
• Long-term survival with no or minimal cancer symptoms
  
• Ability to live a healthy life with continued follow-up care

Approach of Leading Cancer Hospitals

World-class hospitals focus on accurate diagnosis, personalised care, and coordinated treatment for different types of cancers and tumours. Their approach usually includes:

• Advanced diagnostics - Comprehensive blood tests, tumour markers, biopsy, endoscopy, CT scan, MRI, PET-CT, and molecular/genetic profiling for precise cancer detection.
• Modern surgical methods - Minimally invasive, laparoscopic, and robotic-assisted surgeries for tumour removal, along with complex procedures such as bone marrow and stem cell transplantation.
• Targeted and precision therapies - Use of chemotherapy, radiotherapy, immunotherapy, targeted drugs, hormonal therapy, and advanced techniques like proton therapy for specific cancers.
• Multidisciplinary planning - Cancer care teams where oncologists, surgeons, radiologists, pathologists, and other specialists collaborate to design the most effective treatment plan.

By combining advanced technology, expert specialists, and a patient-focused approach, these hospitals have significantly improved treatment success rates and the overall quality of life for people with cancer and tumours.

Expert Insights

Dr. Rathna Devi, Senior Consultant and Radiation Oncologist at Apollo Cancer Centre, Chennai, discussed the three main treatment approaches: surgical oncology, medical oncology, and radiation oncology. Dr. Devi highlighted how each modality plays a key role in managing different types of cancer. She also focused on advanced surgical techniques and radiation therapies used today, explaining how they help improve recovery compared to earlier times. Having expertise in this field for several years, she is happy that modern-day technologies can help patients regain their normal life.

Dr. Rayappa, Head & Neck and Skull Base Surgeon at Apollo Cancer Centre, Chennai, explains parotid gland tumours. These tumours, mostly benign, appear as painless swellings near the jaw or ear. Alarming signs include rapid growth, pain, or facial weakness, possibly indicating cancer. Diagnosis involves clinical exams, imaging, and biopsy. While causes are often unclear, smoking and alcohol may increase the risk. Surgery is the main treatment, with careful attention to preserving the facial nerve. Malignant cases may need radiation or chemotherapy. Dr. Rayappa stresses early diagnosis and expert care for better outcomes, supported by advanced technology at Apollo.

In an awareness session, Dr. T. Raja, Director of Medical Oncology at Apollo Cancer Centre, Chennai, highlighted the rising cancer burden in India, noting that children and adolescents now make up nearly 15% of cases, a harsh and growing concern. He pointed out the increasing onset of cancer in people and the common issue of late diagnosis. Dr. Raja stressed that early detection offers up to an 80% cure rate. He also spoke about advancements in treatment, including proton therapy, targeted drugs, and PET CT scans, which together enhance precision, reduce side effects, and significantly improve cancer care outcomes.

In this session, Dr. Ajit Pai, Surgical Oncologist at Apollo Hospitals Chennai, discussed the growing role of laparoscopic and robotic-assisted surgery in cancer treatment. These minimally invasive techniques allow for precise tumour removal with smaller incisions, leading to less pain, quicker recovery, and minimal scarring. He highlighted their effectiveness in treating gastrointestinal and pelvic cancers, especially when combined with chemotherapy or radiation. Dr. Pai also stressed the importance of specialised training, multidisciplinary teamwork, and ongoing research to improve outcomes and make these advanced techniques more accessible and reliable for cancer patients across different stages of the disease.

How Bangla Health Connect Supports Bangladeshi Patients

Bangla Health Connect helps Bangladeshi patients access trusted, timely, and advanced treatment for cancers and tumours. Our team works closely with hospitals abroad to ensure every step of your medical journey is smooth and worry-free.

Medical Guidance for Cancer and Tumour Treatment

• Bangla Health Connect helps patients schedule quick consultations with leading oncologists, surgical experts, and radiologists at hospitals across the world.
• We also help patients get second opinions from the world-class cancer specialists.

Travel Assistance for Cancer and Tumour Treatment

• Our team supports your medical visa process by arranging official visa invitation letters from hospitals.
• We guide you in booking flights and travel planning.
• On arrival, we offer complimentary airport pickup.

Cost Transparency for Cancer and Tumour Treatment

• Bangla Health Connect shares detailed, personalised cost breakdowns at the leading hospitals
• Patients receive clarity on the complete treatment package or advanced health check packages with no hidden fees.

Bangla Health Connect makes this process simple and supportive, from travel arrangements to ongoing medical guidance, ensuring Bangladeshi patients receive high-quality care with peace of mind. 

With over 60,000 Bangladeshi patients assisted, Bangla Health Connect has built strong trust through clarity, care, and personal support.

Contact Bangla Health Connect today to begin your treatment journey with trusted support every step of the way.

Note: Bangla Health Connect does not provide medical advice of any kind.

Patient Stories

A complex surgery for a Bangladeshi patient

Mr. Iqbal Shahriar, a patient from Bangladesh, was diagnosed with a peri-ampullary tumour after developing multiple abdominal symptoms. He was advised to undergo Whipple’s procedure, a complex and major abdominal surgery. He travelled to India with hope. At Apollo, Dr. JKA Jameel, Senior Consultant in Gastrointestinal and Laparoscopic Surgery, Chennai, performed the surgery successfully and removed the tumour completely. Mr. Shahriar expressed deep satisfaction with the care he received and returned home healthy.

Bangladeshi patient Nural Bashar recovers from stomach cancer after surgery at Apollo Hospitals, Chennai

MD Nural Bashar, a patient from Bangladesh, was diagnosed with stomach cancer and advised to undergo treatment by Dr. Ajit Pai, Surgical Oncologist at Apollo Hospitals, Chennai. Dr. Pai had initially met him during a medical camp in Bangladesh. Following the recommendation, Mr. Bashar travelled to Chennai for surgery. The procedure was successful, and he has since returned to a healthy life. Today, he is enjoying a normal routine with his two children and remains grateful for the care and expertise he received at Apollo.

Successful removal of a complex chest wall tumour

Mr. Rahim, a 45-year-old from Bangladesh, was diagnosed with a complex chest wall tumour located near vital organs. His treatment demanded meticulous planning and expert surgical execution. At Apollo Chennai, Dr. Ashok Kumar and Dr. Suresh Menon successfully removed the tumour without complications. Mr. Rahim made a full recovery, highlighting Apollo’s excellence in managing challenging cancer cases.

 Plan Your Treatment Abroad with Bangla Health Connect

✅ Share Your Reports - Bangla Health Connect connects you with trusted hospitals worldwide.
✅ Get treatment plans from leading Hospitals worldwide
✅ Choose the one that fits you
✅ Let us handle the rest