Two years ago, in 2023, it came as a shock for fans to learn that veteran actress Sharmila Tagore was battling cancer. She was diagnosed with lung cancer, but at stage zero. Recently, her daughter Soha Ali Khan opened up about the experience of her mother being diagnosed early on and how it helped her in treatment and recovery.

In an interaction with Nayandeep Rakshit, she said, "With my mother, she was one of the very few people to be diagnosed with lung cancer at stage zero, and no chemotherapy, nothing. It was cut out of her and she is, touchwood, fine."

The first time the conversation about this was made publicly was during Sharmila's appearance on Koffee with Karan. Host Karan Johar had said, "I would offered Sharmila ji the part played by Shabana ji. She was my very first choice. But because of health reasons at that time, she couldn't say yes." To this, Sharmila responded, "After my cancer...they didn't want me to take that risk."

What Is Stage Zero Lung Cancer?

As per the American Lung Association, Stage Zero is an early-stage lung cancer that is only in the top lining of the lung or bronchus and has not yet spread.

Why Is Staging So Important?

The American Lung Association notes that once your specific type of lung cancer has been identified, the next crucial step in the journey from diagnosis to treatment is staging. This process determines how far the cancer has spread and helps your care team design the most effective treatment plan for you.

To assign a cancer stage, doctors use a combination of imaging tests—such as CT scans and PET scans—and tissue tests like biopsies. These provide a comprehensive view of the cancer’s location and extent.

Staging does more than guide treatment—it also offers insight into your overall prognosis, or likely course of the disease. By looking at data from other patients with the same type and stage of lung cancer, doctors can estimate outcomes. However, it’s important to remember that each case is unique, and no doctor can predict exactly how your cancer will respond to treatment or determine your life expectancy with certainty.

The staging process can vary depending on the individual case. Generally, it starts before treatment begins, based on the results of imaging and biopsy tests. This is called the clinical stage.

For some patients, doctors recommend pre-treatment intranodal staging—also known as invasive nodal staging or intrathoracic staging. This involves examining the lymph nodes in the chest to see if cancer has spread there. Understanding this early can be especially important if the cancer hasn’t yet reached other organs, as it helps doctors determine the full extent of the disease and tailor the treatment accordingly.

Pre-treatment intranodal staging is best done before therapy begins and can sometimes alter the clinical stage based on more detailed information. Two procedures commonly used for this are:

EBUS-TBNA (Endobronchial Ultrasound with Transbronchial Needle Aspiration): A minimally invasive test that uses a bronchoscope and a needle to collect tissue or fluid samples from chest lymph nodes.

Mediastinoscopy: A surgical procedure that allows doctors to examine and take samples from the mediastinum—the space behind the breastbone between the lungs.

If a patient undergoes surgery as their first treatment, doctors may assign a pathological stage afterward. This combines the clinical stage with findings from the surgery itself, often providing a more accurate picture of the disease and informing future treatment steps.

If the cancer returns after treatment, it will be restaged, often using the same types of tests that were done during the initial diagnosis.

What Determines Lung Cancer Stage?

Lung cancer staging is based on three main criteria, commonly referred to as the TNM system:

T (Tumor): Size of the tumor and its exact location in the lung.

N (Nodes): Whether the cancer has spread to nearby lymph nodes, especially in the chest.

M (Metastasis): Whether the cancer has spread to other organs in the body.

Each of these components is assigned a value, which is then used to determine the overall stage of the cancer. This system helps guide treatment decisions and gives patients and caregivers a better understanding of the disease.

The American Heart Association (AHA), in its latest update on nutrition guidance, has urged the need to eat a diet rich in vegetables and fruits, while also making a key shift to plant-based protein from meat-based protein earlier to improve heart health.

It has also emphasized the need to reduce the intake of sugar, salt and ultra-processed foods, as well as to switch to low-fat dairy.

The scientific statement, which is issued about every five years, comes amid increasing cases of high blood pressure and obesity in the US, which can potentially lead to poor health outcomes, including deaths from cardiovascular disease and other chronic conditions.

“For healthy eating to be more attainable and sustainable, we recommend people focus on their overall eating pattern rather than specific nutrients or foods. This approach is actionable, something that can be modified as people pass through different life stages, while still adhering to the nine key features,” said Alice H. Lichtenstein, volunteer chair of the scientific statement writing committee and senior scientist.

“The guidance applies to wherever you eat: at home, school, work, restaurants, or in your community. You want to strive for progress rather than perfection. Every time you choose to make a swap for a healthier alternative, you’re making a step toward a healthier life,” added Lichtenstein, who is also senior scientist at the Jean Mayer USDA Human Nutrition Research Center on Aging at Tufts University in Boston.

The 9 Guidelines for a heart-healthy dietary pattern include:

• Maintaining a healthy body weight by balancing food intake and physical activity
• Eating plenty of vegetables and fruits
• Choose whole grains such as whole‑wheat bread, brown rice, and oatmeal over refined grains such as white bread or white rice
• Shifting from meat to plant-based sources such as legumes, including beans, peas, and lentils, along with nuts and seeds, and fish and seafood. Select low-fat or fat-free dairy products.
• Replace saturated fats with healthy unsaturated fats, including those from nuts, seeds, avocados, and non-tropical plant oils.
• Choose minimally processed foods instead of ultra-processed foods
• Limit beverages and foods with added sugars
• Choose foods low in sodium and prepare foods with minimal or no salt
• Limit intake of alcohol

Also read: AHA’s New Dyslipidemia Guidelines Stress Early Screening, Lifestyle Management

Healthy Eating Patterns From Childhood

The 2026 guidance for children recommends a heart‑healthy dietary pattern starting at 1 year of age. It urges families to play a significant role and become role models.

“Cardiovascular disease begins early in life; even prenatal factors can contribute to increased risk in children as they grow. So, it’s important that healthy eating patterns are adopted in childhood and continue throughout the entire lifespan,” Lichtenstein said.

“The best way to do that is for adults to role model heart-healthy eating patterns inside and outside the home,” she added.

Also read: Cardiovascular Diseases Lead As India’s Top Killer: US Cardiologist Points Out Risk Factors

While the updated guidance is specifically designed to improve cardiovascular health, it may also help improve other conditions like type 2 diabetes, kidney disease, some cancers, and brain health.

Breast cancer treatment has evolved significantly over the past few decades, moving from radical removal approaches to more personalized and tissue-preserving techniques. Today, surgeons no longer view breast conservation surgery (BCS) and mastectomy as competing options, but as equally effective strategies chosen based on individual patient needs.

With the growing availability of reconstructive surgery in Kolkata, patients now also have better cosmetic and psychological outcomes regardless of the surgical path they choose.

Understanding The Two Surgical Options

When faced with a breast cancer diagnosis, understanding the available surgical options is crucial for making an informed decision. Each approach is designed to effectively treat the disease while considering the patient’s long-term health, comfort, and quality of life.

What Is Breast Conservation Surgery (BCS)?

Breast conservation surgery, or lumpectomy or partial mastectomy, is a procedure that involves the removal of the tumor and a small amount of surrounding healthy tissue while preserving most of the breast.

The main objective is to remove cancer without altering the natural shape and appearance of the breast. Radiation therapy is usually administered after surgery to kill any remaining cancer cells and minimize the chances of recurrence.

What Is A Mastectomy?

Mastectomy is the removal of the whole breast tissue, and in other cases, the lymph nodes and skin around the breast. It can be done on either breast or both breasts based on the type of cancer and risk factors.

After a mastectomy, patients can choose to have breast reconstruction with the help of modern surgical procedures, such as those provided in reconstructive surgery in Kolkata, which can help to restore the shape and symmetry of the breast.

Major Differences Between BCS And Mastectomy

The basic distinction is the degree of tissue excision. BCS leaves the majority of the breast, but a mastectomy takes away all of it.

Notably, several studies indicate that both methods have equal chances of survival in the long term in early-stage breast cancer.

Eligibility Criteria: Who Can Opt For What?

Not every patient is suited for the same surgical approach, as the choice largely depends on individual clinical factors. Tumor size, stage, location, and overall health all play a crucial role in determining eligibility. Understanding who can opt for which procedure helps ensure both effective treatment and optimal long-term outcomes.

Candidates for Breast Conservation Surgery

BCS is usually prescribed to patients with:

• Stage I or II breast cancer
• Tumors smaller than 5 cm
• One tumor in one area
• No radiation therapy contraindications
• Some cases do not have high-risk genetic mutations like BRCA

It might not apply to patients who have more than one tumor in other parts of the breast or those with advanced disease.

Candidates for Mastectomy

Mastectomy may be suggested when:

• The tumor is huge in comparison with the size of the breast
• It has several tumors in various quadrants
• Cancer is metastatic (Stage III or IV)
• The genetic risk of recurrence is high in the patient
• Radiation therapy is not an option or choice

Moreover, other patients might opt to undergo mastectomy to have a sense of security or to alleviate the fear of recurrence.

Advancements In Breast Surgery

The current surgical advances have greatly enhanced the results, particularly in patients who want to preserve their breasts.

Oncoplastic Surgery

Among the most remarkable developments is the oncoplastic breast surgery that involves the use of both cancer resection and plastic surgery. This enables the surgeons to excise bigger tumors without altering the shape and symmetry of the breast.

This has increased the eligibility of BCS so that more women can avoid mastectomy and still have safe control of cancer.

Improved Imaging and Targeting

Modern imaging techniques have assisted surgeons in accurately identifying tumors so that they can be fully removed without damaging normal tissue. This enhances cosmetic outcomes as well as oncological safety.

Advanced Reconstruction Methods

The emergence of reconstructive surgery in Kolkata has given patients who have undergone mastectomy the opportunity to have an immediate or delayed reconstruction with the help of implants or autologous tissue.

Reconstruction has been brought to improve psychological well-being, body image, and quality of life.

Influencing Factors of Surgical Decision-Making

The decision to use BCS or mastectomy is not only a medical choice, but a very personal one, which depends on several factors:

1. Cancer Stage and Tumor Characteristics

The main determinants include tumor size, location, and spread. BCS is more appropriate in early-stage cancers, whereas mastectomy is usually necessary in advanced cases.

2. Survival and Recurrence Outcomes

It has always been demonstrated that the survival rates are the same with BCS (including radiation) and mastectomy in the case of early-stage cancers. Nevertheless, BCS can be slightly more likely to recur locally, which can be treated.

3. Patient Preference

A major role is played by emotional and psychological factors. There are those patients who want to keep their breasts, and others opt to undergo a mastectomy to have peace of mind. Studies show fear of recurrence is a major driver for choosing mastectomy.

4. Access to Radiation Therapy

Since BCS requires post-operative radiation, access to treatment facilities can influence the decision. Patients without easy access may opt for a mastectomy.

5. Cosmetic and Quality-of-Life Concerns

BCS tends to provide superior cosmetic results and satisfaction. Nevertheless, the modern methods of reconstruction have also helped to enhance the results of mastectomy patients considerably.

What Do Surgeons Recommend Today?

Modern breast surgeons support a multidisciplinary patient-centered approach. Instead of prescribing a single solution, they consider:

• Clinical (tumor size, stage, genetics)
• Access to care and patient lifestyle
• Motivational preparedness and individual interests

Surgeons are increasingly preferring breast conservation surgery in most of the early-stage cases because of its good results and quality-of-life advantages. Nevertheless, mastectomy is necessary in more complicated or risky cases.

Conclusion

The debate between breast conservation surgery and mastectomy is no longer about which is superior, but about which is most appropriate for the individual patient. Oncoplastic techniques and reconstructive surgery in Kolkata have advanced, and patients now have a choice of safer, more personalized, and cosmetically satisfying options.

Heart failure has quietly emerged as one of India’s most serious and underestimated health challenges, driven by a rise in hypertension, diabetes, obesity, and delayed diagnosis of heart disease.

Due to a shortage of donor organs and a long waiting period before receiving the right treatment, end-stage heart failure patients in India faced a lot of difficulties a few years ago.

Today, advancements in heart transplant techniques are changing the situation from what was once an untreatable condition to a second chance at life.

Data from the National Organ and Tissue Transplant Organization (NOTTO) shows a significant year-on-year rise in heart transplants, with 253 transplants done in 2024, showcasing improved organ donation awareness, better coordination between hospitals, and stronger transplant networks.

What was once considered the only option is now emerging as a life-saving solution, offering patients not just a second chance but a return to a more meaningful and active life.

Why Are Heart Transplants Needed?

A heart transplant offers hope and gives a second life to patients whose hearts no longer support the body even after the best available medical aid.

Although it is never performed instantly, it becomes necessary whenever conditions of the heart result in end-stage heart failure, where the pumping function of the heart is compromised.

Also read: Harish Rana’s Family Donated His Heart Valves And Corneas After His Death From Passive Euthanasia

When medications and modern technologies cannot supply an adequate amount of blood and oxygen to the organs, patients experience extreme breathlessness, fluid buildup, fatigue, and repeated hospitalizations, making even simple activities like walking, eating, or lying flat exhausting.

As the flow of blood continues to deteriorate, failure is also expected in other vital organs such as the kidneys and liver. It is at this point that the transplantation of the donor heart is considered the only treatment option to ensure that the blood flow is normalized.

How Heart Transplantation Transforms Life?

Heart transplant is not just a surgical replacement of a failing organ, but a complete life restoration for patients with end-stage heart failure.

Its benefits include:

• Normalizes Heart Functioning: A healthy donor heart can immediately restore normal and effective blood flow. This will reduce weakness and fatigue that makes carrying out everyday tasks rather difficult.
• Enhances Survival Rates: Patients diagnosed with end-stage heart failure can only experience the best post-transplant survival outcomes when they undergo the transplant procedure as compared to other medical treatments.
• Enhances Quality of Life: The patients are able to attain independence once again as they are able to walk, sleep, travel, and socialize with their families and friends.
• Prevents Frequent Hospitalization: The successful transplant procedure prevents constant hospitalization, especially in cases with deteriorating heart failure, infections, and organ dysfunction.
• Protects Other Vital Organs: By restoring adequate blood flow, heart transplantation helps reverse damage to the kidneys, liver, and lungs caused by prolonged heart failure
• Permits Return to Normal Roles and Responsibilities: Patients regain their ability to work, take care of others, and carry out their daily responsibilities, which helps their emotional well-being.