Cancer, a group of diseases characterised by abnormal cell growth, affects millions of people worldwide. Early detection plays a vital role in successful treatment, so it is very important to be aware of the common symptoms of cancer. Prompt medical care and screening can significantly improve the chances of a positive outcome.
Six signs that should never be neglected because they can indicate the presence of cancer
1. Unexplained weight loss:
Sudden and unexplained weight loss, especially if it exceeds 10% of your body weight, can be a warning sign of various cancers, including pancreatic, stomach, lung and esophageal cancer. Unintentional weight loss may be accompanied by loss of appetite, fatigue and weakness. If you notice a significant change in weight for no apparent reason, it is important to consult a doctor.
2. Constant fatigue:
Fatigue is a common symptom of our fast-paced lives but persistent exhaustion that doesn’t improve with rest can indicate health problems, including cancer. Many types of cancer, such as leukemia, colon or stomach cancer, can cause chronic fatigue.
3. Unusual skin changes:
Changes in the skin, such as new moles or changes in existing moles, should never be ignored. Skin cancer, including melanoma, can appear as an unusual mole, growth, or change in the color, shape, or size of an existing mole. In addition, skin cancers can cause itching, pain, or bleeding.
4. Constant pain:
Persistent and unexplained pain should never be ignored. Depending on the location, it can be a symptom of different types of cancer. For example, a persistent headache may indicate a brain tumor, while back pain may be related to ovarian or pancreatic cancer. Bone pain can be a sign of bone metastases from breast, prostate or lung cancer.
5. Unusual bleeding:
Any unexplained bleeding or unusual discharge requires medical attention. Cancers of the colon, cervix, uterus, or bladder can cause rectal bleeding, abnormal vaginal bleeding, or blood in the urine. Coughing up blood can indicate lung cancer, while blood in the stool can be a sign of gastrointestinal cancer.
6. Persistent cough or hoarseness:
A persistent cough or hoarseness that lasts more than three weeks can be a sign of several cancers, especially lung, throat or larynx cancer. Although a cough is a common symptom of a respiratory illness, it becomes a concern if it persists or if your sputum contains blood.
If you notice these symptoms, contact your doctor for further evaluation. Recognising the possible signs of cancer is essential for early detection and successful treatment. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is very important to see a doctor right away.