Cancer is one of the leading causes of mortality worldwide, although early identification can dramatically increase survival rates. Recognizing warning signals and getting immediate medical attention are critical in detecting malignancies at an early stage, when therapy is most successful.
Here are some early warning signals of common cancers that need to be promptly investigated.
1. Unexplained weight loss
A rapid and inexplicable weight loss of more than five kg could point to pancreatic, stomach, oesophageal, or lung cancer. This occurs because cancer cells need extra energy and will draw upon the body’s resources, or, due to changes in the metabolism of your body.
2. Constant tiredness
Symptoms such as prolonged periods of tiredness that doesn’t go away with rest may indicate illnesses, such as leukaemia, colon cancer, or stomach cancer. Cancer-related fatigue differs from typical fatigue in that it is usually more acute and lasts longer.
3. Changes in skin
Look for anything unusual in the way your skin appears. See:
New or changing moles or patches that could suggest melanoma.
Jaundice, yellowing of the skin or eyes, which is most often associated with liver or pancreatic cancer.
Changes in skin colour — such as redness or areas that have darkened — may signal an underlying malignancy.
4. Persistent Cough or Hoarseness
In particular, cough lasting more than three weeks in non- smokers should be investigated, to rule out lung cancer. A persistent hoarse or aching throat could signal thyroid or throat cancer.
5. Unusual Bleeding or Discharge
Unexplained bleeding should never be taken lightly and requires urgent investigation.
Blood in the stool may be suggestive of colorectal cancer.
Blood in the urine may be indicative of bladder or kidney cancer.
Vaginal bleeding outside of typical cycles, particularly after menopause, could be a sign of uterine or cervical cancer.
coughing up blood could be a symptom of lung cancer.
6. Variations in Bladder or Bowel Habits
Colorectal cancer might show up as persistent constipation, frequent diarrhea, or a sensation of incomplete bowel motions. Likewise, frequent urination, trouble urinating, or blood in urine could point to bladder or prostate cancer.
7. Unhealed Sores or Lumps
A sore that doesn’t heal within a reasonable time, particularly in the mouth or on the skin, may be a sign of cancer. Do not ignore lumps or thickened tissue in areas such as the breast, testicles, or neck.
8. Trouble Swallowing
Having constant or persistent trouble with swallowing or a feeling that the food is stuck in your throat may be a sign of esophageal or throat cancer.
9. Chronic Pain
Persistent or worsening, unexplained pain could be an early sign of bone or testicular cancer. It’s best to speak to a doctor to ensure that there’s no serious health concern; whether the pain is widespread, or, limited to a single location.
10. Changes in Appearance of Breast
Both men and women should opt for medical consultation if any changes, such as lumps, dimpling in the skin or nipple discharge, is noted in the breast.
While the e symptoms mentioned above are not necessarily a sign of cancer, if any of them last longer than two weeks, you should see a doctor. The key to early detection is regular screenings, particularly for high-risk groups.
Early detection of cancer is vital for successful treatment. Know your body, pay attention to any abnormal changes, and get regular checkups. Rapid response can avert life-threatening situations..
Dr Rajeev Vijayakumar, Sr Consultant – Medical Oncologist, Hemato Oncologist & BMT physician, Gleneagles BGS Hospital, Kengeri, Bengaluru
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