Early Signs of Cancer You Shouldn’t Ignore

1. Unexplained Weight Loss

Losing weight without any effort may sound good, but it can be a sign of something serious. If you are losing weight rapidly without changes in your diet or exercise, it could be a sign of cancers like stomach, pancreatic, lung, or esophageal cancer. If you lose more than 5 kg without trying, it's best to consult a doctor. Weight loss due to cancer happens because cancer cells consume a lot of the body’s energy and may also affect the way food is absorbed.

2. Persistent Fatigue

Feeling tired after a long day is normal, but if you constantly feel exhausted even after resting, it could be a warning sign. Unexplained fatigue is often linked to cancers such as leukemia, colon, or stomach cancer. Fatigue caused by cancer doesn’t improve with rest and is often accompanied by other symptoms like pale skin, shortness of breath, or dizziness. If you feel weak and drained most of the time, it’s important to get checked by a doctor.

3. Changes in Skin Appearance

Skin cancer is one of the most common types of cancer, and it often starts with noticeable changes on the skin. Look out for moles or spots that change in size, shape, or color. If you notice new moles or existing ones becoming irregular, dark, or bleeding, it could be a sign of melanoma, a serious type of skin cancer.

4. Unusual Bleeding

Unexpected bleeding can be a strong warning sign of cancer. Coughing up blood could indicate lung cancer, blood in the stool might be linked to colon cancer, and abnormal vaginal bleeding could be a sign of cervical or uterine cancer. Some patients with bladder or kidney cancer may notice blood in their urine. If you notice any unusual bleeding, seek medical advice immediately.

5. Persistent Pain

Pain that does not go away can be a symptom of many health issues, including cancer. Continuous headaches may indicate brain tumors, while persistent back pain could be a sign of bone or ovarian cancer. If you have long-lasting pain that doesn’t respond to treatment, don’t ignore it. Bone cancer, for example, can cause pain in the affected area that worsens at night.

6. Lumps or Swelling

A lump or swelling in any part of the body should never be ignored. It can be a sign of breast cancer, lymphoma, or testicular cancer. If you feel any unusual growths, especially in the breast, underarm, neck, or groin, consult a doctor as soon as possible. While not all lumps are cancerous, a medical examination is necessary to rule out serious conditions.

7. Difficulty Swallowing

If you frequently experience pain or difficulty while swallowing, it could be a sign of throat, esophageal, or stomach cancer. Many people ignore this symptom, thinking it is due to acid reflux or throat infections, but if the problem persists, a medical check-up is necessary. Cancer of the esophagus can make swallowing progressively harder, leading to weight loss and malnutrition. A feeling of food getting stuck or frequent choking episodes are signs that should not be ignored.

8. Long-Lasting Cough or Hoarseness

A cough that doesn’t go away, especially if you are not sick, could be a warning sign of lung cancer. Hoarseness or voice changes can also indicate cancer in the throat or voice box. If you have a persistent cough that lasts more than three weeks, consult a doctor.

9. Changes in Bowel or Bladder Habits

Sudden changes in bowel movements, such as constipation, diarrhea, or blood in the stool, could indicate colon cancer. Similarly, if you feel pain or see blood while urinating, it could be a sign of bladder or prostate cancer. If you notice any irregularities in your bathroom habits that last for weeks, get a medical evaluation. Persistent bloating, excessive gas, or a feeling of incomplete bowel emptying can also be symptoms of gastrointestinal cancers.