Early Cancer Warning Signs: 11 Symptoms You Shouldn't Ignore

Cancer is a complex disease characterized by the uncontrolled growth and division of abnormal cells in the body. In a healthy body, cells grow, divide and eventually die in a regular manner. However, in cancer, this normal process is disrupted, and cells continue to divide and accumulate, forming a mass of tissue called a tumor. However, not all tumors are cancer. Tumors can be either benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous).

Cancer symptoms can vary depending on the type and stage of cancer. Early detection is important for effective treatment and better outcomes. Diagnostic methods for cancer include imaging tests, biopsies, blood tests, and other specialized examinations.

Cancer Symptoms

According to the WHO , cancer is a leading cause of death worldwide, accounting for nearly 609,360 deaths in 2020, or approximately one in six deaths. Cancer can present with a variety of symptoms, and it is important to note that these symptoms can vary depending on the type and stage of the cancer. While these symptoms may be associated with cancer, they can also be caused by other non-cancerous conditions. It is important to consult a health care professional for an accurate diagnosis. Here are 11 common symptoms that may indicate the presence of cancer.

1. Unexplained Weight Loss

Significant and unexplained weight loss without changes in diet or exercise can be a symptom of various types of cancer.

2. Fatigue

Persistent fatigue and tiredness that doesn't improve with rest can be a sign of several types of cancer.

3. Pain

Persistent or worsening pain that is not getting better, especially if it is localized and not associated with a known injury or condition, may be a symptom of cancer.

4. Skin Changes

Skin changes such as darkening, yellowing, redness, excessive hair growth, or visible changes in existing moles can be signs of skin cancer or other types of cancer.

5. Change in bowel or bladder habits

Persistent changes in bowel or bladder habits, such as blood in the stool or urine, a change in frequency or consistency, or unexplained urinary or bowel urgency, may be a sign of certain cancers, including colorectal or bladder cancer.

6. Persistent cough or hoarseness

A persistent cough that doesn't go away or gets worse over time, or hoarseness in the voice that lasts longer than usual, can be signs of cancer of the lung, throat, or larynx.

7. Difficulty swallowing

Persistent difficulty or pain with swallowing, known as dysphagia, can be a symptom of cancer affecting the esophagus, throat, or stomach.

8. Changes in lumps or skin lesions

A new lump or growth on the body, a change in the size or shape of an existing lump, or a sore or ulcer that does not heal can be a symptom of various cancers, including breast, skin, or oral cancer.

9. Changes in menstrual cycle

Abnormal changes in menstrual patterns, such as heavy or prolonged periods, bleeding between periods, or postmenopausal bleeding, may be symptoms of gynecological cancer.

10. Difficulty in breathing

Shortness of breath, wheezing, or persistent chest pain can be signs of lung cancer or cancer that has spread to the lungs.

11. Abdominal or pelvic pain

Persistent or unexplained abdominal or pelvic pain, discomfort, or bloating can be symptoms of different types of cancer, including ovarian, pancreatic, or colorectal cancer.

Cancer Treatment

Cancer treatment depends on a variety of factors, including the type, stage, and location of the cancer, as well as the person's overall health. A comprehensive treatment approach often involves a combination of different treatments tailored to the specific needs of the patient. Here are some common treatment options for cancer.

Surgery

The aim of surgical intervention is to remove the cancerous tumor and the surrounding affected tissues. It can be used to diagnose, stage and treat cancer. Depending on the extent of the cancer, surgery may be curative (removing the entire tumor), palliative (relieving symptoms and improving quality of life), or preventive (removing precancerous tissue).

Radiation Therapy

Radiation therapy uses high-energy rays or particles to kill cancer cells or shrink tumors. It is administered internally through a machine (external beam radiation) or by placing radioactive material near the tumor (brachytherapy). Radiation therapy may be used as the first treatment or in combination with other treatments, such as surgery or chemotherapy.

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy involves the use of drugs that target and destroy cancer cells throughout the body. It can be administered orally or intravenously and can be given as a stand-alone treatment or in combination with surgery or radiation therapy. Chemotherapy may be used to shrink tumors, control cancer growth, or kill cancer cells after surgery.

Immunotherapy

Immunotherapy boosts the body's immune system to recognize and destroy cancer cells. This involves the use of drugs that boost the immune response or genetically modify the patient's own immune cells. Immunotherapy can be effective in treating a variety of cancers and has shown promising results in some cases.

Targeted Therapy

Targeted therapy uses drugs that specifically target certain genetic or molecular abnormalities within cancer cells. By blocking the growth and spread of cancer cells, targeted therapy can be more precise and cause fewer side effects than traditional chemotherapy.

Conclusion

Cancer is a complex and diverse disease that requires a comprehensive approach to treatment. The field of cancer care has made significant advances in understanding, diagnosing, and treating cancer, leading to better outcomes and increased survival rates for many individuals. Early detection through regular check-ups, prompt medical attention for associated symptoms and adopting a healthy lifestyle can play a significant role in the successful management of cancer. It's important to remember that each person's cancer journey is unique, and treatment plans are tailored to their specific needs, taking into account factors such as the type and stage of cancer, overall health, and personal preferences. Cancer treatment options are varied and may include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, targeted therapy, hormone therapy, and stem cell transplant. These treatments may be used individually or in combination, depending on the specific characteristics of the cancer and the goals of treatment.

How long does cancer take to spread?

About 1 in 6 cancers occur in the 3 years between screens," he says. “They will not be there when we test the first time, but they will develop earlier the second time. So they have evolved relatively quickly.

Frequently Asked Questions – FAQs

What are the 7 warning signs of cancer?

If you've been experiencing any of these symptoms for more than a few weeks, or they get worse, contact your doctor right away.
Unexplained weight loss.
Fever.
Tiredness.
Pain.
skin changes.
Changes in bowel habits or bladder function.
unusual bleeding or discharge.

What are my first signs of cancer?

Sometimes the symptoms affect specific areas of the body, such as our abdomen or skin. But the signs can also be more general, and include weight loss, tiredness (fatigue) or unexplained pain. Some possible signs of cancer, such as lumps, are better known than others.

Where do all cancers start?

All cancers begin in cells. Our bodies are made up of over one hundred million million (100,000,000,000,000) cells. Cancer begins with a change in a single cell or a small group of cells. Usually, we have the right number of each type of cells.

What is stage 1 cancer?

Stage 1 - The cancer is small and has not spread elsewhere. Stage 2 - The cancer has grown but has not spread. Stage 3 - The cancer is large and may have spread to surrounding tissue and or lymph nodes (or "glands", part of the immune system).

Can cancer be cured?

There is no single cure for cancer. Cure means that with treatment the cancer is gone, no more treatment is needed, and the cancer is not expected to come back. It is rare that a doctor can be sure that the cancer will never come back. In most cases it takes time to know if the cancer may come back.