Doctor warns – ‘these are 17 main cancer symptoms, never ignore them’

Doctor Warns: These are the 17 Main Cancer Symptoms You Should Never Ignore

Cancer is a disease that can affect anyone, and early detection is key to successful treatment. Macmillan Cancer Support reports that approximately 393,000 people in the UK receive a cancer diagnosis each year, with cancer claiming the lives of around 167,000 people annually. Experts at the University of California San Francisco have identified 17 key signs and symptoms of cancer that should not be ignored.

According to the experts, early detection is crucial in the battle against cancer. They advise paying close attention to changes in your body and reaching out to your healthcare provider if you notice something new or different that lasts several weeks. While not every symptom is indicative of cancer, the following 17 symptoms may warrant a consultation with your doctor.

1. Abnormal periods or pelvic pain: Changes in your menstrual cycle or pelvic pain could be a sign of cervical, endometrial, or ovarian cancer.
2. Changes in bathroom habits: Major changes in bowel or urinary habits can indicate colon, prostate, or bladder cancer.
3. Bloating: Persistent bloating could be a sign of ovarian or gastrointestinal cancers.
4. Breast changes: Any changes in the breast, such as lumps, dimpling, or discharge, should be evaluated.
5. Chronic coughing: A persistent cough, especially a dry one, can be a sign of lung cancer.
6. Chronic headache: Headaches that last more than two weeks could be caused by a brain tumour.
7. Difficulty swallowing: Trouble swallowing could indicate throat, lung, or stomach cancer.
8. Excessive bruising: Unexplained bruises in unusual places could be a sign of blood cancers.
9. Frequent fevers or infections: Recurring fevers or infections may signal leukaemia or lymphoma.
10. Oral changes: Persistent sores or lesions in the mouth may be indicative of oral cancers.
11. Skin changes: Changes in moles or birthmarks could be signs of skin cancer.
12. Unexplained pain: Persistent, unexplained pain should be evaluated.
13. Persistent fatigue: Sudden and lasting fatigue could indicate lymphoma or leukaemia.
14. Postmenopausal bleeding: Bleeding after menopause may require investigation for cervical or endometrial cancer.
15. Stomach pain or nausea: Prolonged stomach discomfort could be a warning sign of various cancers.
16. Unexplained weight loss: Losing weight without trying could be a symptom of different cancers.
17. Unusual lumps: Any new, persistent lumps should be evaluated by a healthcare provider.

If you notice any of these symptoms or have concerns about your health, it is essential to consult a GP or healthcare provider promptly.

In conclusion, staying vigilant about changes in your body and seeking medical advice for any concerning symptoms is crucial in the early detection and treatment of cancer. Regular health check-ups and screenings can also play a significant role in identifying cancer at its earliest and most treatable stages. Remember, your health is your most valuable asset, so don’t ignore any warning signs your body may be sending you.