Early Cancer Warning Signs: Symptoms You Should Not Ignore

Cancer is a group of diseases that can cause almost any sign or symptom. The signs and symptoms will depend on where the cancer is, how big it is, and how much it affects the organs or tissues. 

Cancer develops when the body’s normal control mechanism stopsworking. Under healthy conditions, new cells form and replace old cells that wear out or have become damaged. Cancer begins to form when old cells do not die and instead grow out of control.

The symptoms below do not indicate that a person has cancer. Rather, the appearance of these symptoms should act as a guide dictating when a person should consult their physician, as part of preventative care.

Below are some symptoms related to common cancers types that should not be ignored:

• Change in bowel or bladder habits
• A sore that does not heal
• Unusual bleeding or discharge
• Thickening or lumps in breast or elsewhereIndigestion or difficulty in swallowing
• Obvious change in wart or mole
• Nagging cough or hoarseness
• Persistent pain lasting more than 1-2 weeks

Screenings can detect a cancer before symptoms appear. You too can pick up on early warning signs by paying close attention to changes in your body. If you notice something new or different that lasts several weeks – and several weeks is key – reach out to your health care provider. Not every symptom that could be cancer is cancer.