Warning Signs
Common symptoms to watch for
Many early cancers cause few or no symptoms. That is why screening matters. Still, any unusual or lasting change in your body should be checked by a doctor — do not ignore it out of fear or delay.
General warning signs
- Lumpiness or a thickened area in the breast; change in breast shape or colour; unusual nipple discharge; a nipple that turns inward (if it was not always that way); unusual breast pain
- A lump in the neck, armpit or anywhere else in the body
- Sores or ulcers that do not heal
- Cough or hoarseness that will not go away, or coughing up blood
- Changes in toilet habits lasting more than two weeks, or blood in a bowel motion
- New moles or skin spots, or ones that change shape, size or colour, or that bleed
- Unusual vaginal discharge or bleeding
- Unexplained weight loss
Other symptoms that need attention
Persistent pain
Pain that does not settle, especially with other changes, should be reviewed medically.
Difficulty swallowing
Ongoing trouble swallowing or feeling food stick can be linked to throat or oesophageal issues.
Mouth changes
White or red patches, non-healing ulcers or growths in the mouth need oral screening.
Fatigue & fever
Unusual tiredness, night sweats or unexplained fever can sometimes relate to blood cancers.
If you notice any changes, see your doctor immediately. Free screening is available for breast, cervical and prostate cancer at World Cancer Care camps.
— World Cancer Care