Cancer symptoms can vary depending on the type and location of the disease. Some signs are very subtle and easy to ignore

 

Cancer is a disease that develops silently in the body, often going unnoticed until it reaches a more advanced stage. However, early detection can make a big difference in successful treatment. That’s why it’s important to pay attention to unusual changes in the body. While many of these symptoms can be related to other health conditions, they can also be early warning signs of cancer.

Here are some common symptoms that people may notice before being diagnosed with cancer:

1. Unexplained Weight Loss

One of the earliest signs of cancer is unexpected weight loss. Losing more than 5 kilograms (10 pounds) without trying could be a cause for concern. This is especially common in cancers of the stomach, pancreas, lungs, or esophagus. The body may use up energy rapidly or stop absorbing nutrients properly due to cancer growth.

2. Persistent Fatigue

Feeling tired all the time, even after rest, can be a symptom of cancer. This kind of fatigue doesn’t improve with sleep and may gradually worsen. It is a common early symptom of leukemia but can also occur with colon or stomach cancers.

3. Fever

Fever is often a sign of infection, but it can also be related to cancer, especially when it persists or recurs frequently. In blood cancers such as leukemia or lymphoma, fever may be one of the first symptoms.

4. Pain

Persistent pain that doesn’t go away could be a signal that something is wrong. For example, back pain can be a symptom of ovarian or colon cancer, while headaches that don’t respond to usual treatment could suggest brain cancer. Pain may develop as the tumor grows and presses against nerves, bones, or organs.

5. Changes in Skin

Changes in the skin can also be a warning sign. These include:

Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice)

Darkening of the skin

Reddened skin

Itching or excessive hair growth Additionally, skin cancers like melanoma often appear as new or changing moles. If a mole changes in color, size, shape, or bleeds, it should be examined by a doctor.

6. Changes in Bowel or Bladder Habits

A lasting change in bowel movements — such as diarrhea, constipation, or narrowing of the stool — can indicate colon cancer. Similarly, blood in the urine or trouble urinating can be signs of bladder or prostate cancer. These symptoms are easy to overlook but should not be ignored.

7. Sores That Don’t Heal

A sore or ulcer that doesn’t heal after several weeks, especially in the mouth or on the skin, might be cancerous. Mouth sores that don’t heal, particularly in people who smoke or chew tobacco, can be signs of oral cancer.

8. Unusual Bleeding

Unexplained bleeding can occur in early or advanced stages of cancer. For example:

Coughing up blood may be linked to lung cancer.

Blood in the stool can indicate colon or rectal cancer.

Abnormal vaginal bleeding may suggest uterine or cervical cancer.

Blood in the urine could signal bladder or kidney cancer.

9. Lumps or Swelling

Feeling a lump or thickening in the breast, testicle, lymph nodes, or soft tissues may be the first noticeable symptom of cancer. While many lumps are harmless, they should always be checked by a doctor.

10. Difficulty Swallowing

Difficulty swallowing, or a feeling that food is stuck in the throat or chest, can be related to esophageal or throat cancer. This symptom often worsens over time and may cause unintentional weight loss.

Conclusion

Cancer symptoms can vary depending on the type and location of the disease. Some signs are very subtle and easy to ignore, which is why regular health check-ups and body awareness are essential. If you notice any persistent or unusual symptoms, it’s important to consult a doctor. Early diagnosis can save lives, and being informed is the first step toward protection.