8 Potential Cancer Symptoms You Should Never Ignore
Meta Description: Are you ignoring early warning signs? Experts from
Cancer Research UK
reveal 8 symptoms you must check with a doctor immediately, from unexplained
weight loss to skin changes. Early detection saves lives.
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| 8 Potential Cancer Symptoms You Should Never Ignore |
8 Potential Cancer Symptoms You Should Never Ignore
The Danger of Delaying Diagnosis
A recent study has revealed a concerning trend: a
significant number of people are delaying medical screenings for potential
early cancer symptoms. The primary reasons cited include the difficulty of securing
an appointment with a General Practitioner (GP) or a tendency to downplay the
severity of their health concerns.
Research conducted by Cancer Research UK, which surveyed 6,844 people via
YouGov, highlighted these barriers:
- 53% anticipated difficulty in booking a doctor’s
appointment.
- 47% actually experienced these difficulties.
- 44% believed their symptoms were not serious.
- 43% felt they could manage the symptoms on their
own.
In light of these
findings, Megan Winter, Health Information Manager at
Cancer Research UK,
emphasizes a crucial message: "If you notice a change that isn't normal for
you, tell your doctor."
Listen to Your Body
Cancer symptoms vary widely and manifest
differently in every individual. Winter advises, "Listen to your body. If
you spot something unusual or something that just doesn't feel right, contact
your doctor."
Here are 8 warning signs that should always be evaluated
by a medical professional.
1.
Unusual Lumps or Swelling
"If you notice a new lump or unusual swelling
anywhere on your body, you need to get it checked by a primary care
physician," advises Winter.
- What to look for: Pay close attention to lumps around the
breast, under the armpit, or near the collarbone. While often benign,
these need to be ruled out for breast cancer or other conditions.
2. Unexplained
Weight Loss or Fatigue
General symptoms that affect the whole body are
often overlooked.
- The red flag: "If you are losing weight without
trying (i.e., not on a diet) or feeling constantly exhausted, this is an
indicator that requires a doctor's review," says Winter.
3. Unexplained
Bruising
While bumps and scrapes are normal, spontaneous
bruising is not.
- The red flag: If you bruise easily without any physical
injury or trauma, this falls under general cancer symptoms that require
investigation.
4. Changes in
Bowel Habits
Digestive changes are common, but persistent
changes are a warning sign.
- What to look for: "If you experience constipation more
than usual, increased bowel frequency, or see blood in your stool or
urine, tell your doctor," Winter explains.
- Other bleeding: This also applies to unexplained vaginal
bleeding between periods or after sexual intercourse.
5. Breathlessness
Respiratory issues shouldn't be ignored,
especially if they occur during mundane tasks.
- The red flag: Experiencing shortness of breath without a
clear reason while doing daily activities—like household chores—is a
symptom that needs medical assessment.
6. Persistent Cough
A cough is often dismissed as a cold, but duration
matters.
- The timeline: "If a cough lasts for more than three
weeks without clearing up, changes in nature, or gets progressively worse,
it is important to see a doctor," states Winter.
7. Unexplained Pain
As we age, aches and pains become more common.
However, Winter notes that "any unexplained pain, or pain that persists
for a long time anywhere in the body, could be a sign of a more serious health
issue."
8. Skin Changes
Skin cancer is one of the most common forms of
cancer, yet often visible early.
- What to look for: "If you notice an unusual change
anywhere on your skin—such as a spot changing in color or texture—or a
sore that won't heal, do not ignore it."
- Note: Cancer Research UK provides detailed guides on
specific symptoms related to
- Melanoma.
Which
Doctor Should You Visit First?
Your General Practitioner (GP) should always be your first point
of contact for health anxieties.
Despite the reported difficulties in booking
appointments, Winter urges persistence. "There are many ways to contact
your doctor today, whether by phone, online, or in person. It is not your job
to diagnose yourself—that is the doctor’s expertise. Do not be afraid to share
your concerns; it is never a waste of time."
Why Early Detection is Vital
"Listening to your body and discussing
changes with your doctor can play a decisive role in your health
outcomes," concludes Winter.
In most cases, the cause will not be cancer.
However, if it is, detecting it early makes a massive difference in
the success of the treatment journey.
Don't wait—get checked.
