Novel Moles? Constant Coughing? Six Indicators of Early Cancer Warning That You Should Never Ignore

Six Indicators of Early Cancer Warning: The C-word is enough to make even the toughest of us quiver. A complex group of diseases, cancer is the second biggest killer in the world according to the World Health Organization (WHO).

The WHO describes cancer as "a large group of diseases that can start in almost any organ or tissue of the body when abnormal cells grow uncontrollably, go beyond their usual boundaries to invade adjoining parts of the body and/or spread to other organs".

Early detection is key with this disease as spreading to other organs - metastasizing - is the biggest killer.

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Don’t ignore the warning signs of cancer. Dr Trinanjan Basu, HOD and Senior Consultant - Radiation Oncology at HCG Cancer Centre in Borivali, shares, "Cancer is a complex disease that often shows subtle symptoms, which, if detected early, can significantly improve the chances of successful treatment. While cancer may not have highly distinctive signs, it’s important to stay vigilant and be aware of the following potential warning signs."

Dr Trinanjan Basu lists six warning signs of cancer that one should watch out for.

1. Unexplained Weight Loss

A sudden and significant weight loss without any change in diet or physical activity can be an early sign of several types of cancer like stomach, pancreatic, lung or esophageal cancer.

2. Persistent Fatigue

Everyone gets tired sometimes, but cancer related fatigue is different. It’s persistent, doesn’t improve with rest and can be a sign of blood cancers like leukemia or lymphoma or cancers that cause blood loss like colon or stomach cancer.

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3. Unusual Bleeding or Discharge

Unexplained bleeding — whether it’s coughing up blood, finding blood in your stool or urine or abnormal vaginal bleeding — should never be ignored. These could be signs of lung, colorectal or cervical cancers.

4. Changes in Skin

New moles, changes in the size or colour of existing moles or any other skin changes like unusual sores that don’t heal can be early indicators of skin cancer. Watch out for any unusual skin growths.

5. Persistent Cough Or Hoarseness

A cough that lasts more than a few weeks especially with blood can be a warning sign of lung cancer. A persistent hoarseness in your voice can be a sign of throat or laryngeal cancer.

6. Lumps Or Thickening

A new lump or thickening in the breast, testicles or any other part of the body should be seen by a doctor.

"If any of these signs lead to a cancer diagnosis, various treatment options are available depending on the type and stage of the cancer. Early detection, paired with advanced treatments, can make a significant difference in outcomes," Dr Trinanjan Basu says.

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