Cancer affects all of us in some way

Whether or not you have personally ever been tested, diagnosed or treated for cancer, you will usually know someone who has.

According to the NHS, 1 in 2 of us will develop some form of cancer in our lifetime. There are over 200 types of cancer, but the most common are breast cancer, lung cancer, prostate cancer and bowel cancer.

Knowledge and awareness of cancer symptoms can be vital in getting an early diagnosis, as it can dramatically improve the options and success of treatment.

In this article, we will be looking at symptoms to watch out for, when it’s important to seek medical assistance and less common symptoms that could be mistaken for other conditions.

What is cancer?

Cancer is a group of diseases characterised by the uncontrolled growth and spread of abnormal cells. It can develop in any part of the body and has a variety of causes including genetic mutations, exposure to environmental factors such as tobacco, radiation or chemicals, and viruses.

There are many different types of cancer, each with distinct characteristics and varying treatment options. Treatment options may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and targeted therapy, depending on the type and stage of the cancer.

The earlier cancer is detected, the better the chances of successful treatment

Know your body

You know your body better than anyone else, so if something doesn’t feel right or you develop new or worrying symptoms, it’s important to seek medical care quickly.

There are many types of cancer, with varying symptoms which could also be caused by other conditions, so it can be difficult to know whether a symptom could be cancer, or you may feel embarrassed or anxious discussing this with your GP.

However, early detection and prompt treatment can improve outcomes and increase the chances of survival, so the sooner you see your doctor, the sooner you can get some answers.

If your GP believes it could be cancer, they will refer to you to a specialist for further investigation. If it’s nothing serious, your doctor can simply provide some reassurance.

How do you know what symptoms to worry about?

Not all symptoms are going to be cancer or a serious condition, but you should be aware if your symptoms are:

Ongoing

These are symptoms lasting more than 3 weeks.

Unexplained

These are symptoms with no obvious cause, such as bleeding with no injury or a strange swelling or lump.

Unusual Changes

Any change in your body which is not normal, such as a change in a long-lasting cough or visible changes to a mole.

Symptoms of cancer

The signs and symptoms of cancer can vary depending on the type and location of the cancer, but some common ones include:

• Changes in bowel or bladder habits

• Unusual bleeding or discharge

• Lumps, thickening or unusual growths

• Persistent changes in a mole or skin lesion

• Itchy or yellow skin

• Unexplained fatigue and feeling unwell

• Unexplained pain that does not go away

• Skin changes, such as yellowing or darkening

• Persistent coughing or hoarseness

• Coughing, chest pain and breathlessness

• Trouble eating or swallowing

• Persistent changes in a mole or skin lesion
  

Less common indicators of cancer

Some signs of cancer can be harder to detect or may be mistaken for other, less serious conditions, including:

Fatigue

This can be a subtle and gradual onset and may be attributed to other causes such as stress or lack of sleep.

Painless lumps

Painless lumps or thickening: Cancerous tumours may not cause pain in the early stages and may only be detected during a physical examination or imaging test.

Indigestion or difficulty swallowing

These symptoms may be mistaken for common digestive problems, such as acid reflux or heartburn.

Changes in bladder or bowel habits

A change in frequency, consistency, or colour of bowel movements may be dismissed as a temporary digestive issue.

Unexplained weight loss

This may be mistaken for intentional weight loss or normal fluctuations in weight.

Persistent coughing or hoarseness

These symptoms may be attributed to a cold or respiratory infection. If your cough changes or lasts longer than 3 weeks, it's time to see your doctor.

Always speak to your GP if you have any concerns

It's important to be aware of changes in your body and to seek medical attention if you experience any unusual or persistent symptoms.