Warning Signs of Cancer

Recognizing early signs and symptoms of different cancers can help in timely diagnosis and treatment. Here’s a general guide to what to look for, along with some specific signs linked to common cancers:

General Warning Signs of Cancer (Often Called the "CAUTION" Signs):

C: Change in bowel or bladder habits
A: A sore that does not heal
U: Unusual bleeding or discharge
T: Thickening or lump in breast or elsewhere
I: Indigestion or difficulty swallowing
O: Obvious change in a wart or mole
N: Nagging cough or hoarseness

Common Signs & Symptoms of Specific Cancers:

Breast Cancer
- Lump or thickening in breast or underarm
- Change in breast size or shape
- Dimpling or puckering of skin
- Nipple discharge or inversion
- Redness or scaling of nipple or breast skin
Lung Cancer
- Persistent cough or change in chronic cough
- Chest pain
- Shortness of breath
- Coughing up blood
- Hoarseness
- Unexplained weight loss
Colorectal Cancer
- Change in bowel habits (diarrhea or constipation)
- Blood in stool (bright red or dark)
- Abdominal discomfort or cramps
- Unexplained weight loss
- Feeling of incomplete bowel evacuation
Cervical Cancer
- Abnormal vaginal bleeding (between periods, after intercourse, or after menopause)
- Unusual vaginal discharge
- Pelvic pain or pain during intercourse
Prostate Cancer
- Difficulty urinating or weak urine flow
- Frequent urination, especially at night
- Blood in urine or semen
- Pain in hips, back, or pelvis
Oral Cancer
- Persistent mouth sores or ulcers
- Red or white patches inside the mouth
- Lump or thickening in cheek
- Difficulty chewing or swallowing
Skin Cancer (Melanoma)
- New or changing mole or spot on the skin
- Asymmetry, irregular borders, multiple colors in mole
- Itching, bleeding, or crusting mole
Ovarian Cancer
- Abdominal bloating or swelling
- Pelvic or abdominal pain
- Difficulty eating or feeling full quickly
- Frequent urination

Important Note:

Symptoms may vary widely and can be caused by conditions other than cancer.
Persistent or unexplained symptoms should prompt a visit to a healthcare professional for proper evaluation.
Early detection greatly improves treatment outcomes.