Early Detection Is The Best Defense Against Cancer; 10 Crucial Warning Signs

Cancer can be a life-changing event for a person. It becomes difficult to deal with the disease while simultaneously trying to fit into society without facing stigmatization.

The simplest cancer definition, detailed by the National Cancer Institute is that "It is a disease in which some of the body’s cells grow uncontrollably and spread to other parts of the body.”

“Cancer can start almost anywhere in the human body, which is made up of trillions of cells. Normally, human cells grow and multiply (through a process called cell division) to form new cells as the body needs them. When cells grow old or become damaged, they die, and new cells take their place.

“Sometimes this orderly process breaks down, and abnormal or damaged cells grow and multiply when they shouldn’t. These cells may form tumours, which are lumps of tissue. Tumors can be cancerous or not cancerous (benign).”

Besides all the expensive cancer treatments that will burn a hole in your pocket in the later stage, one of the best defenses to fight against cancer viruses is to detect them early.

Keep check of these 10 cancer symptoms to stay healthy…

Breast changes - If you notice changes in your breast such as unusual lumps and discharge, discolouration, and changes around the nipple, it could be a sign! Although this symptoms are commonly seen in women, even men are at high risk of developing breast cancer. 

Unusual lumps - A lump without reason around your neck, groin, and armpits, which does not go away in days is a sign you must see your doctor.

Unexplained weight loss - Cancer and weight loss are always interconnected. If you're not trying to lose weight and can see a drastic weight loss it could also suggest different types of cancers.

Fatigue - Even after a good rest if you persistently feel fatigued it could be a sign of lymphoma or leukaemia, as per reports.

Skin changes - It is essential to check your skin from time and again to prevent skin cancer. The National Cancer Institute suggests the "ABCDE" rule to describe the features of early melanoma: “Asymmetry: One half does not match the other half. Irregular border: The edges are often ragged, notched, or blurred in outline. The pigment may spread into the surrounding skin. Uneven colour: Shades of black, brown, and tan may be present. Areas of white, grey, red, pink, or blue may also be seen. Diameter: There is a change in size, usually an increase. Melanomas can be tiny, but most are larger than 6 millimetres wide (about 1/4 inch wide). Evolving: The mole has changed over the past few weeks or months.”

Oral changes - Sore, lesions or painful areas in the mouth could be a symptom of numerous oral cancers. See a doctor immediately!

Excessive bruising - If you're noticing a random excessive bruising it could be a sign of blood cancers.

Chronic coughing - A dry cough is always linked to lung cancer. Watch out if it persists for more than two weeks.

Changes in bathroom habits - Colon cancer, Prostate cancer, and Bladder cancer are some of the reasons one could notice a shift in bathroom habits. 

Frequent fevers or infections - frequently getting affected by virals from one fever to another is a sign of a weak immune system often resulting in leukaemia or lymphoma.