What are the Early Signs of Cancer?

Early signs of cancer include unexplained weight loss, persistent fatigue, changes in skin, persistent cough or hoarseness, pain, and changes in bowel or bladder habits. Recognising the signs and symptoms in the initial stages can lead to timely diagnosis and intervention, potentially saving lives.

Cancer is considered to be the leading cause of death, worldwide and it can affect anyone, regardless of age or gender. Some cancers are hereditary, while others are caused by environmental factors and lifestyle choices. An uncontrolled growth pattern leads to the spread of abnormal cells in the body. Understanding the early signs of cancer and seeking prompt medical attention can significantly increase the chances of successful treatment and recovery.

What is Cancer?

Cancer is a disease that is characterised by the uncontrolled growth of cells in the body and the formation of tumours. These tumours can be benign or malignant in nature, that is, they can either be non-cancerous or cancerous respectively. Malignant tumours can invade nearby tissues and spread to other parts of the body through the blood and lymph systems.

Early Signs of Cancer

It is difficult to diagnose cancer at an early stage because the symptoms depend on the type of cancer and the affected organ. However, there are some warning signs that should not be overlooked and they are:

• Unexplained Weight Loss: Weight loss without any apparent reason is one of the early signs of cancer, especially pancreatic, stomach, oesophageal, or lung cancer.
• Chronic Fatigue: Fatigue that does not go away with rest and is not linked to exercise or other diseases may be leukaemia, colon cancer, or stomach cancer.
• Changes in Skin: Skin discolouration, darkening, yellowing or redness, non-healing sores, and changes in the size, shape, colour, or texture of a mole or wart may be early signs of skin cancer or other internal malignancies.
• Persistent Cough or Hoarseness: If you are experiencing a cough that does not disappear or if you have a hoarse voice, it may be due to lung cancer or cancer of the larynx or thyroid.
• Unexplained Pain: Abnormal and continuous pain is one of the symptoms of bone cancer or testicular cancer. One of the symptoms of a brain tumour is chronic headaches.
• Changes in Bowel or Bladder Habits: Symptoms like blood in the stool or urine, constipation or diarrhoea that persists, and changes in the size or frequency of bowel movements may be indicative of colon, bladder, or prostate cancer.

Specific Early Symptoms for Different Types of Cancer

Given are some cancer-type specific symptoms:

1.     Breast Cancer

• New lumps or thickening in the breast or underarm.
• Noticeable changes in the size, shape, or appearance of the breast.
• Unusual discharge from the nipple, which may be bloody.

1. Prostate Cancer

• Trouble starting or stopping urination.
• Especially at night.
• Pain or burning sensation during urination.

3.     Colorectal Cancer

• Bright red or very dark blood in the stool.
• Persistent cramps, gas, or pain in the abdomen.
• Persistent changes such as diarrhoea, constipation, or narrowing of the stool.

1. Lung Cancer

• Coughing up blood
• Persistent breathlessness or wheezing.
• Pain that worsens with deep breathing, coughing, or laughing.

Importance of Regular Screenings for Cancer Detection

Screening tests can help find cancer early before the person develops symptoms and the cancer can be treated. Mammograms, colonoscopy, and Pap smears are examples of screenings that are useful in early identification of cancer.

Recommended Screenings

• Breast Cancer: Annual mammograms beginning at the age of 40.
• Cervical Cancer: Pap smears and HPV tests at the age of 21 and above.
• Colorectal Cancer: Screening colonoscopies beginning at the age of 50.
• Prostate Cancer: PSA blood tests and digital rectal exams for men beginning at the age of 50.

For specialised cancer care, consult Dr Joydeep Ghosh, the best oncologist in Kolkata.

When to Seek Medical Help?

If you experience any of the symptoms mentioned or have any other health concerns, it is advisable to seek medical attention from an oncologist (a doctor who has special training in diagnosing and treating cancer). Screening is very important because it can help in early diagnosis, which can go a long way toward improving the course of the disease.

Risk Factors Associated with Cancer

Some of the factors that lead to the development of cancer include:

• Family history of cancer
• Smoking
• Excessive use of alcohol
• Poor diet
• Exposure to harmful chemicals

Diagnostic Tests to Detect Cancer

An oncologist may perform the following diagnostic tests to detect cancer cells:

• Biopsy: Taking a small piece of tissue for microscopic analysis.
• Blood Tests: Identifying cancer markers and other abnormalities in the blood.
• Imaging Tests: X-rays, CT scans, MRIs, and ultrasounds to create detailed images of the inside of the body.

Treatment Options for Cancer

An oncologist may recommend treatment options for cancer, such as:

• Surgery: Surgery involves the removal of the tumour and the adjacent tissue.
• Radiation Therapy: Employing high-energy rays to eliminate cancer cells.
• Chemotherapy: The process of employing drugs to destroy or prevent the growth of cancer cells.
• Immunotherapy: Increasing the body’s ability to fight cancer with the help of the body’s own immune system.
• Targeted Therapy: Employing drugs that can selectively act on genes or proteins that are related to cancer development.

It is important to know the symptoms of cancer and seek medical help as soon as possible to increase the likelihood of a favourable outcome. Conditions like sudden loss of weight, constant tiredness, skin changes, and pain that have no cause should not be overlooked. Screening and maintaining a healthy lifestyle are important in avoiding cancer and identifying it at an early stage.

For comprehensive cancer care and expert advice, book an appointment, through Apollo, with Dr Joydeep Ghosh, the best oncologist in Kolkata. Detection and treatment at the initial stages are the best ways to fight cancer.