Cancer is one of the deadliest diseases in the world.
Its biggest challenge is that early symptoms are often subtle or mistaken for minor health issues, causing delays in diagnosis. By the time it is detected, it often reaches advanced stages.
Recognizing the early warning signs of cancer and acting promptly can be life-saving.
On this subject, Dr. Praveen Yadav, Head of Thoracic Surgery and Senior Consultant of Surgical Oncology at Artemis Hospitals, explains that there isn’t a single “first symptom” of cancer.
Rather, cancer can manifest through multiple symptoms, which vary depending on the type and location of the disease.
How Does Cancer Begin?
According to Dr. Yadav, cancer begins when cells in the body start growing uncontrollably.
Normally, the body replaces old or damaged cells with new ones. But when this natural process goes wrong, some cells continue to grow instead of dying. These abnormal cells accumulate to form a lump or tumor, which can later become cancerous.
Early Signs of Cancer That Should Never Be Ignored
To reduce the risk of cancer and ensure timely treatment, it’s crucial to pay attention to the following early symptoms and warning signs:
1. Unexplained Weight Loss
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If your weight is dropping rapidly without any change in diet or exercise, it may be a warning sign.
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Losing more than 10 pounds (around 4.5 kg) unintentionally can sometimes be an early indicator of cancer, particularly pancreatic, stomach, lung, or esophageal cancer.
2. Persistent Fatigue or Weakness
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Feeling constantly tired even after getting enough rest is not normal.
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This kind of fatigue is different from everyday tiredness — it doesn’t improve with rest and may be a sign of cancers such as leukemia or colon cancer.
3. Changes in the Skin
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Pay attention to any unusual changes in your skin, such as:
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A mole changing in size, color, or shape
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A sore or wound that doesn’t heal
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Yellowing (jaundice) or redness of the skin
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These can be early signs of skin cancer or internal cancers affecting the liver or pancreas.
4. Lumps or Swelling
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If you notice a new lump or swelling anywhere on your body — such as in the breast, neck, armpit, or groin — don’t ignore it.
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A lump in the breast or armpit may be associated with breast cancer or lymphatic cancer (lymphoma).
5. Persistent Cough or Breathing Difficulty
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A chronic cough that doesn’t go away or shortness of breath could indicate lung cancer.
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Hoarseness of voice or difficulty swallowing can also be symptoms of throat or esophageal cancer.
6. Changes in Bowel or Urinary Habits
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Long-term changes in bowel habits, such as chronic constipation, diarrhea, or blood in the stool, can be signs of colorectal cancer.
