The term, cancer denotes a collection of large group of over 100 diseases that occur as a result of uncontrolled growth and multiplication of abnormal cells in the body. Primarily, these cancer cells arise due to genetic mutations, although there are other causative factors too. Often, cancer cells have the ability to spread to other sites in the body and are not restricted to their place of origin. This process is called metastasis.

Common Signs & Symptoms of Cancer

Cancer symptoms may differ from one individual to another. In general, the common symptoms of cancer include:

• Fever: Fever usually develops if you have cold or an infection. However, fever that usually occurs at night time and results in night sweats should not be ignored.

• Fatigue: Feeling extremely tired even after a good night’s rest can be the first signs of cancer. The body’s nutrient supply is usually used by cancer cells to grow and advance. This gives an individual a feeling of fatigue.

• Loss of appetite: Not feeling hungry can be due to infections such as flu but often, it can be a sign of cancer. If this feeling persists, it is recommended to seek medical advice.

• Pain: Persistent pain could be due to an underlying disease. Cancer can result in pain in your body if:

i. A tumor or mass is pushing other areas of the body
ii. There are certain chemicals released by cancer cells in the body
iii. Metastasis is occurring inside the body and cancer is spreading from its place of origin

If you are experiencing pain that doesn’t go away, it is advisable to consult your healthcare professional.

• Appearance or changes in moles: Moles that change appearance or form need to be carefully evaluated. So, it is important to look for changes in the moles such as jagged edges, irregular borders, changes in size or shape, etc.

• Unexplained weight loss: When you begin to lose weight for no apparent reason, it can be a cause for alarm. If the weight loss is significant, it is best to see your healthcare provider.

Other symptoms related to organ-specific cancers in males and females have been mentioned below.

in males

• Blood in urine or stool: Presence of blood in faeces or urine may indicate cancer such as colorectal cancer, prostate cancer, and bladder or kidney cancer.

• Coughing up blood: Blood that is coughed up or vomited can be a sign of lung cancer.

in Females

• Blood in urine or stool: Blood in the urine or stool in women may be indicative of colorectal cancer or bladder cancer. Sometimes, women experience unexplained vaginal bleeding between periods, after sex, or post menopause, indicating gynaecological cancers.

• Appearance of lumps or bumps in the breast: Lumps or changes in the breast, including dimpling or thickening of skin in the breast, may be indicative of breast cancer. Other than this, redness, unusual discharge from the breast or pain in the breast can also be warning signs of breast cancer.

Signs and symptoms of cancer are common in both males and females, except for some organ-specific cancers in both genders. Recognizing the early signs and symptoms of cancer in both men and women can be life-saving. It is important to identify and seek medical help as soon as you notice any abnormal changes in your body. Early detection often leads to more treatment options, better outcomes, and higher survival rates. Ultimately, staying informed, paying attention to your body, and seeking medical aid when something seems amiss are powerful steps in protecting your health.