KARACHI: The International Agency for Research on Cancer estimates that more than 178 000 new cancer cases are diagnosed every year in Pakistan, and there are more than 117 000 cancer deaths annualy.
Cancer is a word that tends to get our attention immediately. Whenever we suspect that something may be wrong with us, the worst-case scenario that runs through our minds often involves cancer. Sometimes cancer can be present for years before it is discovered, and sadly, it is too late for many people when it is discovered that they have cancer that has advanced to the later stages of the disease. It’s crucial to detect cancer in its early stages, and the chances of successful treatment may depend on it. The following are the most common symptoms of cancer.
1. WEIGHT LOSS
It’s important to remember that there could many other reasons for unexplained weight loss besides cancer. No matter what the cause, weight loss that cannot be explained is something you should talk about with a doctor. Generally, a loss of 10 or more pounds is sufficient to warrant a conversation with your doctor.
2. FEVER
Fever is one way the body might react to the presence of cancer. Sometimes it can be an early indicator of cancer, but most of the time a fever means that cancer is spreading from its original spot to other areas of the body.
3. FATIGUE
As cancer grows, it creates an increased demand on the body’s functions which can lead to feelings of weakness and fatigue. Fatigue leaves you feeling worn out even after a good night’s sleep. In some cases, the early stages of leukemia can cause fatigue, making it another one of those symptoms you’ll want to discuss with your doctor.
4. PAIN
Unexplained pain is a sign that often means cancer has spread. Pain is a common symptom of certain cancers such as bone and testicular cancer.
5. SKIN DISORDERS
Skin cancer is not the only kind of cancer that can cause problems with skin. Some symptoms may be as minor as itching, while others are more likely to cause concern, such as jaundice (yellowing of the skin), reddish coloring, darker coloring, and even unusual symptoms like excessive hair growth.
6. BOWEL HABITS
A change in bowel habits could be an indicator of colon cancer. The symptoms can vary quite significantly and include constipation, diarrhea, and changes in the appearance of stool. Any sign of blood in the stool is always cause for concern, and is something that should be talked about with a doctor.
7. BLOODY DISCHARGE
Any blood observed coming from the nipple area could be a sign of breast cancer. It’s also important to note that breast cancer does not only affect women. Although much less common, men can also develop breast cancer and in rarer instances, even children.
8. COUGH
A cough that refuses to go away, or a cough that produces blood are signs of lung cancer. Again, other conditions such as infection can cause these symptoms, but even if you are sure it is not cancer, it’s best to check with your doctor if you experience either of these symptoms.
9. TROUBLE SWALLOWING
Cancer of the esophagus can sometimes cause difficulty swallowing. This is a symptom that can also indicate cancer of the pharynx or stomach as well. Oftentimes, indigestion will also accompany other symptoms that result from these types of cancers.
10. LUMPS
Any lumps or thickening of the tissue in the breasts, lymph nodes, testicles or other soft tissues of the body is cause for concern. There are a great many lumps that are benign and are not a threat to life, but the discovery of new lumps, bumps or other irregularities should always be examined by a doctor.
