LAGOS — Cancer can sometimes develop without obvious symptoms in its early stages, making awareness of unusual changes in the body important for people of all ages.
While many symptoms associated with cancer can also result from less serious health conditions, persistent or unexplained changes should not be ignored. Early medical evaluation can help identify the cause and, where cancer is involved, may improve the chances of timely treatment.
1. Unexplained Weight Loss
Losing a significant amount of weight without deliberately changing diet or exercise habits can sometimes be a warning sign.
Although unexplained weight loss may result from several conditions, persistent or substantial weight loss should be discussed with a healthcare professional.
2. Unusual Lumps or Swellings
A new lump, swelling or thickening in the breast, neck, abdomen, testicles or other parts of the body may require medical assessment.
Not every lump is cancerous, but a lump that persists, grows or changes should be checked rather than ignored.
3. Persistent Unexplained Pain
Pain that continues for an extended period without an obvious cause may require medical attention.
The location and nature of the pain can vary depending on its cause, and persistent pain should not automatically be assumed to be cancer. A healthcare professional can determine whether further investigation is necessary.
4. Unusual Bleeding
Unexpected bleeding, including blood in the stool or urine, coughing up blood or unusual vaginal bleeding, can have different causes.
However, unexplained or recurrent bleeding should be medically evaluated, particularly when it does not resolve.
5. Persistent Changes in Bowel or Bladder Habits
Long-lasting changes in bowel movements or urination may also require attention.
Examples include persistent constipation or diarrhoea, changes in stool appearance, frequent urination, difficulty passing urine or blood in the urine. Such symptoms can have many non-cancerous causes, but persistent changes should be assessed by a healthcare professional.
6. Persistent Fatigue or Other Unexplained Changes
Unusual and continuing tiredness, particularly when it is severe or occurs alongside other unexplained symptoms, may warrant medical evaluation.
Other changes such as persistent cough, difficulty swallowing, recurring fever or changes in the skin may also require attention depending on their duration and severity.
Early Medical Attention Matters
The presence of any of these symptoms does not mean a person has cancer. Many can be caused by infections, hormonal changes, medications and other medical conditions.
However, people should avoid ignoring symptoms simply because they are mild, particularly when they persist, worsen or occur together with other unusual changes.
Regular medical check-ups and appropriate cancer screening based on age, sex, family history and individual risk factors can also help detect some cancers before symptoms become apparent.
The key message is that persistent or unexplained changes should be discussed with a qualified healthcare professional rather than self-diagnosed.
