How to recognize the first signs of cancer

Chapter 1: General understanding of cancer and its cunning

Cancer is not a single disease, but a group of more than 100 diseases characterized by uncontrolled growth and the spread of abnormal cells. These cells can affect almost any organ or tissue in the body. The key aspect is that cancer is often developing imperceptibly, and the early signs can be so thin that they are easy to skip or connect with less serious conditions. Understanding this fact and awareness of the importance of vigilance in relation to your health is the first step towards early detection.

1.1. Cancer Biology: Brief Review

In normal condition, cells grow, share and die in an orderly way. This process is controlled by genes that regulate the cell cycle. Cancer occurs when mutations occur in these genes that violate normal control mechanisms. As a result, cells begin to share uncontrollably, forming a tumor. A malignant tumor has the ability to penetrate the surrounding tissues and spread (metastasize) into other parts of the body through a blood or lymphatic system.

1.2. Risk factors for cancer

Many factors can increase the risk of cancer. Some of them are inevitable, for example, age and genetic predisposition. However, many other factors are associated with the way of life and the environment and, therefore, are potentially amenable to change. These include:

Age: The risk of cancer is increased with age.
Genetics: The presence of certain genetic mutations can significantly increase the risk of developing certain types of cancer (for example, breast cancer, ovaries, colon).
Smoking: The main risk factor for the development of lung cancer, as well as many other types of cancer (larynx, oral cavity, esophagus, bladder, kidneys, pancreas).
Alcohol consumption: Increases the risk of developing cancer of the oral cavity, pharynx, esophagus, liver, mammary gland and colon.
Diet: A diet with a high content of fat, treated meat and a lack of fruits and vegetables can increase the risk of cancer.
Obesity: It is associated with an increased risk of developing breast cancer (after menopause), colon, endometrium, kidneys, esophagus and pancreas.
The effect of ultraviolet radiation: The main risk factor for the development of skin cancer.
The effect of chemicals: Some chemicals, such as asbestos, benzene and vinyl chloride, can increase the risk of cancer.
Infections: Some infections, such as human papillomans (HPV), hepatitis B and C, and Helicobacter pylori virus, can increase the risk of cancer.
Chronic inflammation: Chronic inflammation caused by states as ulcer and Crohn’s disease can increase the risk of developing colon cancer.
Immunosuppression: People with a weakened immune system (for example, after transplantation of organs or under HIV infection) have an increased risk of developing certain types of cancer.

1.3. The importance of early detection

Early detection of cancer is a critical factor that determines the prognosis of the disease. When cancer is found at an early stage, it is usually less common and easier to treat. The success of treatment in the early stages is much higher than in later, when cancer has spread to other organs. Early detection also allows you to use less aggressive treatment methods, which can improve the quality of the patient.

Chapter 2: General signs and symptoms of cancer

There is no universal set of symptoms indicating cancer. Symptoms vary depending on the type of cancer, its location and stage of development. However, there are common signs and symptoms that should alert and become a reason for seeking a doctor. It is important to remember that the presence of one or more of these symptoms does not necessarily mean that you have cancer. However, you should not ignore them.

2.1. Inexplicable weight loss

Losses of weight for no apparent reason, such as a change in a diet or increasing physical activity, may be a sign of cancer. Loss of more than 4.5 kg (10 pounds) without explanation requires attention. It is especially important to consult a doctor if weight loss occurs quickly. This may be due to cancer of the stomach, pancreas, esophagus or lungs. Cancer consumes body energy, which leads to weight loss.

2.2. Constant fatigue

A feeling of fatigue that does not pass after rest can be a sign of cancer. This is not just the usual fatigue that can be felt after a tense day. This is a deep, exhausting fatigue that interferes with everyday activity. It can be associated with blood cancer (leukemia), cancer of the colon or other types of cancer. Cancer can cause anemia, which leads to fatigue.

2.3. Pain

Constant pains that are not associated with injury or other known causes may be a sign of cancer. The type and localization of pain depends on the type of cancer and its location. For example, headaches can be associated with brain cancer, bones in bones – with bone cancer, and abdominal cancer – with pancreatic cancer or liver. Although pains are more common in the later stages of cancer, they can occur in the early stages, especially if the cancer presses on nerves or organs.

2.4. Skin changes

Pay attention to any changes on the skin, such as:

New moles or changes in existing moles: Changes in the size, shape, color or boundaries of the mole, as well as the appearance of itching or bleeding, can be signs of melanoma. You should be guided by the ABCDE rule: A (asymmetry), B (uneven edges), C (color change), D (diameter more than 6 mm), E (evolution).
Non -healing ulcers: Ulcers that do not heal for several weeks can be signs of skin cancer.
Thickening or sealing under the skin: Especially if they are new or increase in size.
Change of skin color: Yellowing of the skin (jaundice) can be a sign of liver cancer or pancreas. The darkening of the skin (hyperpigmentation) may be associated with some types of cancer.
Redness, itching or pain: In certain areas of the skin not related to known causes.

2.5. Changes in the work of the intestines or bladder

Any changes in the work of the intestines or bladder that do not pass within a few weeks should be evaluated by the doctor. These include:

Constipation or diarrhea that do not pass: It may be associated with cancer of the colon or rectum.
Blood in a chair or urine: Blood in the chair can be a sign of cancer of the colon or rectum. Blood in the urine can be a sign of bladder or kidney cancer.
Changing the size or shape of the chair: A narrow chair can be a sign of colon cancer.
Frequent or painful urination: It may be a sign of bladder cancer.
Incontinence: Loss of control over the bladder or intestines.

2.6. Permanent cough or hoarse voice

A constant cough that does not pass within a few weeks, especially if it is accompanied by blood, can be a sign of lung cancer. The hoarse of the voice, which does not pass, may be a sign of larynx or thyroid cancer. It is important to distinguish these symptoms from the symptoms of ordinary cold or influenza.

2.7. Difficult swallowing

Difficult swallowing (dysphagia), especially if it progresses, can be a sign of esophagus or stomach cancer. It may also be associated with cancer of the larynx or thyroid gland. The feeling that the food is stuck in the throat, or the need to drink food with water is reasons for seeking a doctor.

2.8. Inexplicable bleeding or discharge

Inexplicable bleeding or discharge from any part of the body should be evaluated by a doctor. These include:

Blood in sputum: It may be a sign of lung cancer.
Blood from the nipple: It may be a sign of breast cancer.
Unusual vaginal bleeding: It may be a sign of uterine cancer or cervix.
Blood in the stomach (vomiting with blood): It can be a sign of stomach or esophagus cancer.
Bleeding from the nose for no reason: It may be a sign of cancer of the nasopharynx.

2.9. Seals or tumors

Any seals or tumors that can be felt under the skin, especially in the area of the mammary gland, testicles, lymph nodes (armpits, neck, groin), must be evaluated by the doctor. Not all seals are cancer, but they must be examined in order to exclude a malignant tumor. It is especially important to pay attention to seals that grow quickly or are painful.

2.10. Digestive or heartburn

Constant digestive disorders, such as heartburn, stomach disorder, nausea or vomiting that do not pass, can be signs of stomach cancer, esophagus or pancreas. It is important to distinguish these symptoms from the usual disorder of the stomach associated with food.

2.11. Night sweating

Abundant night sweating, not associated with the temperature in the room or other known causes, may be a sign of lymphoma or leukemia. This is not just a slight sweating, but abundant sweating, which makes you wake up and change clothes.

2.12. Long non -healing wounds

For long non -healing wounds or ulcers can be a sign of skin cancer or other types of cancer. It is necessary to consult a doctor if the wound does not heal for several weeks or months.

2.13. Subfebrile temperature

A long increase in body temperature to 37-37.5 degrees for no apparent reason can be a sign of leukemia or lymphoma.

Chapter 3: specific signs and symptoms of the most common types of cancer

In addition to the general signs and symptoms of cancer, there are specific signs and symptoms that may indicate specific types of cancer. Knowing these signs and symptoms can help in the early detection of these diseases.

3.1. Breast cancer

Seal or tumor in the mammary gland or armpit: The most common symptom of breast cancer.
Changing the size or shape of the mammary gland: Especially if this happens only with one mammary gland.
Nipple drawing: The nipple can be pulled inside the mammary gland.
Separation from the nipple: Especially if these are bloody discharge.
Military gland skin change: The skin can be reddened, wrinkled or peeling (symptom of “lemon peel”).
Breast pain: Although the pain is not a common symptom, it can occur.

3.2. Lung cancer

Permanent cough: Especially if it worsens over time.
Blood in sputum: Cough with blood.
Pain in the chest: The pain that increases with deep breathing or cough.
Hoarse voice: Not passing hoarse.
Difficult breathing: Dyspnea.
Repeating infections: For example, bronchitis or pneumonia.
Walking breathing: Walking sounds when breathing.

3.3. Colon and rectum cancer

Changing the work of the intestine: Constipation or diarrhea that do not pass.
Blood in the chair: Bright red or dark blood in a chair.
Changing the size or shape of the chair: Narrow chair.
Abdominal pain: Constant abdominal pain or spasms.
Inexplicable weight loss: Weight loss for no apparent reason.
Fatigue: A constant feeling of fatigue.
Anemia: Low level of iron in the blood.

3.4. Prostate cancer

Frequent urination: Especially at night.
Difficult urination: A weak stream of urine or intermittent urination.
Pain during urination: Burning or pain during urination.
Blood in the urine or sperm: A rare symptom, but it can occur.
Back pain, hips or pelvis: May indicate the spread of cancer.
Erectile dysfunction: Problems with the achievement or maintenance of an erection.

3.5. Skin cancer (melanoma)

New mole: The appearance of a new mole, especially if it looks unusual.
Changing the existing mole: Changing the size, shape, color or boundaries of the mole.
Itching, bleeding or pain in the mole: Any unusual sensations in the mole.
Non -healing ulcer: An ulcer that does not heal for several weeks.

3.6. Cervical cancer

Unusual vaginal bleeding: Bleeding between menstruation, after intercourse or after menopause.
Unusual vaginal discharge: Selection that have an unpleasant odor or unusual color.
Pain during intercourse: Pain for sexual intercourse.
Pain in the basin: Constant pain in the basin.

3.7. Endometry cancer (uterine cancer)

Unusual vaginal bleeding: Bleeding after menopause, bleeding between menstruation or abundant menstruation.
Vaginal discharge: Watery or bloody discharge.
Pain in the basin: Pain in the lower abdomen.

3.8. Ovarian cancer

Abdominal pain or pelvis: Constant abdominal pain or pelvis.
Bloating: A constant feeling of swelling of the abdomen.
Frequent urination: Frequent desire to urinate.
Constipation: Problems with intestinal emptying.
Inexplicable weight loss: Weight loss for no apparent reason.
Fatigue: A constant feeling of fatigue.

3.9. Stomach cancer

Loss of appetite: Loss of interest in food.
Inexplicable weight loss: Weight loss for no apparent reason.
Abdominal pain: Pain in the upper abdomen.
Nausea and vomiting: Frequent nausea and vomiting.
A feeling of crowded after a small amount of food: Fast saturation.
Blood in a chair or vomiting: Blood in a chair or vomiting.
Heartburn: Frequent heartburn.
Indigestion: Indigestion.

3.10. Pancreatic cancer

Abdominal pain: Pain in the upper abdomen, which can be given in the back.
Yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice): Yellowing of the skin and eyes.
Loss of appetite: Loss of interest in food.
Inexplicable weight loss: Weight loss for no apparent reason.
Nausea and vomiting: Frequent nausea and vomiting.
Dark urine: Dark urine.
Light chair: A light chair.
Diabetes sugar: Sudden development of diabetes.

Chapter 4: Cancer Diagnostics

If you notice any of the above signs or symptoms, it is important to consult a doctor as soon as possible. The doctor will conduct an examination and may prescribe a number of diagnostic tests to determine the cause of your symptoms. These tests may include:

4.1. Medical examination

The doctor will conduct a thorough medical examination to evaluate your general health and identify any signs of cancer. It can feel the lymph nodes, inspect the skin and evaluate the work of the organs. During the examination, the doctor will ask questions about your medical history, lifestyle and family history of cancer.

4.2. Blood tests

Blood tests can help identify anomalies that may indicate cancer. For example, a general blood test can show anemia that can be associated with cancer. Blood tests can also help identify cancer markers – substances that are produced by cancer cells. However, oncarkers are not always a reliable indicator of cancer, since they can be increased in other diseases.

4.3. Visualization studies

Visualization studies allow doctors to see internal organs and tissues and identify the presence of tumors. These include:

X-rays: Uses x -rays to create images of internal organs and bones. X -ray can be used to identify tumors in the lungs, bones and other organs.
Computed tomography (CT): Uses X -rays and a computer to create detailed images of internal organs and tissues. CT can be used to identify tumors in almost any part of the body.
Magnetic resonance tomography (MRI): Uses a magnetic field and radio waves to create detailed images of internal organs and tissues. MRI can be used to detect tumors in the brain, spinal cord, mammary gland and other organs.
Ultrasound examination (ultrasound): Uses sound waves to create images of internal organs and tissues. Ultrasound can be used to identify tumors in the liver, kidneys, ovaries and other organs.
Positron emission tomography (PET): Uses a radioactive substance to identify areas of increased metabolic activity, which may indicate cancer. PET is often used in combination with CT (PET-KT).

4.4. Biopsy

A biopsy is a procedure in which a sample of tissue is taken for research under a microscope. A biopsy is the only way to confirm the diagnosis of cancer. There are various types of biopsy, depending on the location of the tumor.

Incision Biopsy: A small piece of tumor fabric is taken.
Excisio biopsy: The whole tumor is removed.
I needle biopsy: A thin needle is inserted into the tumor for a fabric sample.
Bone marrow aspiration biopsy: A sample of bone marrow for research is taken.
Liquid biopsy: Blood test for detecting cancer cells or DNA of cancer cells.

4.5. Endoscopy

Endoscopy is a procedure in which a thin flexible tube with a camera at the end (endoscope) for examining internal organs is introduced into the body. Endoscopy can be used to examine the esophagus, stomach, colon, bronchi and other organs. During endoscopy, you can take tissue samples for biopsy.

Chapter 5: Cancer Prevention

Although not all types of cancer can be prevented, there are measures that can be taken to reduce the risk of developing this disease. Cancer prevention includes a healthy lifestyle, regular examinations and vaccination.

5.1. A healthy lifestyle

Do not smoke: Smoking is the main risk factor for the development of many types of cancer. Refusal of smoking is one of the most important steps that you can take to reduce the risk of cancer.
Limit alcohol use: The use of a large amount of alcohol increases the risk of developing oral cancer, pharynx, esophagus, liver, mammary gland and colon.
Adhere to a healthy diet: Use a lot of fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Limit the consumption of meat, treated meat and sweet drinks.
Maintain healthy weight: Obesity is associated with an increased risk of developing breast cancer (after menopause), colon, endometrium, kidneys, esophagus and pancreas.
Be physically active: Regular physical activity helps to maintain healthy weight and reduces the risk of cancer.
Protect the skin from the sun: Limit the time of stay in the sun, especially in the middle of the day. Use a high -protection sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) and wear protective clothes.

5.2. Regular examinations

Regular examinations can help identify cancer at an early stage when it is most treated. Recommendations for cancer examinations depend on age, gender, family history and other risk factors. Discuss with your doctor what examinations you need. They may include:

Mammography: Breast cancer screening.
Colonoscopy: Screening for colon and rectum cancer.
PAP test: Screening for cervical cancer.
PSA-Test: Screening for prostate cancer.
Military gland self -examination: Regular feeling of the mammary glands to detect any changes.
Self -examination of the skin: Regular examination of the skin to identify any new moles or changes in existing moles.

5.3. Vaccination

Vaccination can help protect against some types of cancer caused by infections. These include:

Human papilloma vaccine against the virus (HPV): Protects with cancer of the cervix, vagina, vulva, anus, oral cavity and throat.
Hepatitis B virus vaccine: Protects from liver cancer.

Chapter 6: When to see a doctor

It is important not to ignore suspicious signs and symptoms and consult a doctor in a timely manner. Do not postpone the visit to the doctor, even if you feel good. Early detection of cancer is the key to successful treatment.

Consult a doctor if you notice:

Any of the above common features and symptoms of cancer.
Specific signs and symptoms indicating a specific type of cancer.
Any other unusual or inexplicable changes in your health.

Feel free to ask the doctor questions about your symptoms, risk factors and possible examination and treatment options. Be an active participant in your health and do not allow fear or anxiety to interfere with you to seek medical help.

This article is designed to provide general information about the early signs of cancer. It should not be used for self -diagnosis or self -medication. Always consult a doctor to receive an individual medical consultation.

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