Early Symptoms of Cancers: Cancer is regarded as a very big health concern in India, with the number of cases registered every year increasing. Most problematic is the fact that many patients are diagnosed at an advanced stage, and they would be able to be treated. Identifying early symptoms and red flags may thus improve the survival rates and get patients to their timely medical intervention.
Breast cancer is the most common type of cancer in Indian women. The signs of warning are a lump in the breast or underarm; unusual discharge or unexpected changes in skin dimpling; or in the shape of the nipple. Self-examinations and mammograms after 40 years need to be recommended very strongly.
Oral Cancer
More cases of oral cancer exist in India due to the widespread use of tobacco and betel nut. Symptoms to be alarmed with are mouth ulcers that last for more than two weeks, red or white patches, difficult swallowing, and bleeding from the mouth. Currently, there is a possibility to have dental check-ups that can greatly assist in the detection of possible oral cancers.
Commonly, lung cancer is associated with smoking and air pollution. It has symptoms of persistent cough, blood in the sputum, chest pain, and dyspnea. Chronic smoking people and also passive smokers must have medical evaluation for any respiratory discomfort lasting longer than a few days.
Though cervical cancer is preventable, it accounts for many deaths in Indian women. Common alarm bells include abnormal bleeding per vaginam, pelvic pain, fould smelling discharge, and dyspareunia. Pap smear and HPV vaccine are central to their prevention.
It is commonly seen by rising occurrences in urban population. Early signs include blood in the stool, unintentional weight loss, chronic constipation or diarrhea, and abdominal discomfort. For people at risk, colonoscopies are effective in early detection.
Also Read: The Four Most Common Cancers in Women
Awareness of cancer symptoms is the first step in saving lives. Permanent changes in the body should be ignored at a price. Regular screenings, lifestyle changes, and timely consultations should help India to combat the cancer burden significantly.