Early Detection Key to Beating Cancer: Experts Warn on National Cancer Awareness Day
Early Detection Key to Beating Cancer: Experts Warn on National Cancer Awareness Day
On November 7, which is observed as National Cancer Awareness Day, many renowned doctors emphasized the importance of early detection in the fight against cancer. They stressed that paying attention to subtle changes in the body can significantly improve survival chances.
“Detecting cancer early can make a huge difference,” they said, urging people to not ignore small, unusual changes in their health, as these could be early warning signs.
Fatigue is one such common symptom that often goes unnoticed. “When fatigue becomes persistent and interferes with daily life, it’s time to see a doctor,” the doctors advised.
Unexplained weight loss is another key indicator. If a person loses weight without changes to their diet or exercise, they should consult a healthcare provider.
Physical changes like lumps or swelling also need medical evaluation. They noted that these can be signals of underlying issues. Persistent changes in bathroom habits—like chronic constipation, diarrhea, or unusual bleeding—are additional warning signs that require attention.
The National Cancer Institute outlines several symptoms that may indicate cancer, including:
- Breast changes: Lumps, nipple discharge, or changes in breast skin texture.
- Bladder changes: Difficulty urinating, pain, or blood in the urine.
- Bleeding or bruising: without an obvious cause.
- Bowel changes: Blood in stools or altered bowel habits.
- Persistent cough or hoarseness.
- Eating problems: Persistent heartburn, difficulty swallowing, nausea, or appetite changes.
- Fatigue:Â that does not improve with rest.
- Mouth changes: Red or white patches, bleeding, or numbness.
- Neurological symptoms: Headaches, seizures, vision or hearing changes, facial drooping.
- Skin changes: New or changing moles, sores that don’t heal, or jaundice.
The doctors dispelled the myth that cancer is always a death sentence. “Cancer is treatable, curable, and manageable,” he stated, urging society to support patients and dispel fear and stigma.
