Cancer can develop silently, with symptoms often difficult to detect. However, some cancers typically exhibit early warning signs. Early detection, especially in the initial stages, often leads to more successful and less invasive treatment. Here are some early cancer symptoms that should not be ignored.

Unexplained weight loss is often one of the first noticeable symptoms of cancers of the esophagus, pancreas, stomach, and lung, according to the American Cancer Society. Other cancers, such as ovarian cancer, are more likely to cause weight loss as the tumor grows larger and presses on the stomach. Losing a few pounds in a short period without changes in diet or exercise could be a sign of cancer and should not be disregarded.

Sores or wounds that don't heal on any part of the body can be a sign of cancer. Normal wounds begin to heal after a period of time. If a wound stays open, worsens, or doesn't improve, it can indicate a serious underlying condition, including cancer.

Persistent fatigue, even after resting, can also signal various cancers, including blood cancers like leukemia or lymphoma.

Difficulty swallowing is a symptom of cancers affecting the head, neck, jaw, and mouth. Tumors growing in these areas can alter the function of the muscles in the mouth and throat, making swallowing more difficult. It can also be caused by conditions such as stroke, head injury, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), or treatments like radiation therapy and surgery. Patients should seek medical attention promptly to determine the cause and receive timely treatment.

New lumps or unusual changes, such as swellings in the neck, armpit, or groin, are often signs of infection or inflammation but can sometimes be linked to abnormal cell growth. If a lump is hard, grows larger over time, or doesn't disappear, it could indicate a more serious condition like breast, testicular, or lymphatic cancer. Individuals should monitor the size, shape, and pain level of any lumps and consult a specialist for appropriate treatment.

A persistent cough or hoarseness lasting more than a few weeks, especially a dry cough or one with blood, can be more than just a sign of infection. These symptoms may indicate lung, throat, or thyroid cancer. Tumors can cause irritation and a persistent cough when they affect the airways or surrounding tissues.

Persistent pain in the abdomen, back, or joints can sometimes be caused by bone, ovarian, pancreatic, or other internal organ cancers. This pain doesn't go away like other aches and pains. Instead, it worsens over time, often due to the rapid growth of the tumor or pressure on the body.

Bao Bao (Times of India)