Symptoms of Cancer
There are over 100 different types of cancer, each with its own set of symptoms and treatment options. However, some common symptoms of cancer may include:
- Unexplained Weight Loss: Significant and unintentional weight loss can be a symptom of various cancers, particularly those affecting the pancreas, stomach, esophagus, or lungs.
- Fatigue: Persistent fatigue that doesn’t improve with rest can be a symptom of many types of cancer. It is often described as overwhelming tiredness and can interfere with daily activities.
- Pain: Persistent pain in specific areas of the body can be a symptom of certain cancers. For example, bone cancer may cause bone pain, while headaches can be a symptom of brain tumors.
- Changes in Skin: Changes in the size, shape, or color of moles or other skin lesions can indicate skin cancer. Additionally, jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes) can be a sign of liver or pancreatic cancer.
- Changes in Bowel or Bladder Habits: Persistent changes in bowel or bladder habits, such as blood in the stool or urine, changes in frequency, or changes in stool consistency, can be signs of colorectal, bladder, or prostate cancer.
- Persistent Cough or Hoarseness: A persistent cough, hoarseness, or difficulty swallowing can be symptoms of lung, throat, or esophageal cancer.
- Unexplained Bleeding: Unexplained bleeding or bruising, such as blood in the urine or stool, can be a sign of various cancers, including colorectal, bladder, or kidney cancer.
- Difficulty Swallowing: Difficulty swallowing, also known as dysphagia, can be a symptom of cancers affecting the esophagus, throat, or stomach.
- Changes in Lymph Nodes: Enlarged lymph nodes, particularly those that are painless, can be a sign that cancer has spread.
- Changes in Breast Tissue: Changes in the size, shape, or appearance of the breast or nipple, including lumps or skin changes, can be symptoms of breast cancer.
World Cancer Day | 4th February
World Cancer Day: All over the globe on 4th February, World Cancer Day is celebrated annually to raise awareness about Cancer. Many campaigns have been held at a global scale, about cancer & many themes have been set to address the various aspects of cancer control & prevention. Cancer remains a significant health challenge, both globally & in India as well. In this article, we will look at how the idea of World Cancer Day came into being, its history, Themes & Campaigns, and the scenario globally & in India.
How cancer prevails, its various types, risk factors involved, how to detect it early, treatment plans available, and the role played by the International Agency for Research on Cancer. The ongoing research & innovation along with the support plan required for cancer patients & how awareness regarding it has been raised all over the world and its impact on society have been mentioned in this article.