Fatigue, unintended weight loss: Six early warning signs of cancer

On National Cancer Awareness Day, here's understanding the importance of recognising early symptoms for improving cancer survival rates.

In Short

• Detecting cancer early can improve survival rates
• Unintended weight loss can be an early waring sign
• Skin changes like new or altered moles can predict future cancer

There is a rising burden of cancer cases in India and globally mainly because of an increase in diagnoses and lifestyle choices.

On National Cancer Awareness Day, Dr Vinayak Maka, Head of Medical Oncology at Ramaiah Institute of Oncosciences, stressed that identifying symptoms early and taking timely action can make a significant difference and improve survival rates.

"Detecting cancer early can make a world of difference, and it all starts with paying attention to the small changes in how one's body usually feels," he said, encouraging people not to overlook subtle changes in their health.

One common symptom that can signal an underlying issue is unexplained fatigue. "Think about those times when somebody is just too tired to get through the day—if this fatigue doesn't seem to go away, it's worth checking out," Dr Maka advised. Fatigue, especially when it becomes constant and affects daily activities, should be discussed with a doctor.

Unintended weight loss can also be a warning sign. If a person begins losing weight without changes to diet or exercise, it’s essential to consult a doctor.

Dr Maka also warned of other physical changes, like persistent lumps or swelling. "These are signals one’s body might be sending that shouldn't be ignored," he added.

Changes in bathroom habits are another early indicator. Persistent constipation, diarrhea, or unusual bleeding can point to issues that require medical evaluation.

Skin changes, like new or altered moles, should also be monitored closely. "Keep an eye on moles or new skin growths, especially if they look uneven, have irregular borders, or are larger than a pencil eraser," said Dr Maka, highlighting that sudden skin changes can indicate skin cancer.

Persistent symptoms like difficulty swallowing, a hoarse voice, or ongoing indigestion should also not be dismissed as minor.

"While these symptoms might not always mean something serious, they can sometimes be early signs of cancer," Dr Maka explained.

Routine self-checks and consultations are key. "Early detection is a cornerstone of effective cancer care," he concluded, urging people to seek medical advice when needed to improve treatment outcomes.