An NHS doctor has highlighted five symptoms that should not be ignored as they could be early signs of cancer. These symptoms are crucial red flags, as one in two people across the UK will receive a cancer diagnosis during their lifetime, with over 400,000 new cases reported annually.
The most prevalent forms of cancer in the UK are breast, prostate, lung, and bowel cancer, each with its own set of indicative symptoms. Some symptoms are nonspecific, and in certain cases, they may only manifest during the disease’s advanced stages. With this in mind, Dr. Raj Arora has outlined five symptoms that warrant immediate attention.
Dr. Arora emphasized sudden, unexplained weight loss as a concerning symptom. Even if one is not actively trying to lose weight through exercise or dieting, a dip in the numbers on the scale could signal an underlying health issue, including cancer.
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Additionally, the presence of blood in the stool, whether mixed in or separate, is highlighted as a potential indication of cancer. This, along with blood in the urine, should not be disregarded, as it could signify a more serious underlying condition that requires medical assessment.
Lumps found on the body, including in the breasts, testicles, or elsewhere, should never be overlooked, according to Dr. Arora. Although not all lumps turn out to be cancerous, prompt medical attention can help rule out serious conditions or detect cancer in its early stages.
Post-menopausal vaginal bleeding or bleeding after intercourse should also be taken seriously and checked by a medical professional. Dr. Arora reiterated that while these symptoms may not always point to cancer, it is important to address them to rule out any serious health concerns.
Persistent tummy bloating or indigestion that does not improve even with treatment was highlighted as another crucial symptom that is often underestimated. Dr. Arora emphasized the importance of paying attention to this symptom, which is frequently disregarded, and advised seeking medical assessment if it persists.
While these are five of the most prominent symptoms associated with cancer, Dr. Arora noted that there are numerous other signs that could indicate the presence of the disease. Any concerns should be promptly addressed by seeking medical advice, as early detection can significantly impact treatment outcomes.