Cancer is something that will affect a staggering 1 in 2 people in the UK and 1,000 people each day are diagnosed with it – including Kate Middleton just this week.
Sadly, though, only half of people with cancer live for 10 years or more after diagnosis which is why it’s so important to spot early.
That’s the reason medical experts are always urging people to be vigilant and listen to your body about the signs and symptoms of cancer that you might easily miss or mistake for something else – because early diagnosis and intervention gives you or your loved one the best possible chance of survival.
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Cancer Research has issued a list of 23 common and easily overlooked symptoms that could indicate someone has cancer and should contact their doctor.
According to the NHS, 1 in 2 people will develop cancer in their lifetime and in the UK, the four most common types of cancer are breast cancer, lung cancer, prostate cancer and bowel cancer.
But it isn’t just smokers and red meat eaters who are at risk of cancer (although both of those have been proven to increase your risk of cancer), but there are various types of cancer that can develop in all sorts of ways in otherwise healthy people.
And there is one type of symptom you can only spot after eating: persistent heartburn or indigestion.
Heartburn is a feeling like an acidic reflux sensation in your chest/stomach or throat after eating.
According to John Hopkins Medicine, when heartburn becomes frequent, some people’s bodies attempt to heal the damage by replacing the oesophagus’ lining with tissue very similar to the small intestine, a condition known as Barrett’s oesophagus.
The benign condition caused by stomach acid increases the risk of oesophageal cancer. Although the majority of patients with Barrett’s oesophagus will never develop oesophageal cancer, a small percentage do go on to develop cancer and it can spread to lymph nodes.
Anyone who has long-term acid reflux or heartburn should immediately contact their GP.
There are 23 common symptoms of cancer to look out for according to Cancer Research UK, which are:
- Very heavy night sweating
- Fatigue
- Unexplained bleeding or bruising
- Unexplained pain or acne
- Unexplained weight loss
- An unusual lump or swelling anywhere on your body
- A new mole, or a change to a mole
- Skin changes or a sore that won’t heal
- Croaky voice, hoarse voice or a cough that won’t go away
- Coughing up blood
- Difficulty swallowing
- Breathlessness
- Persistent heartburn or indigestion
- Unusual changes to the size or feeling of your breast
- Persistent bloating
- Loss of appetite
- A change in bowel habit such as constipation, looser stool or going more often
- Blood in your stool
- Unexpected vaginal bleeding including after sex, between periods or post-menopause
- Blood in your urine
- Problems urinating
The NHS says about spotting cancer: “It’s important to be aware of any new or worrying symptoms.
“Although it’s unlikely to be cancer, it’s important to speak to a GP so they can investigate. Finding cancer early means it’s easier to treat.
“If your GP suspects cancer, they’ll refer you to a specialist – usually within 2 weeks.”
Cancer Research UK adds: “There are over 200 different types of cancer that can cause many different signs and symptoms. Sometimes symptoms affect specific areas of the body, such as our tummy or skin. But signs can also be more general, and include weight loss, tiredness (fatigue) or unexplained pain.
“It’s important to be aware of what is normal for you and speak to your doctor if you notice any unusual changes or something that won’t go away. This can help to diagnose cancer at an early stage, when treatment is more likely to be successful.”
Sarah Carter is a health and wellness expert residing in the UK. With a background in healthcare, she offers evidence-based advice on fitness, nutrition, and mental well-being, promoting healthier living for readers.
