Understanding cancer - symptoms

What are the symptoms of cancer?

In its early stages, cancer usually has no symptoms, but eventually a malignant tumour will grow large enough to be detected. As it continues to grow, it may press on nerves and produce pain, penetrate blood vessels and cause bleeding, or interfere with the function of a body organ or system.

The seven warning signs of cancer

To remember the seven early warning signs of cancer, think of the word CAUTION:

C hange in bowel or bladder habits.

A sore that does not heal.

U nusual bleeding or discharge.

T hickening or lump in the breast, testicles, or elsewhere.

I ndigestion or difficulty swallowing.

O bvious change in the size, colour, shape, or thickness of a wart, mole, or mouth sore.

N agging cough or hoarseness.

The following symptoms may also signal the presence of some form of cancer:

• Persistent headaches
• Unexplained loss of weight or appetite
• Chronic pain in bones
• Persistent fatigue, nausea, or vomiting
• Persistent low-grade fever, either constant or intermittent
• Repeated instances of infection

Seek medical advice about cancer if:

You develop symptoms that may signal cancer, that are not clearly linked to another cause, and persist for more than two weeks. You should arrange to have a medical examination. If the cause of your symptoms is cancer, early diagnosis and treatment will offer a better chance of being cured.