We all know that the earlier cancer is detected, the better the chances of survival. However, a new study finds that half of UK adults with possible cancer have not contacted their primary care physician within six months.
Cancer Research UK (CRUK Cancerresearchuk.org) in his YouGov poll of 2,468 people found risk-signal symptoms such as unexplained weight He was only 48% of those who experienced it. Losses and new or abnormal lumps were reported to a primary care physician within six months.
"While you may find it difficult to ignore red flag symptoms such as hemoptysis or unexplained bleeding, this study shows that many do. Dr. Julie Sharp, Head of Health and Patient Engagement at CRUK.
She notes that people, especially those from disadvantaged backgrounds, face more barriers to seeking help. Do not leave and contact your primary care doctor as soon as possible. Your doctor is there for you and wants to hear about any concerns.
Not telling your doctor about any unusual health changes can reduce your chances of an early diagnosis of cancer. If diagnosed at stage 1 (earliest stage), more than 9 out of 10 people (92%) will survive their bowel cancer for more than 5 years. He is 1 in 10 (10%) when diagnosed at stage 4 (latest stage).
Sharp says people with any of the following symptoms should seek immediate medical attention: She stresses that most of the time it's not cancer, but if it is, finding it early can make a big difference and save lives.
1. Unexplained pain
Pain is a sign that something is wrong. It's easy to wish the pain would go away, but if the pain lingers, it's important to get rid of it. Checked out. “As we age, we experience more pain,” says Sharpe. "But unexplained pain can be a sign of something more serious."
2. However, very profuse, drenching night sweats can also be a sign of some cancers, such as leukemia and lymphoma.
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29}3. Unexplained Weight Loss
Of course, many unexplained weight loss other than cancer include gastrointestinal and thyroid problems. But Sharp says it's normal for your weight to change slightly over time, but if you've lost a noticeable amount of weight without trying, you should see your doctor. said.
4. Abnormal lumps or swelling
Lumps are one of the most common symptoms of cancer and are less serious. It can be caused by not many problems. Like an injury, a persistent lump or swelling in any part of the body, including the neck, armpit, stomach, groin, chest, breasts, or testicles, should be taken seriously.
5. Fatigue
Of course, fatigue can be caused by many things, including stress, autoimmune issues, or simply sleep disturbances. "But if you're feeling tired for no apparent reason, it could be a sign that something is wrong," says Sharpe.
6. Unexplained bleeding
Unexplained bleeding in poop, pee, or vomit; Vaginal bleeding, blood may appear red, brown, or black.This type of bleeding is often caused by something much less serious than cancer, but should always be reported to your doctor.
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7. Skin changes
}These may include sore moles that do not heal, new moles, changes in mole size, shape and color, as well as crusting, itching and bleeding. Take a look at what doctors call her ABCDE checklist to find the major changes. In addition, Sharp says any abnormal changes in skin patches or nails should be checked by a doctor.
8. Digestive and Dietary Problems
Problems such as difficulty swallowing, unusual heartburn, indigestion, and loss of appetite can be warning signs of cancer, Sharp says. It can also be caused by many other things, such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GORD), stomach ulcers, or simply eating spicy food. Unexplained persistent indigestion can be a sign of many cancers, including those of the pancreas, stomach and esophagus.
Loss of appetite is also a sign of various cancers. and Sharp said: getting better and better.
9. Hoarseness, Cough, or Shortness of Breath
Hoarseness is common when you have a cold,NHS } says that if a hoarse voice persists for more than three weeks, it could be laryngeal cancer and should be evaluated by a doctor. Similarly, sharps says that an unexplained cough that doesn't go away in a few weeks or gets worse could be a sign of lung cancer, and if you're feeling more short of breath than usual, see your doctor. May be associated with infections and other heart and lung problems, but may be a sign of cancer.
10. Altered excretion86}
Sharpe If you experience a change in bowel habits, including constipation, loose or more frequent pooping, or problems with urination, say: If you need to go more often or urgently, have pain when you pee, can't go when you need to, or have blood in your pee or poop, talk to your doctor. Symptoms like these could be signs of bowel or bladder cancer, but they may not be as serious. Sharpe said: "All of these symptoms can be caused by conditions other than cancer, but it's best to get tested."
12. Persistent Stomatitis
Canker sores are common, especially when you're tired, and usually go away within about two weeks. However, Sharp says any ulcers or red or white patches that do not heal after three weeks should be reported to a doctor or dentist.
11. Breast abnormalities
A lump is not the only possible symptom of breast cancer. Notice changes in breast size, shape, and feel. Changes, redness, or soreness in the breast or skin in the breast. Sharp says blood-like fluid leaking from nipples can also be a sign of cancer.
13. Persistent bloating
}Bloating is another very common condition that is usually not serious. However, Sharpe says it's common to have a bloated or swollen belly, but if you experience bloating most of the day, even if it's intermittent, see your doctor. It can be a sign of some cancers, but especially ovarian cancer.