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Warning Signs of Cancer
You probably have heard over and over again the following symptoms may be associated with cancer.  These symptoms are not always a sign of cancer.  They can also be caused by less serious conditions.  Only a doctor can make a diagnosis.  It is important to see a doctor if you have any of these symptoms.  Don’t wait to feel pain:  Early cancer usually does not cause pain.

The symptoms are:

• Changes in bowel or bladder habits,

• A sore that does not heal,

• Unusual bleeding or discharge,

• Thickening or lump in the breast or any other part of the body,

• Indigestion or difficulty swallowing,

• Obvious change in a wart or mole,

• Nagging cough or hoarseness

Guidelines for the Early Detection of Cancer
These guidelines from the American Cancer Society are for the early detection of cancer for people without symptoms.  Some people are at higher risk for certain cancers and may need to have tests more often and start when they are younger.  Talk with your health care provider to find out how these guidelines relate to you.

The American Cancer Society recommends that you have a cancer-related checkup every three years if you are under the age of 40, and every year if you are age 40 or older.  The cancer-related checkup should include examinations for cancers of the thyroid, mouth, skin, and lymph nodes, an examination of the testicles for men, and an examination of the ovaries for women.  The checkup should also include health counseling (such as tips on quitting smoking).

If you have a sign or symptom that might mean cancer, the doctor will do a physical exam and ask about your medical history.  In addition, the doctor usually orders various tests and exams.  These may include imaging procedures, which produce pictures of areas inside the body; endoscopy, which allows the doctor to look directly inside certain organs; and laboratory tests.  In most cases, the doctor also orders a biopsy, a procedure in which a sample of tissue is removed.  A pathologist examines the tissue under a microscope to check for cancer cells.

Remember: Early Detection is Your Best Protection.  Get Screened.
Next month’s article: You’ve Got the Power to Decrease Your Odds of Getting Cancer