Cancer is the second leading cause of death worldwide. In the U.S., researchers estimate that by 2024, over 2 million people will be diagnosed with cancer, and more than 611,000 will lose their lives to the disease.
Around 1 in 4 people will face cancer at some point in their lives.
The most common cancers are:
- Breast cancer
- Lung cancer
- Prostate cancer
- Colorectal cancer
- Blood cancers
While anyone can develop cancer, certain factors like race, sex, and age can influence the likelihood. According to the 2022 Annual Report on Cancer:
- Slightly more people assigned male (AMAB) are affected than those assigned female (AFAB).
- The risk increases significantly for people over 60.
- Black men (AMAB) are more commonly affected compared to other racial groups.
- Among women (AFAB), American Indian and Alaska Native individuals are affected more than other racial groups.
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Staying informed and keeping up with regular check-ups is key to early detection and better outcomes.
Cancers With Other Signs
Cancer signs can vary from person to person, depending on the type of cancer and how advanced it is.
Here are three common signs to watch out for:
1. Unexplained weight loss
According to a research Journal by Kern and Norton, one of the first signs that cancer might be attacking your body is unexplained weight loss.
Most people experience weight fluctuations throughout their lives, but it can be concerning when losing weight rapidly without changing your diet or exercise habits.
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If you lose more than 10 pounds unexpectedly, this could be a sign of various cancers, including cancers with other signs such as stomach, lung, pancreatic, or esophageal cancer.
Why does cancer cause weight loss?
Cancer cells can increase the body’s metabolic rate, causing weight loss even when consuming the same amount of food.
In some cases, tumors release substances that alter how your body processes nutrients, leading to fat and muscle loss.
Additionally, cancers in the digestive system can cause issues like nausea, loss of appetite, and difficulty swallowing, all of which contribute to significant weight loss.
When Should You Be Concerned?
Suppose you notice a significant drop in your weight over a short period, especially if you haven’t changed your diet or level of activity. In that case, it’s important to consult a doctor.
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While unexplained weight loss doesn’t automatically mean cancer, it can be one of the first signs of a problem in your body, especially cancers with other signs like fatigue, pain, or lumps.
2. Persistent tiredness
We all feel tired occasionally, especially after long days or sleepless nights.
However, when tiredness becomes overwhelming and persistent, lasting several weeks or even months, it can signal something more serious.
Tiredness that doesn’t go away with rest could be a sign of cancer. It is one of the most common signs associated with cancers of the blood, such as leukemia, as well as colon or stomach cancer.
Why does cancer cause tiredness?
Cancer can drain your body’s energy in several ways. Tumors use up nutrients that your body needs to produce energy, leaving you feeling tired.
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Additionally, certain cancers cause internal bleeding or disrupt the production of red blood cells, leading to anemia, a condition that makes it harder for your body to carry oxygen, thus resulting in extreme tiredness.
Cancers with other signs, like weight loss or persistent pain, often come with fatigue as a major red flag.
But it’s essential to know that fatigue alone, if severe and lasting, should prompt a conversation with your doctor.
When should you be concerned?
Persistent tiredness that doesn’t improve with rest, along with other symptoms like weight loss, fever, or pain, could be a sign that cancer is present.
If you feel consistently drained for weeks without a clear cause, speak to a doctor and consider a full check-up to rule out any underlying conditions, including cancer.
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3. Unexplained pain
Pain is one of the body’s ways of signaling that something is wrong, and unexplained or persistent pain should never be ignored.
While not all cancers cause pain in their early stages, certain types of cancer may present with continuous discomfort or pain in specific areas of the body.
Cancers with other signs, such as tumors pressing on organs, bones, or nerves, often lead to localized pain that worsens over time.
Why does cancer cause pain?
Cancer can cause pain through several mechanisms. Tumors can press against nerves or organs, causing discomfort and inflammation.
For example, bone cancer or metastases to the bones can be extremely painful.
Additionally, some cancers release chemicals that trigger a pain response in the body, even in the absence of a large tumor.
Pain can also be related to cancer treatment. Chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery may cause side effects that lead to discomfort.
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Chronic pain, particularly if it is sharp, persistent, and unexplained, is worth investigating, especially if accompanied by cancers with other signs like swelling or noticeable lumps.
When Should You Be Concerned?
Unexplained pain that lasts for more than a few weeks should be evaluated by a doctor. While many causes of pain are benign, it can be an early sign of cancer.
If the pain is coupled with other symptoms such as weight loss, fever, or fatigue, it’s especially important to seek medical attention.
Other Signs That Could Be Linked to Cancer
While weight loss, fatigue, and pain are key symptoms to watch out for, other signs can indicate the presence of cancer in your body. Some additional symptoms include:
- Skin changes: New moles, sores that don’t heal, or jaundice (yellowing of the skin) can be early signs of skin cancer or liver cancer.
- Lumps or swelling: Finding a lump under the skin, particularly in areas like the breasts, testicles, or lymph nodes, is often an indicator of cancer.
- Cough or hoarseness: A persistent cough or a hoarse voice, especially if it lasts for more than a few weeks, could signal lung or throat cancer.
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These symptoms are often linked to cancers with other signs, so it’s important to pay attention to changes in your body and take action quickly.
What To Do If You Notice These Signs
If you’re experiencing any of the signs mentioned above, unexplained weight loss, tiredness, or persistent pain, along with other symptoms, it’s important to see a doctor as soon as possible.
Early detection is key to effectively treating cancer, and many types of cancer are more manageable when caught early.
1. Keep track of your symptoms
Document your symptoms, noting when they started and how severe they are. This information can help your doctor better understand your condition and recommend appropriate testing.
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2. Request appropriate tests
If your doctor suspects cancer, they may recommend a variety of tests, including blood tests, imaging (such as X-rays or CT scans), or a biopsy to determine if cancerous cells are present.
3. Be proactive about your health
Regular screenings, such as mammograms, colonoscopies, and skin checks, can help detect cancer in its earliest stages. If you have a family history of cancer, it’s especially important to stay proactive and informed about your health.
A Word From GetMe Treated
Cancer often strikes silently, but your body can provide subtle warnings before it takes hold.
If you experience any combination of unexplained weight loss, persistent fatigue, or pain, along with other symptoms, it’s essential to take action quickly.
Cancers with other signs can present a mix of signs, making it important to stay aware of what your body is trying to tell you.
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Remember, experiencing one or more of these symptoms doesn’t automatically mean you have cancer, but it is worth seeking medical attention to rule out any serious health conditions.
Your health is in your hands, and early detection could make all the difference. Stay vigilant, stay proactive, and always listen to your body’s signals.
Cancers With Other Signs FAQs
What are common signs of cancer?
Common signs include unexplained weight loss, persistent fatigue, lumps, or unusual bleeding.
Can cancer symptoms vary between different types?
Yes, symptoms can vary greatly depending on the type of cancer, such as coughing in lung cancer or changes in bowel habits with colorectal cancer.
Is pain always a sign of cancer?
Not always. Some cancers cause pain, but many don’t cause any pain until they are more advanced.
How can I tell if symptoms are cancer-related?
It’s difficult to know without seeing a doctor. If you notice persistent or unusual symptoms, it’s best to get checked.
Are there cancers with no signs at all?
Yes, some cancers can develop silently without noticeable symptoms until they reach advanced stages. Regular screenings are key.