Cancer is a critical medical condition, but some of its forms are treatable if detected well in time. It is important to pay attention to its early signs and warning symptoms to increase the chances of a successful recovery. One should note that these signs do not confirm the presence of cancer but indicate its possibility. Therefore, check for the signs and consult a healthcare professional to be certain. Early detection and treatment can also help a patient in avoiding chemotherapy.

1. Oral sores and lumps

If the sore doesn't seem to heal or continues to bleed, seek medical help. A thickening lump can also be a sign of oral or skin cancer. Such lumps and sores might not always be painful, therefore, one should not wait until it begins to pain before seeking medical attention.

2. A lump or thickening in any part of the body

A regular self-examination should be followed by women to check for any lumps in breasts and by men for the same in testicles. This is because breast cancer and cancer of the testicles are common and also treatable if detected early. If you feel a persistent and/or thickening lump in any part of your body, consult a doctor.

3. Unusual bleeding or discharge

Unusual vaginal bleeding or discharge can be an early sign of cervical cancer. Similarly, if a person experiences blood in urine or stool or any unusual discharge, they should seek medical help at the earliest.

4. Change in bowel or bladder habits

An unusual and persistent change in bowel or bladder habits can be a sign of cancer of the bowel, bladder, kidney or prostate and therefore, demands for a medical examination. However, prostate cancer does not lead to any symptoms in the maximum number of cases.

5. Persistent cough

If you experience persistent cough, hoarseness or soreness in the neck, consult a health expert as these can be signs of lung cancer or cancer of the throat.

6. Difficulty in swallowing

Persistent indigestion and difficulty in swallowing can be symptoms of cancer of the oesophagus or stomach. It also indicates laryngeal cancer. Do not delay a visit to the hospital on experiencing these signs.

7. A visible change in a wart or mole

If you feel a mole or wart on your body is becoming larger, consult your doctor because this can be a sign of skin cancer. Skin cancer can develop in almost any part of your body, with exposed areas being at the highest risk.

The Bottom Line

Cancer can become a life-threatening condition as it worsens rapidly in most of the cases. However, advancements in cancer screening and treatment procedures have improved the survival rates significantly. If you see any of these symptoms, consult a doctor at priority. At this stage, it is not compulsory to see an oncologist and a general health practitioner can help you know if these are signs of cancer or any other medical condition. 

HJ Hospitals strives to strengthen the Congo healthcare system by providing top-notch medical services. We have a well-equipped oncology centre for proper diagnosis and treatment via methods like surgery, radiation therapy and chemotherapy. Manned by experienced doctors, nurses and medical workers, HJ Hospitals ensure the delivery of quality healthcare services to the people of Congo.