Are there any warning signs of cancer?

Cancer is a devastating disease that destroys the functioning of the cells in our bodies. Each cancer has its own symptoms and characteristics depending on the body part or location affected. Although, there are no specific symptoms that define cancer alone, some symptoms commonly reported by individuals with cancer include:

• persistent fatigue
• unintentional weight loss
• fever
• pain 
• changes to the skin

There are warning signs that you should be aware of and report to your health provider. Reporting these warning signs could lead to an early diagnosis and potentially a cure if detected in its early stages of the disease.

The word CAUTION is used as an acronym to help individuals remember what warning signs to be aware of for cancer for.

C – Change in your bowel habits
A – A sore or cut that does not heal
U – Unusual bleeding or discharge
T –Thickening or lump in the breast or anywhere else in the body
I – Indigestion or difficulty swallowing
O – Obvious change in a mole or wart
N – Nagging Cough or Hoarseness

It is important to have yearly physical examinations and other visits to your health provider whenever there are any changes in your health. Women should perform regular monthly breast examinations. Men and boys older than 15 years should also conduct monthly self examinations of their breasts and testicles. Consult your health provider if you have a family history or have any risk factors that may increase your risk of developing cancer.

For more information about cancer prevention, contact Health Link Alberta where nurses are available 24-7 to provide health advice and information. Call toll free 1-866-408-LINK (5465).