Cancer

Signs and symptoms of cancer

Change 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, or

Nagging cough or hoarseness

Although these symptoms are not always warning signs of cancer, it is important to see a doctor if you have any of these symptoms. They can also be caused by less serious conditions, but only a doctor can make that diagnosis. Many people put off a visit to their health care provider and worry unnecessarily.

Don’t wait to feel pain: early cancer usually does not cause pain. When a tumor/mass is discovered, a biopsy is the only sure way to know whether the problem is cancer. In a biopsy, the doctor removes a sample of tissue and the tissue is examined under a microscope to check for cancerous cells.