Unews World
Most cancer patients show early warning signs that are frequently dismissed as normal or minor. Oncologist, Dr. Anchal Aggarwal, with 16 years of medical experience, states that in about 80% of cases, patients have missed early symptoms before diagnosis. Clinical experience and even the public health data state that often the overlooked symptoms are the main critical culprits. More than this, Dr. Aggarwal emphasises on the need of early and prompt action, stating its importance as timely awareness improves the chances of early detection, effective treatment and better outcomes.The National Cancer Institute notes that even with treatment advances, cancer detected in later stages often responds poorly to therapy, making early detection so important. Programs such as Early Detection Research Network, mammography trials and public awareness campaigns are all working to catch cancer earlier and give people a better chance at survival
The reality of ignored warning signs and symptoms
Many of us assume cancer strikes without warning, with no apparent signals. Experts, such as Dr. Anchal, however, say that the body often sends warning signals of disease, long before it gets life-threatening. The problem is that symptoms such as sudden tiredness, unexplained pains, changes in skin, and persistent coughs are usually explained by everyday stresses, aging, or minor illness. This normalization of symptoms is dangerous, says Dr. Anchal Aggarwal. By the time patients take them seriously, the cancer is often advanced and more difficult to treat.
Early signs: Most commonly overlooked
Dr. Anchal Aggarwal and several published studies list several early warning signs which must not be ignored:Unexplained fatigue that doesn’t improve with rest:Chronic fatigue, other than that resulting from overexertion or lack of rest, can also be a symptom of some hidden cancers like leukemia or lymphoma. Lymphoma is a cancer of the lymphatic system, which is part of the immune system. It usually presnets swollen lymph nodes, fatigue, fever and night sweats as its main symptoms.Persistent pain in any body part without a clear cause:Lingering or unusual pain, especially if it does not go away or gets worse, can be a symptom of cancers of the bones, ovaries, and other organs. Skin or mole changes, including new growth, bleeding, or color change:
Any changing mole, dark spot, or sore that won’t heal needs immediate attention, because it could represent melanoma or skin carcinoma. Melanoma is a serious type of cancer in which early detection becomes critical. Any suspicious lumps on skin or dark-coloured moles should be evaluated promptly.Unexplained change in weight or appetite:
A significant weight loss of more than 5% of the body mass within 6–12 months or a sudden loss of appetite may indicate GI, pancreatic, or lung cancers, as stated by Dr. Aggarwal.Lumps or swelling anywhere in the body:Among the most common but ignored signs are single or multiple lumps, whether painful or painless; they always need to be investigated, especially if they persist.Long-lasting cough or hoarsenessA chronic cough or hoarseness not part of an infection may indicate cancers of the lung, throat, or thyroid. If it’s lingering, it becomes important to see a doctor or ENT specialist for evaulation.
Why do most patients miss these signs
Dr. Anchal mentions that the statistics reveal a mixture of fear, denial, and misinformation. Many of them are either unaware that these symptoms can denote cancer or dismiss them as normal stress, aging, or mild infections. Stress from busy lives also contributes: Many people put off their health check-ups because they feel pressed for time, and in most cases are not sure about what to do. This hesitation can delay diagnosis and treatment, sometimes turning manageable conditions into serious ones.What should we do
- Don’t dismiss mild symptoms that linger.
- If any warning signs appear, seek medical attention right away.
- If available and recommended for your age or risk level, participate in cancer screening programs.
- Listen to your body, even minor changes might denote something huge.
Ignoring early warning signs can turn out to be a dangerous mistake. Studies and clinial experts show that around 80% of cancer patients had early warning signs that could have been noticed early, but were dismissed or normalised. Paying close attention, staying vigilant and seeking prompt medical care can save lives. The body speaks; we just need to listen..
