With so many different types of cancers, the symptoms are varied and depend on where the disease is located. However, there are some key signs and symptoms to look out for, including:
be aware of persistent coughing episodes, breathlessness or difficulty swallowing
cancerous lumps are often painless and may increase in size as the cancer progresses
such as constipation and diarrhoea and/or blood found in the stools
includes bleeding from the vagina, anal passage, or blood found in stools, in urine or when coughing
a large amount of unexplained and unintentional weight loss over a short period of time (a couple of months)
which shows itself as extreme tiredness and a severe lack of energy. If fatigue is due to cancer, individuals normally also have other symptoms
includes unexplained or ongoing pain, or pain that comes and goes
look for changes in size, shape, or colour and if it becomes crusty or bleeds or oozes
includes needing to urinate urgently, more frequently, or being unable to go when you need to or experiencing pain while urinating
look for changes in size, shape or feel, skin changes and pain
feeling less hungry than usual for a prolonged period of time
including a spot, sore wound or mouth ulcer
persistent or painful heartburn or indigestion
be aware of very heavy, drenching night sweats
