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Following heart disease, cancer is the second leading cause of death in America. Simply put, cancer occurs when abnormal cells in the body grow uncontrollably and invade surrounding tissues. Instead of dying and being replaced by healthy cells, cancer cells continue multiplying. As these abnormal cells accumulate, they can form a tumor.
Although cancer is serious, many types are highly treatable when detected early. That is why it is important to recognize certain warning signs your body may display and seek medical evaluation when symptoms persist.
1. Unexplained Weight Loss
Unexplained weight loss is often one of the earliest warning signs of certain cancers. Losing a significant amount of weight without changes in diet, exercise, or lifestyle may indicate an underlying condition.
Cancers commonly associated with unexplained weight loss include pancreatic, stomach, esophageal, and lung cancers. If weight loss exceeds 10 pounds without explanation, it is important to consult a healthcare provider.
2. Persistent or Unusual Pain
Pain can sometimes signal an underlying health issue, including cancer. For example:
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Bone or testicular cancer may cause localized pain.
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Persistent headaches that do not improve could signal a brain tumor.
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Ongoing back pain may be associated with cancers of the colon, rectum, or ovary.
Any persistent, unexplained pain that does not resolve should be evaluated by a medical professional.
3. Skin Changes
Changes in the skin can be early indicators of cancer. Warning signs include:
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Changes in the size, color, or shape of a mole
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A new growth on the skin
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Sores that do not heal
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Yellowing of the skin or eyes
Melanoma, one of the most serious forms of skin cancer, often begins as a change in an existing mole or the appearance of a new dark spot. Lumps or thickening under the skin, particularly in the breast, testicles, lymph nodes, or soft tissues, should also be examined promptly.
4. Persistent Cough or Hoarseness
A cough that does not resolve over several weeks may be a symptom of lung cancer. Coughing up blood requires immediate medical evaluation.
Hoarseness lasting longer than two weeks may indicate cancer of the larynx or thyroid.
5. Abnormal Bleeding or Discharge
Unusual bleeding should never be ignored. Examples include:
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Blood in the stool, which may signal colon or rectal cancer
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Blood in the urine, which may indicate bladder or kidney cancer
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Abnormal vaginal bleeding, which may be associated with uterine or cervical cancer
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Coughing up blood, which may be linked to lung cancer
Any unexplained bleeding warrants medical assessment.
6. Changes in Bowel Habits
Ongoing digestive changes should not be ignored. Persistent diarrhea, constipation, or a noticeable change in stool size or shape may indicate an underlying condition.
Blood in the stool, whether bright red or dark, can also be a warning sign. Some individuals may experience abdominal cramping, bloating, or a sensation that the bowel does not fully empty.
These signs are commonly associated with colon or rectal cancer, although they may also result from less serious digestive conditions. If bowel changes last more than a few weeks, medical evaluation is recommended.
7. Persistent Bloating or Pelvic Discomfort
Ongoing abdominal bloating or pelvic discomfort that does not resolve may be more than a minor digestive issue. Feeling full quickly when eating, frequent urination, lower back pain, or unexplained fatigue can sometimes signal a deeper concern.
These signs have been associated with ovarian cancer, particularly when they are new, persistent, and represent a noticeable change from normal patterns.
Because these symptoms can resemble common gastrointestinal or urinary conditions, they are sometimes overlooked. However, when they occur frequently over several weeks, they should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.
Not every sign listed above means cancer. Many of these symptoms are linked to less serious conditions. However, persistent, unexplained, or worsening changes in your body should never be ignored.
Early detection significantly improves treatment success and survival rates. Routine preventive screenings and regular medical checkups remain some of the most effective tools for identifying cancer in its earliest stages.
If you need more information about symptoms and types of cancers you can visit www.cancer.gov.
Being on of the main causes for death in American, cancer is highly common. As such, it is important to consider your health insurance options to make sure you’re getting the best coverage available. Consumers can choose among the available qualified health plans. However, since plans are rapidly leaving the market and premiums are skyrocketing, there are alternative healthcare options. For instance, there are great short term medical plans, which can be supplemented with cancer plans. Whatever direction you decide to take with your health insurance, be sure you discuss it with your insurance agent as they’ll help you with the enrollment process.
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This article was update on February 17,2026