Persistent lumps, ulcers, and unusual bleeding: the hidden signals of common cancers
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Health professionals are urging people in India to pay closer attention to small but persistent changes in their bodies. These early signs can play a crucial role in detecting cancer when it is most treatable.
Breast cancer continues to be the most frequently diagnosed cancer in the country, and one of its earliest signals is the appearance of a lump in the breast.
Another major concern is oral cancer, commonly beginning as a wound or ulcer inside the mouth. While most mouth sores heal on their own, an ulcer that lingers for more than two weeks, shows no signs of recovery, or gradually becomes firmer may indicate something more serious.
One of the most recognisable warning signs across several cancers is abnormal bleeding.
Blood in phlegm, unexpected vaginal bleeding, or recurring blood in urine or stool are all indicators that warrant medical attention. Persistent bleeding, particularly when it doesn’t align with a known cause or typical pattern, can point to cancers of the lung, throat, cervix, bladder, or colon.
Mouth cancer symptoms can often be mistaken for everyday issues like canker sores or accidental cheek bites. However, red or white patches inside the mouth, sores that bleed easily, difficulty swallowing, unexplained weight loss, or changes in voice should prompt an immediate check-up.
Health practitioners stress that early-stage oral cancers may not be painful, which is why recognising subtle changes is essential.
Doctors emphasise the importance of balancing awareness with calm.
Many common symptoms – such as fatigue, minor digestive discomfort, or small lumps – usually stem from harmless reasons. But if these symptoms persist for several weeks, grow in intensity, or recur frequently, they should not be dismissed.
Regular health screenings remain one of the most effective tools for early detection.
Breast screening is recommended for women over 40, and individuals with a history of tobacco use are encouraged to undergo routine oral and lung evaluations. Understanding your body’s normal patterns and responding to consistent, unexplained changes can help detect diseases long before severe symptoms appear.