Here are five general warning signs that can sometimes suggest cancer may be developing. These symptoms do not mean you have cancer, but they are signals that should not be ignored—especially if they are persistent or unexplained.
5 Warning Signs of Cancer Developing in the Body
1. Unexplained Weight Loss
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Losing weight without dieting or changing lifestyle.
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Often defined as losing 10 pounds (4–5 kg) or more without trying.
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Can be linked to cancers of the pancreas, stomach, lungs, or esophagus.
2. Persistent Fatigue
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Feeling extremely tired even after rest.
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Fatigue that interferes with daily activities.
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Common in leukemia and other blood cancers, as well as many solid tumors.
3. Changes in Skin or New Unusual Lumps
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A lump, swelling, or thickened area anywhere on the body.
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Moles that change in shape, color, or size.
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Persistent sores that do not heal.
4. Persistent Pain
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Pain that doesn’t improve and lasts for weeks.
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Could be in the abdomen, bones, head, or other areas.
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Chronic pain can sometimes be a late sign, depending on the type of cancer.
5. Unusual Bleeding or Discharge
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Blood in stool or urine.
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Persistent cough with blood.
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Unusual vaginal bleeding (between periods or after menopause).
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Bleeding from the rectum or nipples.
Important Note
These symptoms can be caused by many non-cancer conditions. The key is:
If any of these symptoms last more than 2–3 weeks or keep coming back, get a medical check-up.
Early detection greatly improves outcomes