Cancer often starts quietly. Many early symptoms are mild, common, and easy to ignore — but recognizing them early can dramatically improve treatment outcomes.
1. Unexpected Weight Loss
Losing weight without dieting or exercise may signal:
- stomach cancer
- lung cancer
- pancreatic cancer
- thyroid problems
See a doctor if you lose >4–5 kg unintentionally.
2. Persistent Fatigue
Not normal tiredness — but deep exhaustion that doesn’t improve with rest.
Common in:
- leukemia
- colon cancer
- any advanced cancer
3. A Lump or Hard Mass
Lumps that are painless, firm, and growing should always be checked.
- breast lumps
- neck masses
- groin lumps
- testicular lumps
4. Long-Lasting Cough or Hoarseness
A cough lasting more than 3 weeks may suggest:
- lung cancer
- throat cancer
- thyroid cancer
5. Changes in Bowel Habits
Watch for:
- blood in stool
- persistent diarrhea or constipation
- narrow or pencil-like stools
These may be early signs of colon cancer.
6. Unexplained Pain
Pain that doesn’t respond to medication or has no clear cause may signal:
- bone cancer
- pancreatic cancer
- brain tumor
7. Skin Changes
Warning signs include:
- new dark spots or moles
- rapidly changing freckles
- non-healing wounds
Especially important under hot Zamboanga sun exposure.
8. Difficulty Swallowing
Persistent swallowing problems may indicate:
- esophageal cancer
- throat cancer
9. Abnormal Bleeding
Never ignore:
- vaginal bleeding between periods
- post-menopausal bleeding
- blood in urine or stool
- coughing blood
10. Persistent Fever or Night Sweats
Could be linked to:
- lymphoma
- leukemia
When should you worry?
What you should NOT do:
- Don’t wait months “to observe.”
- Don’t self-medicate repeatedly.
- Don’t rely on herbal cures alone.
- Don’t ignore “mild but persistent” symptoms.
What you SHOULD do:
- Visit a doctor for evaluation
- Get basic screening tests
- Ask about family history of cancer
- Seek early referral to specialists when needed
Early detection saves lives
Need help understanding your symptoms?
Message us anytime. We can guide you on what steps to take.
This article is for general awareness only and not a substitute for medical advice.