Cancer is a complex disease that can involve a variety of genetic and environmental factors in its occurrence and progression. Although early detection and treatment of cancer is essential to improve survival, it is important to note that the signs listed below are not specific to cancer and can also be caused by other diseases.
Therefore, once these symptoms appear, one should seek medical attention in time so that the necessary tests and diagnoses can be made. Here are some early signs that may be associated with cancer:
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Top 10 signs of cancer before it happens
Enlarged lumps on body parts
This may include lumps in the breast, head, neck or abdomen.
Canker sores that don't heal for a long time
Normal canker sores usually heal in about a week, while sores caused by cancer not only do not heal for a long time, but may also grow in size.
Irregular vaginal bleeding
Irregular vaginal bleeding in middle-aged women may be a sign of cervical cancer.
Discomfort in swallowing or difficulty eating
Esophageal cancer can cause dysphagia, which progresses from having difficulty swallowing food to being able to eat only semi-liquid or liquid foods.
Long-term cough or worsening cough
In particular, when cough is accompanied by blood in the sputum or coughing up blood directly, lung cancer should be suspected.
Unexplained weight loss
Unexplained weight loss without deliberate dieting or exercise can be a sign of cancer.
Persistent unexplained pain
Cancer can cause persistent pain that may worsen over time.
Skin changes
These include jaundice, discoloration, itching, or excessive hair growth, which can be signs of skin cancer.
Persistent indigestion
Persistent dyspepsia, especially if accompanied by dysphagia or changes in stool habits, should raise suspicion of gastrointestinal cancer.
Abnormal menstrual periods and bleeding
Women with irregular menstrual cycles, heavy menstrual bleeding, or postmenopausal bleeding should be considered for gynaecological cancer.
It is important to note that the above symptoms can be caused by a variety of reasons and do not necessarily mean cancer. However, the appearance of these symptoms, especially if they persist or worsen, should prompt people to consult a doctor and get tested as soon as possible. Early detection and treatment of cancer can significantly improve treatment outcomes and survival rates.
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Beware of these physical indicators that are abnormal
Blood Gate
High blood pressure is a silent killer and often has no symptoms, but long-term uncontrolled high blood pressure can lead to serious consequences such as heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, etc. Therefore, if the office blood pressure is consistently 140/90 mmHg or more, it should be considered hypertension and prompt medical attention should be seen.
Blood lipids
Dyslipidemia, particularly elevated levels of total cholesterol and triglycerides, is an important risk factor for cardiovascular disease. The ideal total cholesterol level should be less than 5.20 mmol/L and triglycerides should be less than 1.69 mmol/L. Dyslipidemia is often associated with poor eating habits and lifestyle.
blood sugar
Abnormal blood sugar is a precursor to diabetes. Diabetes not only affects quality of life, but can also lead to a variety of complications such as cardiovascular disease, kidney disease, retinopathy, etc. It is important to check your blood sugar regularly to detect and treat abnormalities in a timely manner.
Blood uric acid
High levels of uric acid in the blood can lead to gout and, in severe cases, impaired kidney function. Normal serum uric acid levels should be less than 420 micromol/L.
Blood creatinine
Blood creatinine levels reflect how well the kidneys are functioning. Abnormally elevated levels may indicate kidney disease and prompt medical attention is required.
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How often should regular medical checkups be conducted
The frequency of regular checkups depends on a variety of factors, including age, gender, health status, family medical history, and potential risk factors. Here are some general recommendations:
Adults in general
For adults who are in good health and have no obvious family history, a comprehensive medical check-up every two years is recommended, or the decision is based on the individual's health condition and the doctor's recommendations.
Patients with chronic diseases such as hypertension and diabetes
This group of people should have more frequent medical check-ups, usually recommended every six months to a year, to allow for timely monitoring and management.
High-risk populations
For example, people with a family history of genetic diseases, an unhealthy lifestyle, and a high-risk work environment may need more frequent check-ups, or even once a year.
senior citizen
As we age, our physical abilities may decline and our risk of disease increases. As a result, older people may need more frequent physical examinations to monitor the development of chronic diseases.
woman
Women may need regular gynecological exams, including breast exams and cervical cancer screenings, which are usually recommended every year or every few years starting at a specific age (such as 21 or 25 years).