Newest statistic data shows that the most common types of cancer in 2017 were breast, lung, prostate, colon, bladder, skin, thyroid, kidney, leukemia, endometrial, and pancreatic cancer. When it comes to the most common cancers in women, like breast, lung, cervical, and ovarian cancer, it is crucial to be able to recognize the earliest symptoms in order to elevate the chances for a successful treatment.
The 12 Most Common Signs of Women’s Cancers
Changes in the breasts
Every woman should do regular breast self-exams after periods. In case you notice or feel a lump, you should definitely consult your physician. This also goes for flaky nipples, odd discharge from the nipples, as well as dimples on the breasts. These and similar changes in the breasts may be signalizing breast cancer.
Rectal bleeding
Unfortunately, colon cancer is the third most frequent type of tumor in women. A very common sign of this health problem is bleeding from the rectum, which may also be a symptom of a less serious health issue, i.e. internal hemorrhoids. Anyhow, you should consult your doctor if you notice blood in the stool.
Persistent coughing
If you have a cough that still pertains even after 3 weeks or so, and if it is accompanied by blood, this is a serious cause for concern and you need to do a checkup. This is a common symptom of lung cancer.
Unexplained tiredness
Loss of blood is not uncommon during colon or stomach cancer, as well as leukemia, and this often results in unexplained fatigue, even after getting proper rest or sleep.
Fever
A recurring fever should never be neglected because it may signalize leukemia or some other type of blood tumors.
Mouth problems
If you happen to have sores that do not heal or some other ongoing mouth issue like whitish or reddish patches on the lips or inside the mouth cavity, make sure you consult your physician because they may be symptoms of oral cancer.
Changes in the skin
Skin cancers like melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma often begin as skin changes in the form of new growths or precancerous lesions. This includes changes on the skin, but also on the hair and nails.
Sudden loss or gain of weight
If you used to maintain a normal body weight, but all of a sudden you gained or lost a significant amount of pounds without any actual effort to do so, you should consult your physician because this may sometimes signal specific types of cancer, including ovarian tumors.
Changes in the lymph nodes
If you notice or feel hard lymph nodes in the neck area or under the armpits, you should get a checkup as soon as possible as they can sometimes indicate lung, breast, head, neck cancer, or lymphoma.
Postmenopausal bleeding
12 months without period is a sign of entering the phase known as menopause. Hence, any postmenopausal bleeding, staining, or blood drops on the underwear, as well as abnormal bigger clots, are a cause for concern and you should consult your doctor.
Smelly discharge
An unpleasantly-smelling discharge from the vagina may signalize cervical cancer.
Bloating
Ovarian cancer is often characterized by bloating, a feeling of fullness, changes in bowel movements and urination, as well as pelvic ache and low back pain.