11. Indigestion or Trouble Swallowing
Persistent heartburn or feeling food “stuck”
Possible esophageal or throat cancer
🍽️ If it lasts more than 2–3 weeks, see a doctor.
12. Nagging Cough or Hoarseness
A cough that won’t go away — especially in smokers
Hoarseness lasting more than 2 weeks
✅ Could be lung, throat, or thyroid cancer.
13. Neurological Changes
Headaches with vomiting or vision changes
Seizures, confusion, or balance issues
🧠 Could indicate a brain tumor.
14. Swollen Lymph Nodes
Lumps in the neck, armpit, or groin that don’t go away
Can be a sign of lymphoma or metastatic cancer
✅ Most are from infection — but persistent ones need testing.
15. Night Sweats
Drenching sweats not related to heat or menopause
Common in lymphoma and other blood cancers
16. Changes in a Mole
Asymmetry, irregular borders, color changes, diameter >6mm, evolving
The ABCDE rule for melanoma
📸 Take photos to track changes.
17. Abdominal Swelling or Bloating
Persistent bloating in women — possible ovarian cancer
Often mistaken for digestive issues
✅ If it lasts more than 2 weeks, get it checked.
18. Loss of Appetite
Sudden disinterest in food
Often linked to stomach, ovarian, or pancreatic cancer
19. Easy Bruising or Bleeding
Unexplained bruises, nosebleeds, or gum bleeding
Can indicate blood disorders or leukemia
🩸 Especially if you’ve never bruised easily before.
✅ What You Can Do to Protect Yourself
Get recommended screenings
Mammograms, colonoscopies, Pap tests, and skin checks save lives
Know your family history
Some cancers are hereditary
See a doctor for persistent symptoms
Early detection = better outcomes
Don’t smoke or use tobacco
#1 preventable cause of cancer
Limit alcohol
Linked to multiple cancers
Eat well, move daily, manage stress
Supports overall health and immunity
🚫 What NOT to Do
🚫 Don’t Google symptoms and panic — most symptoms have non-cancer causes
🚫 Don’t delay care because you’re afraid — early treatment saves lives
🚫 Don’t skip screenings — many cancers have no early symptoms
Final Thoughts
Your body speaks in whispers.
A cough that won’t quit.
A lump you didn’t notice before.
Weight loss you didn’t try for.
These aren’t always signs of cancer — but they are signs to pay attention.
So if something feels off…
don’t ignore it.
Talk to your doctor.
Get checked.
Be your own advocate.
Because when it comes to cancer, early detection isn’t just helpful — it can be life-saving.
And you’re worth the care.
