Signs of Cancer
Most cancers in their earliest stages do not cause symptoms
or pain. That's why you should see your doctor for regular checkups and not wait
for problems to occur. But you should also know that the following symptoms may
be associated with cancer:
- Changes in bowel or bladder habits
- A sore that does not heal
- Unusual bleeding or discharge
- A thickening or lump in the breast or any other part of
the body
- Indigestion or difficulty swallowing
- An obvious change in a wart or mole
- A nagging cough or hoarseness
These symptoms are not always a sign of cancer. They can
also be caused by less serious conditions. Only a doctor can make a diagnosis.
It is important to see a doctor. Don't wait to feel pain. Early cancer usually
does not cause pain.
Cancer Stages
Cancers are often "staged" or rated on how extensive they
are before treatment. By determining the correct stage, a physician can plan the
best therapy and evaluate the results. Many systems are used to stage or grade
tumors. The earlier the stage when diagnosed, the greater the opportunity for
cure or improvement. Typically, the stages are:
- Stage I, the simplest form, indicates that the
tumor is small and confined to the organ or tissue where it began. The best
chance for cure is when the tumor is still in Stage I.
- Stage II means the tumor has spread to
surrounding tissues.
- Stage III means the tumor has spread into
surrounding tissues and lymph nodes
-
Stage IV
signifies more extensive spread, often to many organs or parts of the body.
Source:
What You Need to Know About Cancer, National
Cancer Institute, NIH Publication No. 94-1563, Revised April 1993
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