Cancer Signs & Symptoms

In this campaign to save lives through cancer screening, it is important to realise the significance of monitoring cancer signs and symptoms.

It is not necessary that all signs & symptoms listed below for any cancer would have to occur. Instead, just one or two of the signs & symptoms can even manifest into cancer. Alternately, signs & symptoms can also pertain to some other ailment (other than cancer) and hence screening is the solution to resolve the matter.

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Tips to protect from any cancer stated below are certain specific actions that one can take, but general tips will always be applicable for all cancers, such as an active lifestyle, exercising daily, consuming healthy food, controlling weight to prevent obesity, avoiding processed foods and saturated fats etc.

On occurrence of initial signs and symptoms of common cancers, it is necessary that nearest cancer screening centre is visited. For other cancers, the need is to visit a hospital immediately, so that diagnosis is made and treatment commences, at the earliest.

Breast Cancer

In breast cancer, cells in the breast grow out of control.

Screening Aspects

Start screening from age 40 onwards. Those with family history of breast cancer, start from age 25 onwards.

Start screening from age 40 onwards. Those with family history of breast cancer, start from age 25 onwards.

Screening Methods

Mammography. Clinical breast examination. Breast self-examination.

Mammography. Clinical breast examination. Breast self-examination.

Signs & Symptoms

A new breast lump or mass or thickening or nodes felt on or inside of the breast or underarm
Irritation or dimpling of breast skin       Change in the size, shape or appearance of a breast
General pain in/on any part of the breast or nipple       A new nipple retraction (turning inward)
Redness or flaky skin in nipple area or breast       Nipple discharge (other than breast milk)
Nipple or breast skin that is red, dry, flaking, peeling, scaling, crusting or thickened
Changes in the appearance of one or both nipples

A new breast lump or mass or thickening or nodes felt on or inside of the breast or underarm

Irritation or dimpling of breast skin

Change in the size, shape or appearance of a breast

General pain in/on any part of the breast or nipple pain

A new nipple retraction (turning inward)

Redness or flaky skin in the nipple area or the breast

Nipple discharge (other than breast milk)

Nipple or breast skin that is red, dry, flaking, peeling, scaling, crusting or thickened

Changes in the appearance of one or both nipples

Tips to Protect From This Cancer

Avoid being overweight        Exercise for at least 30 minutes per day       Do not smoke
Limit alcohol consumption       Breastfeed, if possible
Avoid birth control pills, esp. after age 35       Avoid hormone therapy for menopause
If you have a family history of breast cancer, consult your doctor about reducing your risk

Avoid being overweight

Exercise for at least 30 minutes per day

Limit alcohol consumption
Do not smoke
Breastfeed, if possible

Avoid birth control pills, particularly after the age of 35

Avoid hormone therapy for menopause

If you have a family history of breast cancer, consult your doctor about reducing your risk

Oral (Mouth) Cancer

Mouth cancer refers to cancer that develops in any of the parts that make up the mouth (oral cavity) such as lips, gums, tongue, inner lining of the cheeks, roof of the mouth and floor of the mouth (under the tongue).

Screening Aspects

Start screening from age 30 onwards. Those who chew tobacco, start screening from the time they started chewing tobacco.

Start screening from age 30 onwards. Those who chew tobacco, start screening from the time they started chewing tobacco.

Screening Methods

Visual inspection of mouth insides by doctor or dentist to check for abnormalities like red or white patches, sores, lesions, lumps etc.

Visual inspection of mouth insides by doctor or dentist to check for abnormalities like red or white patches, sores, lesions, lumps etc.

Signs and Symptoms

White or red patches on the gums, tongue, tonsil, or lining of the mouth
A growth or lump inside the mouth or on the lip       Pain inside the mouth
Persistent mouth sores that do not heal       Persistent mouth pain       Ear pain
A sore throat or persistent feeling that something is caught in the throat
Difficult or painful swallowing or chewing       Difficulty moving the jaw or tongue
Numbness of the tongue or lower lip or chin       Difficulty in speaking or a hoarse voice
A lump in the neck or throat or in the cheek

White or red patches on the gums, tongue, tonsil, or lining of the mouth

A growth or lump inside the mouth or on the lip

Pain inside the mouth
Persistent mouth sores that do not heal
Persistent mouth pain
Ear pain
Difficult or painful swallowing or chewing

A sore throat or persistent feeling that something is caught in the throat

Difficulty moving the jaw or tongue
Numbness of the tongue or lower lip or chin
Difficulty in speaking or a hoarse voice
A lump in the neck or throat or in the cheek

Tips to Protect From This Cancer

Stop taking tobacco such as chewing tobacco, gutkha, snuff, betel nut, paan, cigarettes etc.
Maintain oral hygiene by brushing and flossing daily       Drink alcohol in moderation
Avoid oral sex       Use sunscreen to shield lips from ultraviolet rays of sun
Visit the dentist regularly       Girls and young women may get vaccinated for HPV

Stop taking tobacco such as chewing tobacco, gutkha, snuff, betel nut, paan, cigarettes etc.

Maintain oral hygiene by brushing and flossing daily

Drink alcohol in moderation
Avoid oral sex

Use sunscreen to shield lips from UV rays of sun

Visit the dentist regularly

Girls and young women may get vaccinated for HPV

Cervical Cancer

This cancer starts in the cells of the cervix. The cervix is the lower, narrow end of the uterus (womb) which connects to the vagina.

Screening Aspects

Screening may begin at age 21 and end at age 65 (for women who have had adequate prior screening and are not otherwise at high risk for cervical cancer).

Screening may begin at age 21 and end at age 65 (for women who have had adequate prior screening and are not otherwise at high risk for cervical cancer).

Screening Methods

Visual inspection with Acetic Acid wash (VIA), Pap-smear test, HPV test

Visual inspection with Acetic Acid wash (VIA), Pap-smear test, HPV test

Signs & Symptoms

Abnormal bleeding after intercourse       Vaginal bleeding between periods
Periods that are heavier or longer than normal       Vaginal bleeding after menopause
Foul-smelling vaginal discharge       Severe strain in the lower back and pelvis
Vaginal discharge that is watery or that contains blood

Abnormal bleeding after intercourse
Vaginal bleeding between periods
Periods that are heavier or longer than normal
Vaginal bleeding after menopause
Foul-smelling vaginal discharge

Vaginal discharge that is watery or that contains blood

Severe strain in the lower back and pelvis

Tips to Protect From This Cancer

Get vaccinated against HPV (2 dose schedule before age 15 and 3 dose schedule after age 15)
Practice safe sex by using condoms       Avoid multiple sex partners       Do not smoke
Avoid long-term use of birth control pills       Avoid an early pregnancy (prior to 17)

Get vaccinated against HPV (2 dose schedule before age 15 and 3 dose schedule after the age of 15)

Practice safe sex by using condoms
Avoid multiple sex partners
Avoid long-term use of birth control pills
Avoid an early pregnancy (prior to 17)
Do not smoke

Throat Cancer

It is the cancer that develops in the throat (pharynx) or voice box (larynx). Most cases of throat cancer are caused by Human Papillomavirus (HPV) infection.

Screening Aspects

Screening is not done for throat cancer. Get tested immediately on appearance of the signs.

Screening is not done for throat cancer. Get tested immediately on appearance of the signs.

Testing Methods

Checking the throat and voice box with an Endoscope or a Laryngoscope.

Checking the throat and voice box with an Endoscope or a Laryngoscope.

Signs and Symptoms

Hoarseness or other change in the voice       Persistent sore throat or ear pain
Pain or difficulty when swallowing or the feeling that something is caught in the throat
Lump or swelling in the neck       Long-lasting cough or breathlessness
Wheezing noise while breathing       A lump or sore that doesn't heal       Weight loss

Hoarseness or other change in the voice

Pain or difficulty when swallowing or the feeling that something is caught in the throat

Persistent sore throat or ear pain
Lump or swelling in the neck
Long-lasting cough or breathlessness
Wheezing noise while breathing
A lump or sore that doesn't heal

Tips to Protect From This Cancer

Protect from HPV infection by safe sexual like fewer sexual partners and using condoms
Girls and young women may get vaccinated against HPV       Stop using tobacco in any form
Stop excessive alcohol consumption       Eat a healthy diet full of fruits and vegetables

Protect from HPV infection by safe sexual practices like fewer sexual partners and using condoms

Girls and young women may get vaccinated against HPV

Stop using tobacco in any form
Stop excessive alcohol consumption
Eat a healthy diet full of fruits and vegetables

Lung Cancer

Lung cancer occurs when cells in the lungs divide uncontrollably, causing tumours to grow. Tumours can reduce a person’s ability to breathe, and they can spread to other parts of the body.

Screening Aspects

Screening is recommended ONLY for adults who may not have any symptoms but are at high risk. These are people who are heavy smokers and are older.

Screening is recommended ONLY for adults who may not have any symptoms but are at high risk. These are people who are heavy smokers and are older.

Screening Method

Low-dose Computed Tomography (also called a Low-dose CT scan)

Low-dose Computed Tomography (also called a Low-dose CT scan)

Signs & Symptoms

Coughing that gets worse or doesn't go away       Shortness of breath       Wheezing
Coughing up blood or rust-coloured sputum       Hoarseness       Chest pain
Loss of appetite       Fatigue and weakness        Bone pain       Headache
Unexplained weight loss due to no known cause

Coughing that gets worse or doesn't go away
Wheezing
Shortness of breath
Coughing up blood or rust-coloured sputum
Hoarseness
Chest pain
Loss of appetite
Fatigue and weakness
Bone pain
Headache
Weight loss with no known cause

Tips to Protect From This Cancer

Don't smoke       Avoid secondhand smoke       Avoid exposure to toxic chemicals at work
Eat a diet full of fruits and vegetables        Exercise most days of the week

Don't smoke & avoid secondhand smoke
Avoid exposure to toxic chemicals at work
Eat a diet of fruits & vegetables
Exercise on most days of the week

Esophageal Cancer

Esophageal cancer happens when cancerous cells in the esophageal tissue begin to multiply, eventually creating a tumor. Esophagus is a long, hollow tube that runs from the throat to the stomach.

Screening Aspects

Screening is not done for esophageal cancer. Get tested immediately on appearance of the signs and symptoms.

Screening is not done for esophageal cancer. Get tested immediately on appearance of the signs and symptoms.

Testing Methods

In ‘Upper Endoscopy’, an endoscope is passed down the throat and into the esophagus and stomach.

In ‘Upper Endoscopy’, an endoscope is passed down the throat and into the esophagus and stomach.

Signs and Symptoms

Heartburn or acid reflux       Chest pain       Weight loss       Hoarseness
Chronic cough       Vomiting       Lack of energy       Trouble swallowing
Pain in throat and chest especially while swallowing
Black stools caused by blood bleeding into the esophagus and then through the digestive tract

Heartburn or acid reflux

Trouble swallowing and pain in throat and chest especially while swallowing

Chest pain
Weight loss
Hoarseness
Chronic cough
Vomiting
Lack of energy

Black stools caused by blood bleeding into the esophagus and thereafter passing through the digestive tract

Tips to Protect From This Cancer

Do not smoke       Avoid being obese       Do not drink very hot liquids on a regular basis      
Consume a diet with enough fruits and vegetables       Drink alcohol moderately

Do not smoke
Avoid being obese
Drink alcohol moderately
Do not drink very hot liquids on a regular basis

Consume a diet with enough fruits and vegetables

Stomach (Gastric) Cancer

In stomach cancer, cancer cells grow out of control in the stomach. In most cases, this cancer occurs in the main part of the stomach called the stomach body.

Screening Aspects

Screening is not done for stomach cancer. Get tested immediately on appearance of the signs and symptoms.

Screening is not done for stomach cancer. Get tested immediately on appearance of the signs and symptoms.

Testing Methods

Upper Endoscopy is a procedure carried out to look inside the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum (first part of the small intestine)

Upper Endoscopy is a procedure carried out to look inside the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum (first part of the small intestine)

Signs and Symptoms

Poor appetite       Difficulty in swallowing       Abdominal pain, often above navel
Feeling bloated after eating       Feeling full after eating only a small meal
Not feeling hungry when you would expect to be hungry       Heartburn or indigestion
Nausea and vomiting (with or without blood)       Unexplained weight loss
Feeling very tired       Stools with black appearance

Poor appetite
Difficulty in swallowing
Abdominal pain, often above navel
Feeling bloated after eating
Feeling full after eating only a small meal

Not feeling hungry when you would expect to be hungry

Heartburn or indigestion
Nausea and vomiting (with or without blood)
Unexplained weight loss
Feeling very tired
Stools with black appearance

Tips to Protect From This Cancer

Cut down on salty, smoked or pickled foods       Reduce consumption of processed meats
Control acidity, stomach irritation (gastritis)       Quit smoking, vaping or chewing tobacco
Limit alcohol intake       Avoid being obese       Eat a diet full of vegetables and fruits
If you have a family history of stomach cancer, consult your doctor

Cut down on salty, smoked or pickled foods
Reduce consumption of processed meats
Control acidity, stomach irritation (gastritis)
Quit smoking, vaping or chewing tobacco
Limit alcohol intake
Avoid being obese
Eat a diet full of vegetables and fruits

If you have a family history of stomach cancer, consult your doctor

Colorectal Cancer

In colorectal cancer, cells in the colon or rectum grow out of control. This cancer often begins as a growth called a polyp inside the colon or rectum. Some of these polyps can turn cancerous.

Screening Aspects

Screening may begin at the age of 45, especially if you have a personal or a family history of colorectal polyps or cancer.

Screening may begin at the age of 45, especially if you have a personal or a family history of colorectal polyps or cancer.

Screening Methods

Fecal occult blood test, Flexible Sigmoidoscopy, Colonosopy, CT Colonoscopy

Fecal occult blood test, Flexible Sigmoidoscopy, Colonosopy, CT Colonoscopy

Signs & Symptoms

A persistent change in bowel habits        Rectal bleeding or blood in your stool
Diarrhea or constipation or a change in the consistency of your stool
Narrow, ribbon-like stools       Bloating or full feeling        Change in appetite 
Persistent abdominal discomfort, such as cramps, gas or pain       Rectal bleeding
A feeling that your bowel doesn't empty completely       Excessive fatigue
Discomfort or urge to have a bowel movement when there is no need
Abdominal pain or cramping pain in your lower stomach
Blood in the stool or toilet after a bowel movement       Weight loss without dieting

A persistent change in bowel habits
Rectal bleeding or blood in stool

Diarrhea or constipation or a change in the consistency of stool

Narrow, ribbon-like stools
Bloating or full feeling
Change in appetite

Persistent abdominal discomfort, such as cramps, gas or pain

A feeling that your bowel doesn't empty completely

Excessive fatigue

Discomfort or urge to have a bowel movement when there is no need

Abdominal pain or cramping pain in your lower stomach

Blood in the stool or toilet after a bowel movement

Weight loss without dieting

Tips to Protect From This Cancer

Keep your weight between recommended limits       Limit alcohol consumption
Do moderate to vigorous physical activity for a minimum of 30 minutes daily
Consume a diet based on fruits, vegetables, whole grains and spices
Replace meat and dairy with fish, nuts, and legume       Consume unsaturated fats
Give up smoking       Give up processed and refined products
Make sure you have normal levels of folate and vitamins D and E

Keep your weight between recommended limits

Do moderate to vigorous physical activity for a min of 30 mins daily

Consume a diet based on fruits, vegetables, whole grains and spices

Replace meat and dairy with fish, nuts, and legumes

Consume unsaturated fats
Limit alcohol consumption
Give up smoking
Give up processed and refined products

Make sure you have normal levels of folate and vitamins D and E

Leukemia

Leukemia is a type of blood cancer. In this cancer uncontrolled growth of white blood cells takes place in bone marrow and the lymphatic system. There are two types of leukemia: lymphoid and myeloid.

Screening Aspects

No screening test has been proven to be reliable enough to detect the cancer in its earliest stages prior to the development of symptoms.

No screening test has been proven to be reliable enough to detect the cancer in its earliest stages prior to the development of symptoms.

Testing Methods

Physical examination. Blood test. Bone Marrow test.

Physical examination. Blood test. Bone Marrow test.

Signs and Symptoms

Fever or chills or night sweats       Persistent fatigue, weakness, tiring easily
Frequent or severe infections       Swollen lymph nodes in neck, underarm, groin or stomach
Enlarged liver or spleen       Recurrent nosebleeds and bleeding gums
Tiny red spots in your skin or darkened skin patches       Excessive sweating, especially at night
Bone pain or tenderness       Shortness of breath       Pale skin       Unexplained weight loss
Pain or full feeling under your ribs on the left side       Easy bleeding or bruising

Fever or chills or night sweats
Persistent fatigue, weakness, tiring easily
Frequent or severe infections

Swollen lymph nodes in neck, underarm, groin or stomach

Enlarged liver or spleen
Easy bleeding or bruising
Recurrent nosebleeds and bleeding gums

Tiny red spots in your skin or darkened skin patches

Excessive sweating, especially at night
Bone pain or tenderness
Shortness of breath
Pale skin
Unexplained weight loss

Pain or full feeling under your ribs on the left side

Tips to Protect From This Cancer

Quit smoking       Maintain a moderate weight       Stay physically active
Follow a healthy diet       Avoid exposure to benzene, formaldehyde and pesticides

Quit smoking
Maintain a moderate weight

Avoid exposure to benzene, formaldehyde and pesticides

Stay physically active
Follow a healthy diet

Ovarian Cancer

Ovarian cancer is a growth of cells in the ovaries. A female has two ovaries, one on either side of the uterus. The cells multiply quickly and can invade and destroy healthy body tissue.

Screening Aspects

Screening is recommended only for females who have a family history of ovarian cancer or who have a harmful BRCA1 / BRCA2 gene mutation.

Screening is recommended only for females who have a family history of ovarian cancer or who have a harmful BRCA1 / BRCA2 gene mutation.

Testing Methods

Blood test for CA 125 Tumour Marker. Transvaginal Ultrasound.

Blood test for CA 125 Tumour Marker. Transvaginal Ultrasound.

Signs & Symptoms

Abdominal bloating or swelling       Upset stomach       Quickly feeling full when eating
Discomfort in the pelvic area       Changes in bowel habits, such as constipation
Weight loss       Pain during sex       Heavier bleeding during periods
A frequent need to urinate       Fatigue       Back pain

Abdominal bloating or swelling
Upset stomach
Back pain
Quickly feeling full when eating
Discomfort in the pelvic area
Changes in bowel habits, such as constipation
Fatigue
Weight loss
Pain during sex
Heavier bleeding during periods
A frequent need to urinate

Tips to Protect From This Cancer

Breastfeeding for a year or more       Giving birth to a child
Having had a tubal ligation (getting your tubes tied), both ovaries removed, or a hysterectomy
Having had used birth control pills for five or more years

Breastfeeding for a year or more
Giving birth to a child

Having had a tubal ligation (getting your tubes tied), had both ovaries removed, or had a hysterectomy

Having had used birth control pills for five or more years

Lymphoma (Hodgkin's and Non-Hodgkin's)

Lymphoma is a type of blood cancer which occurs when a type of white blood cell called lymphocyte get transformed to a cancer cell and then grows & multiplies uncontrollably. If a specific type of cancerous lymphocyte called Reed-Sternberg cell is seen, the cancer is Hodgkin's Lymphoma. If the Reed-Sternberg cell is not present, the cancer is Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma.

Screening Aspects

There is no screening test for lymphoma. Get tested immediately on appearance of the symptoms.

There is no screening test for lymphoma. Get tested immediately on appearance of the symptoms.

Testing Methods

Physical examination to check for swollen lymph nodes spleen or liver. Blood test to count the number of cells. MRI and positron emission tomography (PET). Biopsy of lymph node & bone marrow.

Physical examination to check for swollen lymph nodes spleen or liver. Blood test to count the number of cells. MRI and positron emission tomography (PET). Biopsy of lymph node & bone marrow.

Signs and Symptoms

Pain in spine, back pain, leg pain, bone pain or weakness in legs
Stomach pain, constipation/obstruction       Excessive sweating, especially in night
Paralysis of limbs or face, headache, unconsciousness
Fever which is not improving after regular treatment       Weight loss without any reason

Pain in spine, back pain, leg pain, bone pain or weakness in legs

Stomach pain & constipation
Excessive sweating, esp. at night

Paralysis of limbs or face, headache, unconsciousness

Fever which is not improving after regular treatment

Weight loss without any reason

Tips to Protect From This Cancer

Minimise contact with people with infection       Keep good personal hygiene
Build immunity       Protect your skin       Maintain a healthy lifestyle
Avoid being overweight or obese       Avoid diet high in fats, meats and dairy
Quit smoking       Prevent unnecessary exposure to radiation

Minimise contact with people with infection
Protect your skin
Keep good personal hygiene
Build immunity
Quit smoking
Maintain a healthy lifestyle
Avoid being overweight or obese
Avoid diet high in fat, meat, dairy
Prevent unnecessary exposure to radiation

Liver Cancer

In liver cancer, malignant (cancerous) cells form in the tissues of the liver. Main type of liver cell is Hepatocyte and the most common type of liver cancer begins in this type of liver cell.

Screening Aspects

Screening is not done for liver cancer. Further, symptoms are not experienced during early stages of liver cancer. Get tested immediately on appearance of the signs.

Screening is not done for liver cancer. Further, symptoms are not experienced during early stages of liver cancer. Get tested immediately on appearance of the signs.

Testing Methods

Liver function test (Blood test). CT or MRI scans. Angiogram. Biopsy.

Liver function test (Blood test). CT or MRI scans. Angiogram. Biopsy.

Signs & Symptoms

Discomfort in the upper abdomen on the right side       A swollen abdomen
A hard lump on the right side just below the rib cage       Fever       Nausea and vomiting
Pain near the right shoulder blade or in the back       Weight loss for no known reason
Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes)        Dark-colored urine
White, chalky stools       Easy bruising or bleeding       General weakness and fatigue
Loss of appetite or feeling of fullness after a small meal

Discomfort in the upper abdomen on the right side

A swollen abdomen

A hard lump on the right side just below the rib cage

Fever
Nausea and vomiting

Pain near the right shoulder blade or in the back

Weight loss for no known reason

Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes)

Dark-colored urine
White, chalky stools
Easy bruising or bleeding
General weakness and fatigue

Loss of appetite or feeling of fullness after a small meal

Tips to Protect From This Cancer

Hold triglycerides and cholesterol levels within recommended levels
Drink alcohol in moderation & do not drink on empty stomach
Avoid drinking if you have viral hepatitis
It is important to avoid infection with the hepatitis B and C viruses
Avoid being overweight or obese and extra body fat around waist
Follow healthy lifestyle measures, such as exercising, controlling weight & a healthy diet

Hold triglycerides and cholesterol levels within recommended levels

Drink alcohol in moderation & do not drink on empty stomach

Avoid drinking if you have viral hepatitis

It is important to avoid infection with the hepatitis B and C viruses

Avoid being overweight or obese and extra body fat around waist

Follow healthy lifestyle measures, such as exercising, controlling weight & a healthy diet

Prostate Cancer

Prostate cancer begins when cells in the prostate gland start to grow out of control. This small walnut-shaped gland, found only in males, produces the seminal fluid. Easily treated when the cancer is confined to the prostrate and has not spread beyond.

Screening Aspects

Men aged 50 and above need to undergo screening for prostrate cancer. Those above 45 with family history of prostrate cancer may do likewise.

Men aged 50 and above need to undergo screening for prostrate cancer. Those above 45 with family history of prostrate cancer may do likewise.

Screening Methods

Digital Rectal Examination (DRE). Prostrate-Specific Antigen (PSA) blood test.

Digital Rectal Examination (DRE). Prostrate-Specific Antigen (PSA) blood test.

Signs & Symptoms

Difficulty in starting to urinate       Decreased force in the stream of urine
Urinating frequently, especially at night       Need to strain to empty the bladder
Pain or burning during urination       Blood in the urine or semen
Pain in the back, hips, or pelvis that doesn’t go away       Painful ejaculation
Discomfort or pain when sitting, caused by an enlarged prostate
Bone pain       New onset of erectile dysfunction

Difficulty in starting to urinate
Decreased force in urine
Urinating frequently, esp. at night
Need to strain to empty the bladder
Pain or burning during urination
Blood in the urine or semen

Pain in the back, hips, or pelvis that doesn’t go away

Discomfort or pain when sitting, caused by an enlarged prostate

Bone pain
Painful ejaculation
New onset of erectile dysfunction

Tips to Protect From This Cancer

Get your calcium from plant-based food (almonds, tofu, leafy greens) rather than supplements
Watch your calcium intake       Vigorous exercise       Avoid obesity
Eat fewer calories and exercise more so that you maintain a healthy weight
Swap red meat for plant-based protein and fish

Get your calcium from plant-based food (almonds, tofu, leafy greens) rather than supplements

Watch your calcium intake
Vigorously exercise & avoid obesity

Eat fewer calories and exercise more to maintain a healthy weight

Swap red meat for plant-based protein and fish

Brain Tumour

A brain tumor is a growth of abnormal cells in the brain tissue or near it.

Screening Aspects

Screening is not done for brain tumour. Get tested immediately on appearance of the signs.

Screening is not done for brain tumour. Get tested immediately on appearance of the signs.

Testing Methods

Head CT scan, Brain MRI, PET scan

Head CT scan, Brain MRI, PET scan

Signs and Symptoms

Headache or pressure in the head that is worse in the morning       Nausea or vomiting
Headaches that cause waking up at night       Seizures (Fits)       Hearing issues 
Difficulty thinking, speaking or understanding language       Personality or behaviour changes
Weakness or paralysis in one part or one side of your body       Facial numbness or tingling
Balance problems or dizziness (vertigo)       Feeling hungry and gaining weight
Vision problems, such as blurry vision, seeing double or losing sight on the sides of your vision
Confusion in everyday matters, disorientation, memory problems

Headache or pressure in the head that is worse in the morning

Nausea or vomiting
Headaches that cause waking up at night
Seizures (Fits)
Hearing issues

Difficulty thinking, speaking or understanding language

Personality or behaviour changes

Weakness or paralysis in one part or one side of your body

Facial numbness or tingling
Balance problems or dizziness (vertigo)
Feeling hungry and gaining weight

Vision problems, such as blurry vision, seeing double or losing sight on the sides of your vision

Confusion in everyday matters, disorientation, memory problems

Tips to Protect From This Cancer

Ensure adequate sleep because sleep is a friend of brain health
Restrict usage of mobile phone       Avoid smoking       Exercise regularly
Answer mobile with left ear because using right ear makes brain more exposed to radiation
While outdoors, use sunscreen and head cover to protect from UV radiation
Eat a diet rich in fruits and vegetables

Ensure adequate sleep because sleep is a friend of brain health

Restrict usage of mobile phone

Answer mobile phone with left ear because using right ear makes brain more exposed to mobile radiation

While outdoors, use sunscreen and head cover to protect from UV radiation

Avoid smoking
Eat a diet rich in fruits and vegetables
Exercise regularly

Bladder Cancer

Bladder is a hollow muscular organ that stores urine. Bladder cancer begins when in cells that form the inner lining of the bladder grow out of control. Subsequently, the cancer progresses into deeper layers of the bladder wall.

Screening Aspects

Routine screening is not recommended for bladder cancer. However, do get tested when symptoms occur.

Routine screening is not recommended for bladder cancer. However, do get tested when symptoms occur.

Testing Methods

Hematuria test: A blood test to check red blood cells in urine. Cystoscopy: A long, thin, flexible tube with a light & lens is used to see the inside of bladder. Urine analysis. Urine cytology.

Hematuria test: A blood test to check red blood cells in urine. Cystoscopy: A long, thin, flexible tube with a light & lens is used to see the inside of bladder. Urine analysis. Urine cytology.

Signs & Symptoms

Blood or blood clots visible in urine       Blood in urine detected in lab test
Frequent urination       Painful urination or burning sensation during urination
Having to get up to urinate many times during the night
Unexplained pain in the pelvis, abdomen or flank or bone pain
Feeling the need to urinate, but not being able to pass urine
Having trouble urinating or having a weak urine stream

Blood or blood clots visible in urine
Blood in urine detected in lab test
Frequent urination

Painful urination or burning sensation during urination

Having to get up to urinate many times during the night

Unexplained pain in the pelvis, abdomen or flank or bone pain

Feeling the need to urinate, but not being able to pass urine

Having trouble urinating or having a weak urine stream

Tips to Protect From This Cancer

Drink plenty of water every day       Try to avoid exposure to chemicals and dyes
Stop smoking       Avoid chronic urinary infections kidney and bladder stones

Drink plenty of water every day

Avoid chronic urinary infections kidney and bladder stones

Try to avoid exposure to chemicals and dyes
Stop smoking

Thyroid Cancer

In thyroid cancer, malignant (cancer) cells form in the tissues of the thyroid gland.

Screening Aspects

Screening is not done for gallbladder cancer. Get tested immediately on appearance of the signs and symptoms.

Screening is not done for gallbladder cancer. Get tested immediately on appearance of the signs and symptoms.

Checking Methods

Carry out self-checks to detect a lump or tumour by moving fingers on thyroid gland in the middle of the neck right above the collar bone. Also carry out self-check by moving fingers on the sides of your neck to detect an enlarged lymph node.

Carry out self-checks to detect a lump or tumour by moving fingers on thyroid gland in the middle of the neck right above the collar bone. Also carry out self-check by moving fingers on the sides of your neck to detect an enlarged lymph node.

Signs and Symptoms

A lump (nodule) that can be felt through the skin on your neck, near Adam’s apple
Pain in the front of the neck and throat, sometimes going up to the ears
Hoarseness or other voice changes that do not go away       Difficulty breathing
A cough that persists and is not caused by a cold
A feeling that close-fitting shirt collars are becoming too tight
Swollen lymph nodes in your neck       Trouble swallowing

A lump (nodule) that can be felt through the skin on your neck, near Adam’s apple

Swollen lymph nodes in the neck

Pain in the front of the neck and throat, sometimes going up to the ears

Hoarseness or other voice changes that do not go away

Trouble swallowing
Difficulty breathing

A cough that persists and is not caused by a cold

A feeling that close-fitting shirt collars are becoming too tight

Swollen lymph nodes in your neck

Tips to Protect From This Cancer

Avoid unnecessary exposure to radiation, including radiation from medical imaging procedures, especially in young children and especially around the head and neck       Ensure dietary iodine
Exercise daily       Avoidance or cessation of smoking       Avoid being obese
Eat a balanced diet of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, fiber, protein and antioxidants

Avoid unnecessary exposure to radiation, including radiation from medical imaging procedures, especially in young children and especially around the head and neck

Exercise daily
Avoidance or cessation of smoking
Avoid being obese

Eat a balanced diet of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, fiber, well-sourced protein and antioxidants

Ensure dietary iodine

Gallbladder Cancer

In gallbladder cancer malignant (cancer) cells form in the tissues of the gallbladder.

Screening Aspects

Screening is not done for gallbladder cancer. Get tested immediately on appearance of the signs and symptoms.

Screening is not done for gallbladder cancer. Get tested immediately on appearance of the signs and symptoms.

Testing Methods

Liver function test. Blood test to measure the level of following tumour markers: CEA and CA 19-9. Abdominal ultrasound.

Liver function test. Blood test to measure the level of following tumour markers: CEA and CA 19-9. Abdominal ultrasound.

Signs and Symptoms

Abdominal pain, particularly in the upper right portion of the abdomen       Abdominal bloating
Presence of gallstones or have a history of gallstones       Loss of weight without dieting
Yellowed skin and yellowed whites of eyes (Jaundice)       Lumps in the abdomen
Nausea and vomiting       Bloating       Fever       Feeling or being sick

Abdominal pain, particularly in the upper right portion of the abdomen

Abdominal bloating

Presence of gallstones or have a history of gallstones

Yellowed skin and yellowed whites of eyes (Jaundice)

Lumps in the abdomen
Nausea and vomiting
Bloating
Fever
Feeling or being sick
Loss of weight without dieting

Tips to Protect From This Cancer

Get gallstones removed if they are present       Maintain a healthy weight
Be physically active and limit the time you spend sitting or lying down
Follow a healthy eating pattern that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables and whole grains
Limit or avoid red and processed meats, sugary drinks and highly processed foods
Curtail alcohol to 1 drink per day for women or 2 per day for men
Give up smoking       Avoid exposure to chemicals used in the rubber and textile industries

Get gallstones removed if they are present
Maintain a healthy weight

Be physically active and limit the time you spend sitting or lying down

Follow a healthy eating pattern that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables and whole grains

Limit or avoid red and processed meats, sugary drinks and highly processed foods

Curtail alcohol to 1 drink per day for women or 2 per day for men

Give up smoking

Avoid exposure to chemicals used in the rubber and textile industries

Kidney Cancer

Kidney cancer is the abnormal growth of cells in the kidney tissue. Over time, these cancerous cells form a mass called a tumour.

Screening Aspects

Screening for kidney cancer is not recommended. However, do get tested when symptoms appear.

Screening for kidney cancer is not recommended. However, do get tested when symptoms appear.

Testing Methods

Computed Tomography (CT) scans. Renal ultrasounds. Urine analysis. Urine cytology.

Computed Tomography (CT) scans. Renal ultrasounds. Urine analysis. Urine cytology.

Signs & Symptoms

Blood in the urine, which may appear pink or red       Fatigue and tiredness
Pain in the back or side that doesn't go away       Lump in lower back or side of waist
Loss of appetite       Weight loss not caused by dieting       Swelling of the ankles and legs
Anemia       Fever that keeps recurring & is not from a cold, flu or other infections

Blood in the urine, which may appear pink or red

Anemia
Fatigue and tiredness
Pain in the back or side that doesn't go away
Loss of appetite
Lump in lower back or side of waist
Weight loss not caused by dieting
Swelling of the ankles and legs

Fever that keeps recurring & is not from a cold, flu or other infections

Tips to Protect From This Cancer

Control high blood pressure. If you take blood pressure medicine, do not skip doses
Control your blood sugar if you have diabetes
Find out if you’re exposed to certain toxins at work like cadmium, asbestos, and trichloroethylene Avoid prolonged use of NSAID medicines like ibuprofen and naproxen
Quit smoking or using tobacco       Maintain a healthy weight
Check whether the drinking water has contaminants like Arsenic and Radon

Control high blood pressure. If you take blood pressure medicine, do not skip doses

Control your blood sugar if you have diabetes

Find out if you’re exposed to certain toxins at work like cadmium, asbestos, and trichloroethylene

Avoid prolonged use of NSAID medicines like ibuprofen, naproxen

Quit smoking or using tobacco
Maintain a healthy weight

Check whether the drinking water has contaminants like Arsenic and Radon

Endometrial Cancer (Uterine Cancer)

In endometrial cancer, the layer of cells that form the inner lining of the uterus (endometrium) grow out of control.

Screening Aspects

Screening is not done for endometrial cancer. Get tested immediately on appearance of the signs and symptoms. Most cases occur in women after age 55.

Screening is not done for endometrial cancer. Get tested immediately on appearance of the signs and symptoms. Most cases occur in women after age 55.

Testing Methods

Transvaginal ultrasound. Endometrial biopsy.

Transvaginal ultrasound. Endometrial biopsy.

Signs & Symptoms

For pre-menopausal & post-menopausal women: Abnormal uterine bleeding
For post-menopausal women: Irregular menstrual bleeding, spotting, bleeding between periods
Pain during sex       Menstruation from an early age        Menopause at an older age

For pre-menopausal & post-menopausal women: Abnormal uterine bleeding

For post-menopausal women: Irregular menstrual bleeding, spotting, bleeding between periods

Menstruation from an early age
Menopause at an older age
Pain during sex

Tips to Protect From This Cancer

Get to and stay at a healthy weight       Be physically active       Avoid taking estrogen alone
Avoid being overweight       Do not eat a high-fat diet          Give birth to a baby

Get to and stay at a healthy weight
Be physically active
Avoid taking estrogen alone
Avoid being overweight
Do not eat a high-fat diet
Give birth to a baby

Multiple Myeloma

Multiple myeloma is type of blood cancer. It is cancer that forms in plasma cells, which are a type of white blood cells in the bone marrow. Healthy plasma cells fight infections by making antibodies, whereas cancerous plasma cells form tumours in bones of the body.

Screening Aspects

Screening is not done for multiple myeloma. Get tested immediately on appearance of the signs and symptoms.

Screening is not done for multiple myeloma. Get tested immediately on appearance of the signs and symptoms.

Testing Methods

Blood and urine tests to detect abnormal proteins produced by myeloma cells. Examination of bone marrow aspirated by a long needle.

Blood and urine tests to detect abnormal proteins produced by myeloma cells. Examination of bone marrow aspirated by a long needle.

Signs and Symptoms

Bone pain, especially in the spine or chest        Nausea       Constipation
Loss of appetite        Upset stomach       Mental fogginess or confusion       Fatigue
Frequent infections       Weakness or numbness in legs and arms
Severe thirst       Bruising or bleeding more easily       Unexplained weight loss

Bone pain, especially in the spine or chest
Nausea
Constipation
Loss of appetite
Upset stomach
Mental fogginess or confusion
Fatigue
Frequent infections
Unexplained weight loss
Weakness or numbness in legs and arms
Severe thirst
Bruising or bleeding more easily

Tips to Protect From This Cancer

There are no known precautions that can be taken to prevent multiple myeloma. That is because there are no obvious, strong risk factors which lead to multiple myeloma.

There are no known precautions that can be taken to prevent multiple myeloma. That is because there are no obvious, strong risk factors which lead to multiple myeloma.

Pancreatic Cancer

Exocrine glands in pancreas produce enzymes that aid digestion. In the most common form of pancreatic cancer, exocrine cells in the ducts that carry the enzymes, grow out of control and form tumours.

Screening Aspects

Screening is not done for pancreatic cancer. Also, symptoms are not experienced during early stages of pancreatic cancer. Get tested immediately on appearance of the signs.

Screening is not done for pancreatic cancer. Also, symptoms are not experienced during early stages of pancreatic cancer. Get tested immediately on appearance of the signs.

Testing Methods

Blood test for a CA 19-9 Tumour Marker. Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS).

Blood test for a CA 19-9 Tumour Marker. Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS).

Signs & Symptoms

Upper abdominal pain that may spread to the back       Blood clots in the body
Light-colored stools       Dark-colored urine       Itchy skin       Nausea and vomiting
New diagnosis of diabetes or existing diabetes that's becoming more difficult to control
Loss of appetite or unintended weight loss       Fatigue

Upper abdominal pain that may spread to the back

Loss of appetite or unintended weight loss
Fatigue
Light-colored stools
Dark-colored urine
Itchy skin

New diagnosis of diabetes or existing diabetes that's becoming more difficult to control

Blood clots in the body
Nausea and vomiting      

Tips to Protect From This Cancer

Don't smoke. If you do smoke, stop       Lower the fat in your diet
Eat more fruits and vegetables       Avoid too much weight gain and exercise regularly

Don't smoke. If you do smoke, stop
Lower the fat in your diet
Eat more fruits and vegetables

Avoid too much weight gain and exercise regularly

Skin Cancer

Skin cancer is the out-of-control growth of abnormal cells in the epidermis, the outermost skin layer. The epidermis has 3 types of cells: Squamous cells, Basal cells and Melanocytes, cancers arising from which are Squamous cell carcinoma, Basal cell carcinoma and Melanoma respectively.

Screening Aspects

Get screened regularly if you spend lot of time outdoors or have large number of moles or have a family history of skin cancer.

Get screened regularly if you spend lot of time outdoors or have large number of moles or have a family history of skin cancer.

Screening Methods

Visual self-exam by the patient. Clinical examination by the health care provider.

Visual self-exam by the patient. Clinical examination by the health care provider.

Signs & Symptoms

Pearly or waxy bump on the skin       Flat, rough, or scar-like patch on the skin
A sore that bleeds, doesn't fully heal, or that reoccurs       Painful or itchy skin lesion
Moles, birthmarks or other pigmented areas that look abnormal in color, size, shape, or texture
Change in the size, shape or color of an existing spot       A wart-like growth
A scaly or crusty lesion with irregular borders

Pearly or waxy bump on the skin
Painful or itchy skin lesion
Flat, rough, or scar-like patch on the skin
A wart-like growth

A sore that bleeds, doesn't fully heal, or that reoccurs

Moles, birthmarks or other pigmented areas that look abnormal in color, size, shape, or texture

Change in the size, shape or color of an existing spot

A scaly or crusty lesion with irregular borders

Tips to Protect From This Cancer

Stay in shade during 10 am and 4 pm       Avoid tanning and do not use UV tanning beds
Cover up with pants, long-sleeved shirt, a broad-brimmed hat and UV-blocking sunglasses
Use a UVA/UVB sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher, 30 minutes before going outside
Reapply above sunscreen every two hours while remaining outdoors       Don’t get sunburnt

Stay in shade during 10 am - 4 pm
Avoid tanning and do not use UV tanning beds
Don’t get sunburnt

Cover up with pants, long-sleeved shirt, a broad-brimmed hat and UV-blocking sunglasses

Use a UVA/UVB sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher, 30 minutes before going outside

Reapply above sunscreen every two hours while remaining outdoors