Learn 18 Common Cancer Symptoms and Signs in Men and Women

• Blood in the stool o Blood in the stool should always be investigated by a doctor.

o Hemorrhoids are a common source of rectal bleeding, but because they are so common, they may coexist with malignancy. As a result, even if you have hemorrhoids, you should have a doctor examine your entire digestive tract if you have blood in your bowel movements. o In rare cases, X-ray studies may be sufficient to confirm a diagnosis.

o A colonoscopy is typically advised. Even if you have no symptoms, a yearly colonoscopy is recommended once you reach the age of 50.

o When the source of the bleeding is obvious (for example, recurring ulcers), these tests may not be necessary.

• Anemia with no known cause (low blood count)

o Anemia is a condition in which a person’s blood has fewer red blood cells than expected. Anemia should always be looked into.

o There are many different types of anemia, but iron deficiency anemia is virtually always caused by blood loss. This anemia must be explained unless there is a clear source of continued blood loss.

o While many malignancies can induce anemia, colon cancers are the most common cause of iron deficiency anemia. Endoscopy or X-ray studies of your upper and lower intestine tracts should be performed as part of your evaluation.

• Breast lumps or discharge

o The majority of breast lumps are benign tumors such as fibroadenomas or cysts. However, all breast lumps should be thoroughly examined for the possibility of breast cancer.

o A negative mammography result is rarely enough to analyze a breast mass. Your doctor will need to choose the best X-ray study for you, which could include an MRI or a breast ultrasound.

o A needle aspiration or biopsy is usually required for diagnosis (a small tissue sample).

o Breast discharge is common, but some types of discharge may indicate malignancy. Further assessment is advised if the discharge is bloody or comes from only one nipple.

o It is recommended that women perform monthly breast self-examinations.

• Testicular swollenness

o The majority of men (90%) with testicular cancer have a painless or unpleasant lump on the testicle.

o Some guys have a swollen testicle. Other disorders, such as infections and enlarged veins, can also produce testicular alterations, but any bulge should be investigated.

o It is recommended that men perform monthly testicular self-examinations.

• A shift in urination

o Urinary symptoms include frequent urination, tiny volumes of pee, and slow urine flow, as well as an overall decrease in bladder function.

o Urinary infections (typically in women) or an enlarged prostate gland in men might produce these symptoms. Most men will have harmless prostate enlargement as they age, and they will frequently experience these urine symptoms. These symptoms may also be indicative of prostate cancer. Men who have urinary symptoms should be evaluated further, which may include blood testing and a digital rectal exam. The PSA blood test, its indications, and the interpretation of results should all be discussed with your doctor.

o If cancer is suspected, a prostate biopsy may be required.

o Bladder cancer and pelvic tumors can also induce bladder discomfort and urine frequency.