How to spot cancer early

Unexplained changes

A lump or swelling

Check your whole body - not just your testicles.

Bleeding that is not normal for you

If you cough up blood or notice it in your pee or poo, see your doctor.

Weight loss

It is normal to see small weight changes over time. But a big weight loss, not related to dieting, may be a sign of something more serious.

Pain that does not go away

If you feel pain for more than 4 weeks that you cannot explain, talk to your doctor about it.You’re more likely to survive cancer if you spot it early. But do you know what to look out for?

 

Persistent changes

A cough, changes in your voice or feeling short of breath

Speak to your doctor if you have any of these problems for more than 3 weeks, especially if you are a smoker or ex-smoker.

A sore that does not heal

If a spot, wart or sore does not heal in a few weeks, get it checked by your doctor - even if it is painless.

Bloating

If bloating does not go away within a few weeks talk to your doctor about it.

Difficulty swallowing, indigestion or heartburn

It is not normal to have indigestion or heartburn that happens a lot or is very painful. Difficulty swallowing is not normal either. Get it checked by your doctor.

Mouth or tongue ulcer

Having a mouth or tongue ulcer for three weeks or more is not normal and needs to be checked by your doctor or dentist.

Unusual changes

• A change in your bowel or bladder habits
• If you have constipation, diarrhoea or problems passing urine for more than a few weeks, talk to your doctor.
• A new mole or change to an existing mole
• Get into the habit of checking your skin every month for new moles. Also watch for changes in colour, shape and size of existing moles.

1. New lumps or growths on your skin.
2. A sore or bruise that does not heal.
3. A mole that changes in shape, size or colour or bleeds in unusual circumstances.
4. An ongoing cough or hoarseness that last longer than three weeks.
5. Indigestion or difficulty in swallowing.
6. A change in bowel or bladder habits for no good reason.
7. Shortness of breath.
8. Loss of appetite.
9. Unexplained weight loss or tiredness.
10. Blood anywhere it normally should not be – in urine, bowel motions, or from spitting.