In an age where a quick internet search often replaces a doctor's visit, a leading medical expert is urging the public, especially younger adults, to pay close attention to their bodies. Dr Anthony Cuncliffe, a GP and the Lead Medical Adviser at Macmillan Cancer Support, has highlighted six critical warning signs that could indicate cancer and should never be dismissed.
Recent studies show a concerning rise in several cancer types, including rectal, colon, blood, breast, and kidney cancers, among people under the age of 50. This trend makes recognising the often-subtle early symptoms more vital than ever. While symptoms like unexplained weight loss or persistent fatigue are common and usually harmless, Dr Cuncliffe stresses that if they last for more than three weeks, they warrant a professional check-up.
Key Cancer Symptoms You Need to Know
Dr Cuncliffe has outlined the specific symptoms that should prompt a visit to your GP. The goal is not to cause alarm but to encourage early detection, which significantly improves the chances of successful and curative treatment.
Unexplained Lumps and Skin Changes
Discovering a new lump or a bump that changes in size or texture is a classic sign that should be investigated. "A lot of people will be aware of things like a lump and a new lump or a changing lump, wherever it is on the body, is always something that we would want somebody to present with very early," Dr Cuncliffe advises. He adds that even if it seems insignificant, it's better to be safe.
Similarly, any changes to your skin need attention. This includes new moles or existing ones that begin to change shape, colour, or size. "If somebody gets a new one of those, or one they may have had for a while, but it starts to change... the colour may have gone from being really even to uneven... all these things are symptoms we want someone to present with straightaway," he says.
Unexplained Bleeding and Altered Bowel Habits
Bleeding without an obvious cause, such as an injury, is a major red flag. This includes blood in your stool, on toilet paper, unexplained bruising, or bleeding from the mouth. Any new bleeding should lead to a prompt consultation with a healthcare professional for tests.
Dr Cuncliffe also emphasises the importance of monitoring your bowel habits. A change that persists for three weeks or more, whether it's new diarrhoea, constipation, or a significant change in the appearance of your stools, should not be ignored. "Even if it seems minor to you, if it's a change from your regular habit that's lasting for three weeks or more, we want you to present to a healthcare professional," he states.
Persistent Cough and Unexplained Weight Loss
While coughs are common, especially in winter, a cough that lingers for over three weeks needs assessment. Dr Cuncliffe is clear that this applies to everyone, including non-smokers, as lung cancer can affect anyone.
Finally, unintended weight loss is a symptom that can indicate various underlying conditions, including multiple cancers. If you are losing weight without trying through diet or exercise, it is absolutely something your doctor should know about.
Dr Cuncliffe's final message is one of balance: don't panic, but don't dismiss persistent changes. "We tend to use this period of three weeks to try and not overthink things that are common and short-lived, but also we don't want people brushing things under the carpet," he says. Early diagnosis dramatically improves the success of treatment, so if you have any concerns, the most important step is to come forward and talk to a GP.
