Many people assume changes in their bodies are simply caused by aging or stress and therefore do not react straight away. An oncologist is urging people to pay close attention to symptoms that persist or gradually become worse, reports UNILAD.
Cancer symptoms are often overlooked
According to the doctor, the early signs of cancer are frequently explained away as stress, aging, or other common health issues.
One woman waited two years for answers
Lydia Southam experienced bloating, frequent urination, heavy periods, and lumps in her abdomen. After multiple medical appointments, she was eventually diagnosed with stage 4 ovarian cancer.
A skin change turned out to be cancer
Jessica Zbinden Webster believed a change on her face was nothing more than a blocked pore. It was later diagnosed as skin cancer.
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Many associate symptoms with aging
Oncologist Dr. Jad Chahoud says that older adults often assume new health issues are simply part of getting older rather than a possible sign of disease.
Persistent changes should be examined
The doctor stresses that symptoms which continue over time or gradually become more severe should not be ignored.
Fatigue can be a warning sign
If exhaustion continues despite getting enough rest and there is no obvious explanation, it can in some cases be linked to cancer.
Unexplained weight loss
According to Dr. Chahoud, losing at least five percent of your body weight over six to twelve months without a clear reason should be medically evaluated.
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Pay attention to changes in bowel habits
Changes in the appearance of your stool or your usual bowel habits can be a sign of colorectal cancer.
Urinary symptoms matter
Frequent urination, especially during the night, or blood in the urine can be symptoms associated with prostate cancer.
Persistent pain should be taken seriously
Long-lasting pain or back pain is often caused by conditions other than cancer, but in some cases it may be linked to cancer affecting the bones, kidneys, pancreas, or other organs.
The doctor's advice
Dr. Jad Chahoud recommends seeing a doctor if symptoms persist or worsen instead of assuming they are simply caused by aging or stress.
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Early action can make a difference
According to Dr. Chahoud, many patients realize after their diagnosis that the symptoms had been present for weeks or even months before they were taken seriously.
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