7 warning signs of cancer in your body: When to talk to your doctor

Cancer affects millions of people worldwide, and while the word itself can be frightening, the good news is that early detection and treatment significantly improve outcomes—which is why it’s important to pay attention to your body.

As many cancer symptoms can be subtle or easily dismissed as minor health issues, here are some basic warning signs of cancer in your body to pay attention to, so you can better understand when to seek medical attention.

7 warning signs of cancer in your body

The warning signs of cancer in your body vary widely depending on the type and location of the disease, but certain symptoms should never be ignored. The American Cancer Society identifies several key warning signs of cancer in your body, which can easily be remembered by the acronym CAUTION:

1. Change in bowel or bladder habits: Persistent issues such as diarrhea, constipation, changes in stool consistency, blood in urine or stool, or frequent urination may indicate colorectal, bladder or prostate cancer.
2. A sore that does not heal: Wounds that don't heal within two weeks may signal skin or oral cancer.
3. Unusual bleeding or discharge: Abnormal vaginal bleeding, blood in urine or stool, persistent cough with blood or unusual nipple discharge should be looked at by a doctor.
4. Thickening or lump in the breast, testicles or anywhere on the body: Any lump should be examined promptly.
5. Indigestion or difficulty swallowing: Persistent problems, especially with pain, may indicate esophageal, stomach or throat cancer.
6. Obvious changes in warts or moles: Changes in size, color, shape or texture should be evaluated.
7. Nagging cough or hoarseness: If it lasts more than two weeks, particularly in smokers or those with a family history of lung cancer, talk to your doctor. 

Beyond these classic warning signs of cancer in your body, a few other symptoms deserve attention, including:

• Unexplained weight loss of 10 pounds or more
• Persistent fatigue that doesn't improve with rest
• Fever without apparent cause
• Persistent pain in any part of the body

Here are three things to consider when evaluating whether your symptoms warrant a visit to the doctor:

You know your body best, so don’t hesitate to see your doctor if anything feels off. Learning to identify these warning signs of cancer in your body empowers you to seek timely medical care when needed.

Cancer risk factors to consider

Distinguishing between normal body changes and potentially serious warning signs of cancer in your body can be challenging. Understanding your personal risk factors can help you assess whether a symptom warrants medical attention.

Common cancer risk factors include:

• Lifestyle factors, choices and environmental exposures: These are the causes of a substantial majority of cancer cases and deaths. Some studies suggest that up to 40% to 50% of cancers are preventable through lifestyle changes.
  • Smoking and tobacco use is consistently the single most significant preventable cause of cancer and cancer deaths.
  • Excess body weight, obesity, poor diet and physical inactivity are major combined risk factors, responsible for a significant percentage of cases, especially for cancers of the breast, colon and esophagus.
  • A high level of alcohol consumption also accounts for a notable percentage of cancer cases and deaths.
  • Too much sun exposure is the primary cause of skin cancers.
• Age: Considered the single most important risk factor, age is obviously something a person cannot control. The risk of developing cancer increases dramatically as you get older, most likely due to the accumulation of cellular damage and less effective repair mechanisms over time. Most cancers are diagnosed in adults over the age of 50 or 65.
• Other medical conditions: Chronic infections are significant risk factors all over the world. In developing countries, cancer-causing infections (such as HPV, hepatitis B and C and H. pylori bacteria) are responsible for a larger proportion of cancers than in developed nations. Other conditions, like chronic inflammation and immunosuppression, also elevate risk.
• Family history: Inherited genetic mutations play a role in only 5 – 10% percent of all cancers. While important for people with specific genetic syndromes (like BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutations), lifestyle and environmental factors determine whether cancer manifests in most people.

Trust your instincts. If something feels different or wrong, even if you can't articulate exactly what it is, it's worth discussing with your healthcare provider. You know your body better than anyone else and recognizing potential warning signs of cancer in your body is an important part of maintaining your health.

How to talk to your doctor

Approaching your doctor about potential warning signs of cancer in your body can feel overwhelming, but it’s always better to get answers. Here's how to make the most of your appointment:

• Prepare thoroughly before your visit. Make a list of all your symptoms in your smartphone, including when they started, how they've changed and what makes them better or worse. Note any family history of cancer and compile a list of current medications and supplements. Being prepared helps you communicate potential warning signs of cancer in your body more effectively.
• Be specific and detailed when describing symptoms. Instead of saying "I don't feel well," explain exactly what you're experiencing. For example, you might say, "I've had a persistent cough for three weeks that's worse in the morning and sometimes produces blood-tinged phlegm."
• Express your concerns directly. Don't be afraid to say that you are worried about cancer. Your doctor needs to understand your level of concern to provide appropriate reassurance or investigation.
• Ask questions about next steps, testing options and timelines. Important questions include:
  • "What tests do you recommend?"
  • "How soon should these tests be done?"
  • "What are we looking for?"
  • "When will I get results?"
• Request explanations in language you understand. If medical terminology is confusing, ask for clarification. Your doctor can explain things in terms that make sense to you.
• Discuss your risk factors including family history, lifestyle factors and previous health conditions. This information helps your doctor assess your individual risk and determine appropriate screening or testing.

Taking your health into your own hands

Remember that most symptoms have benign explanations, and discussing concerns about warning signs of cancer in your body with your doctor doesn't mean you have cancer. However, early detection saves lives, and prompt medical attention for concerning symptoms is always the right choice.

Your primary care physician is your first line of defense against cancer. They can evaluate symptoms, order appropriate tests and refer you to specialists when necessary. Don't let fear prevent you from seeking care—addressing concerns early provides the best possible outcomes.

If you're experiencing any concerning symptoms or have questions about cancer screening, don't wait. Contact your healthcare provider today.

Explore our comprehensive cancer care and screening services or learn more about innovative approaches to cancer prevention through the Baylor Scott & White Texas Cancer Interception Institute.