Recognising the symptoms of cancer

Knowing what is normal for you, can help you identify significant changes that could be early warning signs of cancer or another illness.  If you notice any of the following symptoms, make an appointment with your GP and get them checked out:

• a lump anywhere in your body;
• changes in a mole on your skin (a change in shape and colour,  bleeding or itching);
• jaundice;
• a cough or hoarseness that won’t go away;
• a change in bowel habits that won’t go away;
• any abnormal bleeding (from your vagina or back passage, in your urine or when vomiting);
• unexplained significant weight loss (5kg that’s about 11lb) over a couple of months.

You are not wasting your GP’s time if you mention any of these symptoms. There is a better chance of curing many cancers and other illnesses if they are detected and treated early.