Recognizing warning signs early can increase survival rates by up to 90%. Know what to look for.
Most common cancer in women. Early detection rate: 90% survival.
New lump in breast or underarm
Inversion, discharge, or redness
Dimpling, puckering, or redness
Any new lump - get checked within 1 week
Common in India due to tobacco use. Highly treatable if caught early.
In mouth that don't heal
Persistent for >2 weeks
Or moving tongue/jaw
Non-healing ulcer >2 weeks - see doctor now
Preventable with regular screening. HPV vaccine available.
Between periods or after menopause
Watery, bloody, or foul-smelling
During intercourse or otherwise
Affects both men and women. Early detection crucial for treatment success.
Extreme tiredness not relieved by rest
Recurrent fever or infections
More than 5kg in a month
Nosebleeds, bleeding gums
Neck, armpits, groin - painless
Drenching sweats requiring clothes change
• Family history of blood cancers • Chemical exposure (benzene) • Previous chemo/radiation • Smoking • Weakened immune system
Leading cause of cancer death worldwide. Affects both smokers and non-smokers.
Lasting more than 3 weeks
Blood or rust-colored phlegm
Worsens with deep breathing/coughing
New or worsening breathlessness
Voice changes lasting >2 weeks
With loss of appetite
Smoking: #1 cause (80-90% of cases)
Secondhand smoke: Increases risk by 20-30%
Radon gas: #2 cause in non-smokers
Family history: Increases risk 2-3 times
Most common cancer in men. Slow-growing but requires monitoring.
Frequent urination, especially at night
Difficulty starting/stopping
Requires immediate attention
New onset or worsening
If cancer spreads to bones
Age 50+: Annual PSA blood test + digital rectal exam
Age 45+: If family history or African-American
Age 40+: If multiple family members had prostate cancer
Most common cancer in men aged 15-35. Highly treatable when caught early.
Painless, pea-sized or larger
Or feeling of heaviness
In testicle or scrotum
Lower back pain (if spreads)
| Cancer Type | Who Should Screen | When to Start | Screening Method | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Breast Cancer | All women | Age 40 | Mammography | Every 1-2 years |
| Cervical Cancer | Women 21-65 years | Age 21 | Pap smear | Every 3 years |
| Prostate Cancer | Men 50+ | Age 50 | PSA test + DRE | Annual |
| Lung Cancer | Heavy smokers (30+ pack years) | Age 50 | Low-dose CT scan | Annual |
| Colorectal | All adults | Age 45 | Colonoscopy | Every 10 years |
| Oral Cancer | Tobacco/alcohol users | Age 30 | Visual examination | Every year |
| Testicular | All men 15-55 | Age 15 | Self-examination | Monthly |
| Blood Cancer | High-risk individuals* | Symptoms appear | CBC blood test | As needed |
*High risk: Family history, chemical exposure, previous cancer treatment
Early detection is your best defense against cancer.