In this special section, we reveal the subtle signs of cancer and consult with medical professionals on the importance of screening and early detection. Together, let’s navigate the path to resilience and triumph over cancer, proving that with awareness and proactive measures, we are truly “Stronger Than Cancer.”
Beyond the Surface
Recognizing Early Signs of Cancer
Unexplained Weight Loss
Unexplained weight loss, though welcomed by those seeking to shed pounds, becomes a concern when the drop exceeds 10 pounds without explanation. Sudden, unexplained weight loss warrants attention from your doctor, as it may indicate an underlying issue, potentially related to cancer.
Fatigue
Extreme fatigue, linked to various issues, including vitamin deficiencies and Type 2 diabetes, can also signify cancer. If fatigue significantly impacts your quality of life, it’s time to see a doctor.
Fever
It may be the flu or something more. According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, recurring fevers at night, accompanied by night sweats and no apparent signs of infection, may be your body trying to warn you of something more serious.
Pain
If you’re experiencing pain, there should be a reason for it: a stress headache from work, stubbing your toe on the coffee table, or an accidental paper cut. Of course, if you’re experiencing pain with no apparent cause, it could be cancer, which causes pain from a tumor or mass pushing on specific areas of the body, releasing chemicals or metastasis (the spreading of cancer).
Skin Changes
Our skin often changes with the weather – drying out in the winter or suffering from sunburn in the summer – but changes in the skin can also indicate issues going on inside our body. Jaundice or alterations in moles (asymmetry, jagged edges, irregular borders, changes in color, or size increase), often signal potential internal issues.
Additional symptoms to be vigilant about include shortness of breath, abnormal bleeding (coughing up blood), lumps, difficulty swallowing, feeling full, and changes in bodily functions. Monitoring and promptly addressing these signs can aid in early detection and timely intervention.
Screening for Tomorrow
A Proactive Approach to Cancer Detection
Breast, cervical, colon and lung cancers can often be detected early through screening, emphasizing the pivotal role of timely identification in their management.
Lung Cancer
Approximately 236,000 Americans are diagnosed with lung cancer each year. Early detection is facilitated by chest CT scans, advised for high-risk individuals aged 50-80 with a 20 pack-year smoking history, current smokers or those who quit within 15 years. Prior to the brief 10-minute scan, a discussion with a shared decision-maker, as highlighted by Dr. Lary Robinson, Director of Moffitt Cancer Center’s Lung Cancer Early Detection Center, evaluates the procedure’s pros and cons.
Colon Cancer
“The power of a colonoscopy is twofold,” says Dr. Jaime Sanchez, a board-certified colon and rectal surgeon at AdventHealth Carrollwood. “It can spot cancer early but it can even prevent cancer entirely. This is because polyps can turn into colon cancer slowly, usually over years.” By being preventive, you can find issues and treat them immediately, reducing your risk of ever developing cancer.
Cervical Cancer
“The most important things you can do for cervical cancer screening,” says Dr. Robert Wenham, Chair of the Gynecologic Oncology Program at Moffitt Cancer Center, “are to get your HPV vaccination, follow your age appropriate pap and HPV screening prescribed by your doctor, use barrier condoms liberally and see your doctor for any abnormal bleeding or symptoms despite the previous recommendations.”
Breast Cancer
“To determine the best screening approach for breast cancer, the first step is a risk assessment based on personal and family history,” says Dr. Robert Gabordi, Medical Director of Breast Oncology at St. Joseph’s Hospitals.
“We recommend screening mammography beginning at age 40 (in a normal risk female) and continuing biannually,” notes Dr. Mia Jackson, Medical Director of Women’s Imaging for SDI Radiology. “Annual screening reduces breast cancer mortality by 40%. I also tell women to do a monthly breast exam, same time each month and if any concerning lumps are felt, come see me.”
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