Signs and Symptoms
If you are experiencing any of the symptoms below, please book an appointment with one of our doctors for a thorough medical examination. Cancer may not always cause symptoms, especially in its early stages. However, as the cancer progresses, signs and symptoms may develop. These can include:
Prostate Cancer
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Urinary Symptoms: Changes in urinary habits may occur, such as:
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Increased frequency of urination, particularly at night (nocturia)
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Difficulty starting or maintaining a steady stream of urine
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Weak or interrupted urine flow
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Pain or burning sensation during urination
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Blood in the urine (hematuria) or semen
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Erectile Dysfunction: Difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection may occur, although this can have many causes other than prostate cancer.
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Pelvic Pain: Discomfort or pain in the pelvic area, lower back, hips, or upper thighs may occur, especially as the cancer spreads.
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Bone Pain: Prostate cancer that has spread to the bones (metastatic prostate cancer) may cause bone pain, particularly in the hips, spine, and ribs.
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Other Symptoms: In advanced cases, prostate cancer may cause symptoms such as unintentional weight loss, fatigue, and weakness.
Colon Cancer
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Changes in Bowel Habits: Persistent diarrhea, constipation, or changes in the consistency or size of stool that last for more than a few days.
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Rectal Bleeding: Blood in the stool, which may appear as bright red or dark in color. Blood may also be noticed on toilet paper after wiping.
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Abdominal Discomfort: Cramping, pain, or discomfort in the abdomen that persists and may be accompanied by bloating.
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Weakness and Fatigue: Unexplained weakness, fatigue, or tiredness that doesn't improve with rest.
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Unexplained Weight Loss: Significant and unexplained weight loss, especially if it occurs rapidly and without changes in diet or physical activity.
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Iron Deficiency Anemia: Low red blood cell count due to chronic blood loss, which may lead to symptoms such as weakness, fatigue, and paleness.
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Incomplete Evacuation: Feeling like the bowel is not completely emptied after a bowel movement.
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Abdominal Pain: Persistent abdominal pain, cramping, or discomfort, particularly if it's associated with other symptoms.
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Nausea or Vomiting: Nausea, vomiting, or feeling of fullness even after eating small meals.
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Obstruction: Bowel obstruction may occur in advanced stages, leading to symptoms such as severe abdominal pain, bloating, and inability to pass stool or gas.
Breast Cancer
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Lump or Mass: One of the most common signs of breast cancer is the presence of a lump or mass in the breast tissue. This lump may feel firm, irregular in shape, and different from the surrounding tissue.
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Changes in Breast Size or Shape: Breast cancer may cause changes in the size or shape of the breast. This could involve swelling, distortion, or asymmetry between the breasts.
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Changes in the Skin: Look out for changes in the skin texture or appearance of the breast. This could include redness, dimpling, puckering, or thickening of the skin. In some cases, the skin may resemble an orange peel (peau d'orange).
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Nipple Changes: Changes in the nipples can also be a sign of breast cancer. Watch for nipple retraction (turning inward), inversion, or discharge, which may be bloody or clear.
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Breast Pain or Discomfort: While breast pain is more commonly associated with benign conditions, persistent or unexplained pain in the breast or armpit should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.
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Changes in Breast Texture: Some individuals may notice changes in the texture of their breast tissue, such as the development of ridges or a "ropy" texture.
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Swelling or Enlargement of the Breast: Breast cancer can cause swelling or enlargement of the breast, especially in advanced stages.
Cervical Cancer
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Abnormal vaginal bleeding:
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Bleeding between periods
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Bleeding after sexual intercourse
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Bleeding after menopause
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Menstrual bleeding that is heavier or longer than usual
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Unusual vaginal discharge:
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Watery, bloody, or foul-smelling discharge that may be pale, brown, or bloody
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Pelvic pain or discomfort:
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Pain during sexual intercourse
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Pain during urination
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Pain in the pelvic area or lower back
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Changes in urinary habits:
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Blood in the urine
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Frequent urination
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Pain or difficulty while urinating
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Pain during intercourse:
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Pain or discomfort during sexual intercourse (dyspareunia)
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