Cancer can be described as a group of diseases that alter normal cell growth and have the ability to spread to other body parts. However, the lifespan of those living with cancer has recently been increased. This has been made possible by cancer diagnosis through improved cancer screenings for a variety of cancers such as  thyroid, breast, lung, kidney, prostate, colon, skin cancer, lymphoma, and myeloma. Screenings help to identify the disease at an earlier age, which makes it easy to treat with medications such as gavreto, xtandi, opdivo, erleada, neulasta, relugolix, and medical treatments, like chemotherapy, at health care clinics. You may also opt to participate in clinical research.

In the pursuit of supporting the fight against cancer, numerous charities and foundations stand out for their impactful contributions. The American Cancer Society (ACS) takes a multifaceted approach, channeling funds into groundbreaking research, patient assistance programs, and educational initiatives. The National Cancer Institute (NCI), a vital arm of the National Institutes of Health, plays a pivotal role in advancing cancer research and facilitating clinical trials, contributing significantly to our understanding of the disease. For those passionate about combating breast cancer, Susan G. Komen for the Cure is a global leader, focusing on research funding, education, and support for individuals affected by this prevalent form of cancer. Meanwhile, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital stands as a beacon of hope for pediatric cancer patients, ensuring that families never face financial burdens during their child’s treatment. The Cancer Research Institute (CRI) champions immunotherapy, funding research and fostering public awareness about this innovative cancer treatment. Lastly, the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS) is dedicated to finding cures for blood cancers, providing support, and advocating for policies that benefit patients. Supporting these charities empowers ongoing efforts to conquer cancer on multiple fronts, from groundbreaking research to compassionate patient care.

Here are the general symptoms of cancer:

1. Fatigue
This is a different kind of fatigue, unlike the one you feel after a long day of work or engaging activities. This is a type of fatigue that is extreme and doesn’t go just by resting. This type of fatigue can be an early sign of cancer. One dangerous factor about cancer is that it uses the body nutrients to grow. The nutrients do not replenish in the body, thus making you feel fatigued. However, you should know there are many other causes of fatigue, but you should visit a doctor immediately if it gets persistent.

2. Skin changes
The skin is the largest organ in the body; therefore, it is vital to our general health. Jaundice, which may cause yellowing of eyes and fingertips, can be a sign of an infection. There might be other causes that may lead to these, but you should get checked in case of such symptoms. Other signs may include a change in moles if it is asymmetrical or has jagged edges. It may also be having funny irregular borders.

3. Weight loss
Weight loss may have resulted from different factors. However, there might be an unexplained weight loss with no good reason. This will be enough reason to call your doctor. There is insignificant weight loss, which is normal, and you shouldn’t be worried about it.

4. Changes in bowel or bladder habits
This can be a sign of bowel or prostate cancer. Bowel cancer causes blockage in the passage leading to constipation. It may also cause diarrhea, gas pains, and blood in the stool if you have constant urination problems that include difficulty while beginning to urinate or that frequent feeling you want to urinate. Other symptoms that may cause alarm for prostate or bladder infections include blood in the urine and painful urination. However, you must be cautious as many men develop prostate cancer without showing any symptoms.

5. Unusual bleeding or discharge
This is another common sign of cancer. A good example of unusual discharge is virginal discharge or bleeding. This may be an early sign of uterus cancer. In case you detect these symptoms, you should see your doctors as soon as possible. Cancer of the uterus is treatable when detected early. In the modern error, we are fortunate as the Pap test can detect cervical cancer early, even before any signs and symptoms.

These are just some of the signs that may be affecting cancer patients. There are many other signs, but these are the most common signs and easy to detect. In case you note any of these signs, you should not hesitate to call your doctor. The information will help you stay informed and stay healthy.