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Signs and symptoms of cancer

There are over 200 different types of cancer which can cause many different symptoms.

Experts agree that the symptoms on this page are the most important ones to look out for. They are often caused by less serious problems but it’s best to be safe.

When cancer is found at an early stage, it is easier to treat and many people can be cured. So it’s very important to know what’s normal for your body and to look out for any unexplained persistent changes.

Men and women should look out for the following symptoms:

• An unusual lump or swelling anywhere on the body (including on the neck, armpit, abdomen, groin, testicle or breast area)
• A mole change(change in size, shape or colour of a mole)
• A sore that won’t heal after several weeks
• A mouth or tongue ulcer that lasts longer than three weeks
• A cough or croaky voice that lasts longer than three weeks
• Persistent difficulty swallowing or indigestion
• Problems passing urine
• Blood in your urine
• Blood in your bowel motions
• Change to more frequent bowel motions that lasts longer than six weeks
• Unexplained weight loss or heavy night sweats
• An unexplained pain or ache that lasts longer than four weeks

Women should also look out for:

• An unusual breast change
• Bleeding from the vagina after the menopause or between periods