Cancer Warning Symptoms: 1.5 million cases of cancer are increasing every year in the country, learn the 3 most common symptoms of this deadly disease.

News Topical, Digital Desk : Early Cancer Symptoms You Should Not Ignore: Cancer cases are rapidly increasing worldwide. The reason for this is often attributed to people being careless and not paying attention to early symptoms, but this is not the case. The real reason is that early signs of cancer are often very mild, vague, and easily overlooked. Cancers, especially those related to the stomach and chest, initially grow internally without any obvious symptoms. Mild swelling, minor pain, or fatigue are often attributed to acidity, stress, or aging. As a result, by the time someone thinks, "I should get it checked now," the disease has already reached stage 3 or 4

The rising burden of cancer in India

Cancer cases are steadily increasing in India. According to 2024 data, more than 1.5 million new cancer cases are being diagnosed in the country each year. India now ranks among the top three countries in the world in terms of total cases. It is also worrying that a large number of patients are being diagnosed in advanced stages of the disease, and even younger people are becoming affected. This makes early detection and awareness more important than ever.

Why are the initial symptoms ignored?

Dr. Gopal Sharma, a medical oncologist at Max Super Speciality Hospital, Vaishali, told TOI that cancer usually doesn't show any major or alarming symptoms initially. His clinic often receives patients who have been experiencing symptoms for months but have ignored them, assuming they are related to stress, age, or lifestyle. The doctor says that delaying treatment often causes more harm than the disease itself.

People ignore these symptoms thinking they are normal.

Persistent fatigue, unexplained weight loss, or changes in appetite are signs that people often attribute to age or work pressure. Long-term indigestion, bloating, or changes in bowel habits are also often mistaken for poor eating habits. Experts say that if any symptoms persist for more than two to three weeks and there's no clear cause, it's important to see a doctor.

Never ignore these three symptoms

According to doctors, at any age, if there is unexplained weight loss, any lump or swelling persists for a long time, or there is abnormal bleeding in urine, stool or mouth, then immediate examination is necessary.

Read More: Cancer Warning Symptoms: 1.5 million cases of cancer are increasing every year in the country, learn the 3 most common symptoms of this deadly disease.