Cancer does not have one single symptom. Many warning signs can also be caused by common illnesses, infections or other non-cancer conditions. What matters is a change that is unexplained, unusual for you, or does not go away.
Ten signs worth checking
1. A new lump or swelling. 2. Unexplained weight loss. 3. A persistent cough or change in voice. 4. Blood in stool or urine, or unusual bleeding. 5. A change in bowel or bladder habits. 6. A mouth sore or ulcer that does not heal. 7. A mole or skin lesion that changes. 8. Difficulty swallowing or persistent indigestion. 9. Ongoing pain without a clear explanation. 10. Persistent fatigue or fever without an obvious cause.
When is it time to seek help?
Make an appointment if a symptom is persistent, worsening, recurring or unusual for you. Seek urgent medical care for severe bleeding, breathing difficulty, sudden severe pain, fainting or another emergency. Do not wait for every symptom on this list to appear.
What should you tell the doctor?
Explain when the symptom started, how often it occurs, whether it is changing, and any tobacco or alcohol use or relevant family history. Bring a list of medicines and previous test reports. The doctor will decide whether an examination or tests are needed.
Important: These signs do not confirm cancer. They are reminders to seek timely medical advice—not reasons to panic or self-diagnose.
Official information and further reading
- ICMR–National Institute of Cancer Prevention and Research: Warning signs
- National Health Mission: Cancer and NCD screening information
This article is for general awareness only. It is not a diagnosis, prescription or substitute for personalised medical advice. Medical content should be reviewed by a qualified clinician before publication. Scheme rules, hospital services and helpline details can change; verify them with official sources.