Cancer: Symptoms, Risk Factors, Screening and Treatment

Cancer is a group of diseases characterized by uncontrolled cell growth that can invade nearby tissues or spread to other parts of the body.

Many cancers form solid tumors, but some—including leukemia—do not. Not every tumor is cancerous, and not every cancer has spread at the time of diagnosis. National Cancer Institute

What Are the Warning Signs of Cancer?

Symptoms vary by cancer type and location. Some cancers cause few or no symptoms early on, but that doesn't mean they are always discovered at an advanced stage.

Changes that deserve medical attention include:

• A new lump or swelling
• Unexplained weight loss
• Persistent fatigue
• A cough or hoarseness that does not improve
• Difficulty swallowing
• Changes in bowel or bladder habits
• Unusual bleeding, including blood in urine or stool
• A new or changing mole, or a sore that does not heal

These symptoms often have causes other than cancer. Talk with a healthcare provider about new, persistent or worsening changes, and do not wait for pain to develop before seeking an evaluation. National Cancer Institute.

Cancer Risk Factors and Prevention

Cancer develops through changes in genes that regulate cell growth. Some changes are inherited, while others occur over time or result from harmful exposures. Family history can increase risk, but it does not necessarily mean someone will develop cancer. National Cancer Institute

No lifestyle change guarantees prevention. However, you can reduce the risk of certain cancers by:

• Avoiding tobacco and secondhand smoke
• Drinking less alcohol or not drinking at all
• Staying physically active and maintaining a healthy weight
• Protecting your skin from ultraviolet exposure and avoiding tanning beds
• Getting recommended HPV and hepatitis B vaccinations

A balanced eating pattern also supports overall health. Share your family’s cancer history with your provider to discuss whether additional risk assessment is appropriate. CDC, Cancer Prevention Guidance.

Which Cancer Screenings Do You Need?

Cancer screening looks for cancer or precancerous changes in people without symptoms. Depending on your age, medical history and risk factors, recommended tests may include:

• Mammograms for breast cancer
• HPV tests or Pap tests for cervical cancer
• Stool tests or colonoscopy for colorectal cancer
• Low-dose CT scans for certain people at increased risk of lung cancer

Some screenings can help prevent cancer by identifying abnormalities that can be treated or removed before cancer develops.

Screening is not available or recommended for every cancer. Your provider can explain the appropriate tests, timing, benefits and potential harms. If you have symptoms, seek an evaluation rather than waiting for your next screening. National Cancer Institute

How is Cancer Diagnosed?

Diagnosis depends on the suspected cancer. Your provider may review your personal and family medical history, perform a physical exam, and order laboratory tests or imaging.

A biopsy is often needed to confirm a diagnosis. During a biopsy, doctors collect cells or tissue samples and examine them for signs of cancer. No single test diagnoses every type of cancer. National Cancer Institute

What Cancer Treatments Are Available?

Treatment depends on the cancer’s type, stage and biological characteristics, along with the person’s overall health and preferences. Options may include:

• Surgery to remove cancerous tissue
• Radiation therapy to destroy cancer cells or shrink tumors
• Chemotherapy to kill cancer cells or stop their growth
• Targeted therapy to act on specific features of cancer cells
• Hormone therapy for cancers that use hormones to grow
• Immunotherapy to help the immune system fight cancer

Treatment may aim to cure cancer, control its growth or relieve symptoms. Side effects vary by treatment; hair loss is not inevitable with every chemotherapy regimen. Treatment Options, Chemotherapy Guidance

Take the Next Step for Your Health

Concerned about a symptom, family history or recommended cancer screening? Schedule a primary care visit with tru Primary & Urgent Care to discuss your concerns and appropriate next steps.