Human Resources
General Cancer Awareness
Wed, 29 Aug 2012 09:02:00 BST
Being aware of your body and what is normal for you is so important. If you know what is normal for you, it is easier to spot when something is different.
Quite often we may notice something different about ourselves but not think much of it. This often happens as we get older, we expect our bodies to starting behaving differently, but don't be tempted to just put something down to getting older without seeing a doctor first. Let them know what you have noticed.
Finding cancer at an early stage often makes treatment easier and the likelihood of success much better. Finding cancer sooner rather than later really can make a difference.
We all lead busy lives and whilst taking time to visit the doctor may seem inconvenient, there are some things that we just need to take time for and our health is one of them.
Signs & Symptoms
An unusual lump or swelling anywhere on your body
A change in size, shape or colour of a mole
A sore throat that won't heal after several weeks
A mouth or tongue ulcer that lasts longer than 3 weeks
A cough or croaky voice that lasts longer than 3 weeks
Persistent difficulty in swallowing or indigestion
Problems passing urine
Blood in your urine
Blood in your bowel motions
A change to more frequent bowel motions that lasts longer than 6 weeks
Unexplained weight loss or heavy night sweats
An unexplained pain or ache that lasts longer than 4 weeks
An unusual breast change
Bleeding from the vagina after the menopause or between periods.
If you develop any of the symptoms on this list it doesn't definitely mean you have cancer - usually it will turn out to be something much less serious, but it is important to get yourself checked out. Your GP will be keen to see you if you develop any of these symptoms.
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