Signs of cancer

Did you ever think you might have cancer? The thought crosses everyone's mind at some time or other. What are the signs of cancer, and what is cancer, anyway?

Cancer is defined as abnormal cells with uncontrolled cell growth. It basically takes over the body one cell at a time. The ironic thing is that, often, cancer is curable, especially if detected at an early stage. What are some signs of cancer? Some general warning signs of cancer include, but are not limited to:

-a sore throat that won't go away

-persistant hoarsenss

-unexplained lump

-change in bowel habits

-unusual discharge from any site on the body

-persistant bleeding or bruising

-difficulty swallowing

-changes in a wart or mole

Tumors are common cancer types. Tumors develop when abnormal cells start to grow out of control. Tumors may be close enough to the skin to feel them, but not always. Tumors are either benign (not cancerous) or malignant(cancer). Cancer is not completely understood even in today's medical technology. Things that come into play include, genetics, our environment(stress, pollution), health habits and lifestyle.

Cancer usually begins in one specific area or organ, but it often metastisizes or spreads. Once it spreads, it is much harder to treat, that's why early detection is so important. It is possible to have cancer anywhere in the body, so if you suspect something, don't be embarrassed or afraid to go to the doctor. That old saying, better safe than sorry, applies.

There are a few home tests you can do to test for cancer. You can test yourself for breast cancer by doing a self breast exam. Get instructions to make sure you are doing it correctly. If you feel a lump, your doctor should examine you and you may have a mammography.

Colorectal cancer has a home test to check for occult(hidden) blood in the

stool. Lymph node cancer: you can examine and feel your lymph nodes and let your doctor know if you find swelling or a lump, in the neck, armpits, groin. Oral cancer (especially if you smoke or chew tobacco), self examine your mouth, teeth, tongue, gums. Let your doctor know of any sores, swelling etc. Skin cancer: self exam, check for any unhealing sores, changes in moles or warts, report to your doctor. Testicular cancer: self exam: report pain, unusual lumps, hardness (get instruction to make sure you are doing it correctly), report to doctor, this test is done at male's physical. Other testing for cancer done by a doctor include:

-pap smear for women (should be done annually to check for cervical cancer)

-sigmoidoscopy (checks for colon cancer)

-biopsies (surgically removing part of tissue or lump to test for cancer)

-PSA level-blood test to check for prostate cancer

-exam of prostate- rectal exam done by a doctor to feel for enlargement of the

prostate gland in men.

Also, know your family history of cancer. The closer the relation, the greater the risk.

Other ways to help yourself are eating a balanced diet, drinking plenty of water cut down stress, get plenty of rest, stop smoking, limit red meats and fat, exercise, get to your body's ideal weight range, don't drink alcohol or chew tobacco.

There are other specific signs that go along with cancer, such as fatigue,

weakeness, paleness, pain, etc., but these are all in later stages and also are associated with treatments of cancer such as chemotherapy.

There are things we can do to prevent cancer, although sometimes the heredity factor plays a major role. Start today, take an active part in preventing cancer from invading your life.