According to the American Cancer Society, an estimated 606,880 people in the United States will die from cancer in 2019. What's even more devastating is that between 30% to 50% of cancer cases are likely preventable. Keep reading to find the 20 most common signs and symptoms of various types of cancer.
Persistent Cough
Anemia
Researchers have discovered that there's an unsettling link to increased cancer risk and iron-deficiency anemia. While there is still no clear understanding as to why, one theory suggests that an alteration to "immune activities" caused by iron deficiency may be to blame. Cancer risk for anemic patients includes pancreatic, kidney, liver and bladder cancers. If you've been diagnosed with anemia, talk to your doctor about your potential cancer risk.
Breast Changes
Even though breast cancer is one of the most recognized forms of cancer in the U.S., it's also one of the most prevalent. In 2019, the American Cancer Society estimates that more than 271,000 new cases of breast cancer will be diagnosed and of those patients, 42,260 will die. Recognizing the symptoms, which include breast lumps, nipple discharge and a change in breast texture, are important steps to early detection and a higher survival rate.
Testicle Changes
Like breasts, a man's testes are susceptible to changes caused by cancer. While the American Cancer Society projects there will be 9,560 cases of testicular cancer in 2019, the survival rate is incredibly high, with a five-year survival rate of approximately 95%. Men should look for unusual or new lumps as well as a feeling of heaviness in the testes. In addition to monthly self-checks, it is important for men to have an annual health screening.
Difficulty Urinating
Another cancer symptom that men in particular need to look out for is difficulty urinating. If men are experiencing a delayed stream or their urination is interrupted by stops, it's time to call the doctor. As a known symptom of prostate cancer, it's important that men get checked out as soon as possible, since early detection is linked to a five-year survival rate of nearly 100%.
Hoarseness
Notice that your voice seems more raspy or hoarse than usual? Call the doctor. A common symptom of throat cancer (pharynx, larynx and tonsils) is hoarseness. Men are more than four times as likely as women to die from throat cancer, and if caught early, patients have an approximate 59% survival rate in the first five years.
Lumps and Bumps
While most people know to look out for lumps in the breasts and testes, many don't realize that other foreign lumps on their body also need to be evaluated by a medical professional. Lymphomas (cancer of the lymph nodes) are known to cause lumps in the neck, groin or underarm. Other cancers, like soft tissue sarcomas, can cause lumps in places like the arms, legs or abdomen. When in doubt, let the doctor check you out!
