Cancer Signs and Symptoms

Why is it important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of cancer?

Early detection of cancer leads to early initiation of treatment, which can save your life. Therefore, it is advantageous to recognise cancer signs and symptoms. Although the symptoms may not exclusively indicate cancer in most individuals, diagnosing cancer early is very important.

Identify cancer signs and symptoms and when to make an appointment with a doctor.

8 warning signs of cancer

Generally, warning signs of cancer may not necessarily be cancer symptoms in most individuals. However, if you suspect that you are experiencing any warning signs of cancer and you are unsure about them, do make an appointment with your doctor.

Persistent cough, breathlessness, chest pain and hoarse voice
- If you experience cough for longer than 3 weeks, breathlessness, chest pain or hoarseness in your voice, have it checked out by a doctor.
  Read more about lung cancer.
Changes in bowel pattern
- Change in stool colour, consistency, size, or shape for more than 3 weeks, without obvious explanations.
- Sensation of incomplete bowel emptying after passing motion.
  Read more about colorectal cancer.
Unusual bleeding or discharge
- Blood in urine. Read more about kidney cancer.
- Blood in stool. Read more about colorectal cancer.
- Bleeding from the vagina between periods or after menopause. Read more about cervical cancer.
- Abnormal nosebleed. Read more about nasopharyngeal cancer.
- Coughing up blood. Read more about lung cancer.
- Blood in vomit. Read more about stomach cancer.
- Unusual discharge from the body, for example from the nipple. Read more about breast cancer.
Lump in breast or other parts of body
- Lump in the breast. Read more about breast cancer.
- Lump in the scrotum. Read more about testicular cancer.
- Lump in the neck. Read more about nasopharyngeal cancer.
Changes in skin mole or a sore that does not heal
- See a doctor if there are changes in the shape, size, or colour of a mole, or if it itches, crusts, flakes or bleed.
- Look out for sores that does not improve over time, becomes painful or starts bleeding.
  Read more about skin cancer.
Difficulty swallowing, chronic indigestion or abdominal discomfort
- Difficulty swallowing.
- Feeling full with little or no food intake.
- Abdominal pain or bloating for over 3 weeks.
  Read more about stomach cancer.
Itchy or yellow skin
- Itchy skin, or if the skin and the white part of the eyes turn yellowish.
  Read more about liver cancer.
Weight loss and bruising
- Unexpected weight loss.
- Easy to bruise or bleed.
  Read more about blood cancers (leukaemia and lymphoma)

The above are general cancer signs and symptoms. For more detailed information regarding signs and symptoms of specific cancers, please refer to the individual cancer articles available by accessing the interactive human body map for cancer on our Oncology (Cancer) website.

Make an appointment at Pantai Hospitals

Take our Cancer Risk Quiz and find out what you can do to reduce your risk. If you would like to be screened for cancer, get in touch with us to find out more about our Oncology Services at your nearest Pantai Hospital.

A dedicated multidisciplinary team of specialists and oncologists at Pantai Hospitals is available for consultation to provide the best care and assistance to patients through screening, diagnosis, and treatment.

Pantai Hospitals have been accredited by the Malaysian Society for Quality in Health (MSQH) for its commitment to patient safety and service quality.