7 Cancer Warning Signs Among Young Adults
Cancer can affect young adults too. Learn seven warning signs that should not be ignored, including unexplained weight loss, lumps and unusual bleeding.
Cancer is pretty much less common among young adults compared to older people, but it can still occur. Some symptoms may have many causes and do not necessarily mean cancer, but persistent, unexplained or worsening changes deserve medical attention.
1. Unexplained Weight Loss
Unexplained loss of weight without changing your diet or exercise routine can have many causes. However, weight loss that continues should be discussed with a healthcare professional.
2. A New Lump or Swelling
A lump, swelling or thickening anywhere on the body should be checked, particularly if it continues to grow. Many lumps are harmless, but only a proper medical assessment can determine if it’s harmless or not.
3. Unusual Bleeding
Unexpected and unusual bleeding, such as blood in the stool or urine, coughing up blood, or unusual vaginal bleeding, can have different causes. Persistent bleeding should be evaluated rather than ignored.
4. Persistent Changes in Bowel or Bladder Habits
Ongoing changes such as blood in the stool, persistent constipation, changes in urination or difficulty passing urine can have several explanations. If the changes persist, medical evaluation is very important.
5. A Persistent Cough or Hoarseness
A cough that does not go away, persistent hoarseness and coughing up blood can sometimes indicate a serious condition. These symptoms require medical attention, particularly when they persist or worsen.
6. Persistent or Unexplained Pain
Pain that seems persistent, unusual or has no obvious explanation should not automatically be attributed to age or everyday activities. The location, severity and duration of the pain can help healthcare professionals determine whether further investigation is needed.
7. Persistent Fatigue or Night Sweats
Unexplained fatigue, recurring night sweats or other persistent and unusual changes in how you feel can occur with many conditions, including infections and other non-cancerous illnesses. When these symptoms continue without an explanation, it is worth seeking medical advice.
Having one of these symptoms does NOT mean you have cancer. Many conditions can cause the same symptoms, but persistent or unexplained changes are worth discussing with a healthcare professional rather than self-diagnosing.
