Cancer cases are increasing in India and globally, mainly due to increased diagnosis and lifestyle choices.

On National Cancer Awareness Day, Dr Vinayak Maka, Head of Medical Oncology at Ramaiah Institute of Oncosciences, stressed that recognizing symptoms early and taking timely action can make a significant difference and improve survival rates.

He encouraged people not to ignore subtle changes in their health, saying, “Early detection of cancer can make a huge difference, and it all comes down to small, normally felt changes in one’s body. “Starts with noticing small changes.”

A common symptom that may indicate an underlying problem is unexplained fatigue. “Think about a time when someone becomes so tired that they can’t get through the day – if the fatigue doesn’t go away, it’s worth getting tested,” Dr. Maka advised. Fatigue, especially when it becomes constant and affects daily activities, should be discussed with a doctor.

Unintentional weight loss can also be a warning sign. If a person begins to lose weight without making changes to diet or exercise, it is necessary to consult a doctor.

Dr. Maka also warned about other physical changes like persistent lumps or swelling. “These are signals that one’s body can send that should not be ignored,” he said.

Changes in bathroom habits are another early indicator. Persistent constipation, diarrhea, or unusual bleeding may point to issues that require medical evaluation.

Skin changes, such as new or changed moles, should also be monitored closely. “Keep an eye on moles or new skin growths, especially if they look uneven, have irregular borders, or are larger than a pencil eraser,” Dr. Maka said, highlighting that sudden changes in the skin can be a sign of skin cancer. can give.

Persistent symptoms such as difficulty swallowing, hoarse voice or persistent indigestion should also not be dismissed as minor.

“Although these symptoms may not always mean anything serious, they can sometimes be early signs of cancer,” Dr Maka said.

Regular self-checkups and counseling are important. “Early detection is the cornerstone of effective cancer care,” he concluded, urging people to seek medical advice when needed to improve treatment outcomes.