The earliest symptoms of cancer. The first signs of cancer

According to medical statistics, more and more people with cancerous tumors arise every year. Despite the fact that cancer is curable, the mortality rate from it is high. The patient does not feel a cancerous tumor for a long time, and as soon as the symptoms appear, it may already be too late.

The first signs of cancer are invisible, hence the high mortality rate. Everyone should know what are the symptoms of cancer, diagnosis, treatment of cancer and most importantly - what is cancer?

If you do not know what cancer is, then it is logical if you have a question about what it is. You should know that this is a neoplasm in the body (tumor) of a malignant nature, the formation of which can occur in any organ, and the causes of cancer can be any.

Increasing over time, a malignant tumor compresses blood vessels, organs and nerve endings located nearby. A cancerous tumor has a destructive effect on organs and disrupts metabolism.

Can we cure cancer? Cancer is curable initial stages, when external signs hardly perceptible, and the treatment process depends individually on the characteristics of the organism. There are different types of cancer, but running form Cancer is impossible to get rid of, which leads to death.

Causes of Cancer Development

Why does cancer occur? The causes of cancer are difficult to pinpoint. There are a number of internal and external factors contributing to the development of cancer. Doctors agree that the following main causes of cancer can be identified:

smoking and overuse alcohol.
Unhealthy diet.
Infections of a different nature.
Irradiation with ultraviolet.
Unfavorable ecological situation.
Heredity.
Work in the workplace with hazardous substances.

The causes of cancer trigger pathological changes in the structure of human DNA cells, which is why a malignant tumor is formed. You should be aware of which cancers have symptoms and how quickly the cancer develops.

Stages of development of oncology

There are four stages of cancer depending on the symptoms of cancer. And on each of them, the treatment of cancer is peculiar, and the main symptoms of cancer manifest themselves in different ways.

Cancer is not palpable in most cases at this stage. The first stage is characterized by the beginning of the formation of atypical cells, which begin to develop chaotically. A cure for cancer at this stage is still quite possible.

The second stage is characterized by the development of an existing tumor. Cancer is curable even at this stage, so if a tumor is found in time, it is still possible to get rid of it.

In stage III cancer, metastases occur throughout the body, and the general signs of cancer are more pronounced. It is far from always learned to be cured at this stage, but it is still possible to cure cancer.

In the fourth stage, you will not meet a person who has conquered this whole disease process, since this is the stage of the disease that is incurable. Everything that is written on the Internet about a miraculous method that cures cancer of the last degree, or about a healer who helped to recover from it, is a hoax. clean water which should not be trusted. Symptoms of the last stage of cancer are most pronounced, while cancer cells spread throughout the body, entering different organs, forming malignant neoplasms.

Unfortunately, early symptoms cancers, in which cancer is treated, almost do not manifest themselves. The person does not feel they need medical care, and if the first symptoms are not eliminated, then the disease flows into next stage development, which is much more difficult.
To identify the symptoms of cancer in the early stages, the following factors allow:

Increased body temperature for no reason.
Discomfort in any part of the body.
Strong causeless fatigue.
This is expressed externally. The nails, hair and skin of a person who has cancer deteriorate.

Cancer diagnosis

As soon as you feel the manifestation of cancer, then immediately consult a doctor. He will tell you all about possible cancer and prescribe cancer treatment. Diagnostics has many methods and means to establish more accurate diagnosis, allows you to determine the causes of cancer and treatment.

Diagnosis occurs at the second stage of cancer. It is clear that cancer can be cured. The presence of a malignant tumor in the body is determined, the diagnosis is carried out more accurately, determining the degree of spread and types of cancer.

But first, the doctor collects an anamesis of diseases, the patient's complaints are clarified, and the causes of cancer are considered. Next, the doctor conducts the process of palpation of the probable area of the location of the cancerous tumor, thereby producing initial inspection sick. Important results are given by tests of urine, feces, blood and other tests. To determine the nature of the tumor, a histological analysis of samples of the material obtained is mandatory, and a biochemical blood test will show whether inflammation processes are present in the body.

With disappointing results of the analysis, further examination of the patient takes place. With help medical devices use the following methods for diagnosing a malignant tumor:

Radiography.
Ultrasound procedure.
radioisotope scanning.
CT scan.
Magnetic resonance imaging.

Cancer treatment is assigned to each individual after precise analyzes, depending on the characteristics of the organism.

General symptoms

For all their diversity, cancerous tumors have similar signs, which are especially clearly observed in the last stages.

Signs include:

general malaise;
noticeable weight loss when eating;
pain syndrome;
heat;
changes in skin composition;
bleeding, swelling;
cough, hoarseness;
manifestation of neoplasms;
indigestion.

Weakness and fatigue.
Fatigue and malaise are the first signs of cancer. As the tumor grows, the symptoms increase, and further causes of cancer development lie in the penetration into the blood vessels of a malignant tumor and intoxication of the body with its metabolic products.
Weight loss.
Most often, for such a pathology, a decrease in the weight of the patient is characteristic, and in a certain period. The tumor causes the body to produce substances that disrupt processes. And this happens within a few months. In addition, the tumor also consumes a lot nutrients which is why it leads to loss of appetite and weight loss.
Pain.
At first, the pains do not appear strongly, leaving only a feeling of discomfort in a certain area. Tumors develop mostly painlessly, and as they develop, they leave sensations that can hardly be called pain. But even if strong pain manifests itself at the initial stage, this is typical for the presence of several malignant tumors.
Temperature.
An elevated temperature is characteristic of an organism in which a cancerous tumor is present. At some stage of the disease, almost all patients develop a fever.
Skin changes.
Externally noticeable changes in the epidermis occur due to violations of the metabolic process. Possible hyperpigmentation of the skin (darkening), jaundice (yellowing), or redness. In this case, itching is observed, and abundant hair growth is also likely. The tumor appearance of the skin also indicates the possible presence of cancer.
Bleeding.
The presence of bleeding for no reason is a signal that it is time to visit a doctor. Bloody discharge from the rectum can indicate not only the presence of hemorrhoids, but also be a symptom of cancer.

The presence of blood in the urine may indicate a possible bladder cancer, but do not immediately panic - an infection can also be the cause.

And in women, bleeding between periods may indicate a malignant tumor in the cervix or uterus. Blood discharge when coughing occur with lung cancer, and in vomiting - with stomach cancer.

Cough and shortness of breath.

Smoking is often the cause of lung cancer. Have you seen the warning on a pack of cigarettes? Persistent cough, hoarseness and shortness of breath for two weeks - alarm bell that it's time to go to the doctor's office, and even more so with blood in the sputum.

Yes, coughing and hoarseness are often provoked by other diseases. For example, laryngitis or even a common cold, inflammation and infection. But with such a favorable set of circumstances, you should not self-medicate.

Neoplasms.

Have you noticed a lump, an incomprehensible seal or a dimple, do not know why it arose? But it is in the formation of a tumor that cancer manifests itself. Melanoma is the cause of skin cancer. It manifests itself, as a rule, together with skin changes - in the form of a large mole, even inside the mole.

If you find marks or tumors on the body that do not disappear, you should consult a doctor. Can cancer be cured? It depends on the speed of response to cancer symptoms.

Indigestion.

The work of the gastrointestinal tract is similar to the work of a clock - a complex mechanism that has a well-established process with its own characteristics. However, disturbances in work, pain in the abdomen and rectum, changes in frequency (diarrhea and constipation), or the presence of blood in the secretions can be signs of cancer.
The reasons are: excitement, a change in diet, the effect of drugs. When the situation does not improve, there is no change - contact a doctor who will explain in detail how to defeat cancer, establish the causes of cancer, prescribe cancer treatment.

The place where the cancer began to form and the causes of its occurrence determine the types of cancer. The most common types are:

Lungs' cancer.
Liver cancer.
Stomach cancer.
Ovarian cancer (a type peculiar to women).
Rectal cancer.
Skin cancer.

What is cancer and its main symptoms, we have already found out, but what specific features and he has symptoms, and why - we will consider further.

The following symptoms are common but should not be underestimated:

Changing the size and color of moles and warts.
Ulcers in the mouth and on the tongue.
Knots and thickenings in the testicles, nipples, mammary glands or other places.
Unusual discharge of pus and blood.
Severe migraine.
The body's resistance to infection.
There is an unpleasant odor from the mouth.
Stomach problems and feeling of pain in the abdomen.
Cough and sore throat.

Cancer treatment

Don't worry if you don't know how to cure cancer. Even better, if you don’t need information on how to cure cancer at all. However, this does not mean that it is not worth knowing which cancer has a treatment.

At the initial stages, the cancerous tumor is removed, followed by periodic checks in the clinic. This is where localization comes into play. Treatment for stage 3 cancer surgically, chemotherapy, hormonal therapy, radiation and biological therapy. At the fourth stage, it is unfortunately impossible to cure cancer. Therefore, doctors do everything to prolong the life of the patient, eliminating discomfort from it.

Remember! For prevention, do examinations in the clinic, and if you suspect a malignant tumor, consult a doctor. He will make a diagnosis, tell you whether the cancer can be treated and select an individual treatment.

As a rule, when we get sick, we rush to find “bad” symptoms in our body, think about the worst.

Frequent headache, dizziness is associated with brain damage by any neoplasm. Prolonged nausea and pain in the abdomen after eating - with stomach cancer and so on. Let's see if this is true, shall we? How common are cancers and at what age? How to learn to recognize or at least suspect cancer in yourself, and when can you calm down and continue treatment?

Epidemiology of cancer

According to statistics, the most prone to cancer lungs. Every year, the incidence of lung cancer is growing at an incredible rate. Most likely, this is due to smoking, smoke in the surrounding air, air pollution with exhaust gases and combustion products, occupational hazards (inhalation of oil vapors, concrete and chemical dust).

Ranked second in cancer incidence intestines. The incidence of bowel neoplasms is also increasing. Followed by milk glands and Cervix. To date, oncological diseases have become “younger”. If you meet cancer earlier in young age It was considered casuistry, but now it is a fairly common phenomenon.

I will not dwell on the causes of oncological lesions, on the mechanisms of transformation of healthy cells into cancer cells. All this can be read in the relevant sections. In more detail, I would like to consider the very first symptoms of cancer.

When should you be worried?

So there are several non-specific symptoms cancerous lesion organs and tissues.

The first and most common is gradual or progressive weight loss. The latter can be both in the background good appetite as well as anorexia. Weight loss can be so significant that even close relatives will notice it. Habitual clothes will become large, flabby skin will appear in place of the former fat folds, and the tummy will disappear. Such changes cannot be ignored. Weight loss reaches 40 kilograms in a few months. All this is explained by the intensive breakdown of proteins and the disruption of the synthesis process in the body under the influence of cancer cell toxins.

Second symptom, suspicious of a neoplasm, - anemia. The mechanism of its development is the same as with weight loss. Due to the predominance of catabolism processes, the work of many organs and systems is disrupted, including bone marrow, which cannot enough produce red blood cells (erythrocytes). The level of hemoglobin and erythrocytes gradually falls, which is manifested by the corresponding symptoms. The patient complains of loss of strength, weakness, dizziness, constant drowsiness. There is shortness of breath when walking for long distances, palpitations, decreases blood pressure. There is a pallor of the skin, and with a severe degree of anemia, their cyanotic (bluish) hue also occurs. On the part of the appendages of the skin - hair loss, brittleness and delamination of nails, dry skin.

Third symptom consists of several subsymptoms that have general mechanism origin. It can be attributed prolonged subfebrile condition(increase in body temperature to small numbers), leukocytosis(increased white blood cell count) and ESR acceleration. All symptoms are due to the influence of decay products cancer cells to the central parts of the nervous system.

Fourth symptom characterized loss of appetite, the appearance of aversion to any type of food (for example, meat with stomach cancer).

Very often when malignant neoplasms observed pain syndrome, which tends to increase, is not stopped or stopped for a while by painkillers. Pain is already considered a specific manifestation of the disease. It occurs, as a rule, in the affected organ, but it can also be distant, radiating. By its nature, the pain is aching, sharp, burning, tearing, boring, dull.

Also, specific symptoms of a cancerous lesion include bleeding, swallowing disorders, dyspeptic disorders (nausea, vomiting, heartburn, belching, diarrhea or constipation, bloating), various skin lesions(with localization of cancer on the skin) and others. It is worth paying attention to the effect of the treatment of a painful condition. If the drugs do not help, the symptoms of the disease continue to grow, you should immediately consult a doctor!

Cancer diagnosis

At the first suspicious symptoms, the doctor should prescribe a mandatory minimum list of examinations: general analysis blood and urine, biochemical analysis of blood, radiography chest, gynecologist consultation, ECG. Additional examinations (ultrasound, MRI, fibrogastroscopy) are prescribed for appropriate indications. Already on the basis of the primary results of the analyzes, one can indirectly judge oncology.

In conclusion, I would like to say that there are no rules in oncology. Cancer doesn't play by the rules. A newly appeared and small tumor can manifest itself with many symptoms and not respond to any therapy. Large neoplasms with a long existence, on the contrary, may not give any symptoms. Everything is individual and depends not only on the location and histo-morphological characteristics of the tumor, but also on the age of the patient, the presence of concomitant diseases and much more. Also, all of the above symptoms are not a mandatory sign of cancer and can occur with other harmless diseases. These symptoms should be considered in conjunction with examinations. Great importance has a history and examination of the patient. Only on the basis of all the data (complaints, tests, examination, questioning) can one assume or accurately establish the diagnosis of a malignant tumor. Unfortunately, most neoplasms appear only with a long existence.

Cancers of the genital organs in women can be divided into two types: benign and malignant.

Considering the first signs of cancer, these include neoplasms that do not spread tumor cells throughout the body, but which need to be paid attention to prevent their degeneration.

benign tumors

Benign tumors grow in width, but are unable to spread to other organs. But they are also oncological neoplasms, and if they are not treated on time, complications are likely. There are such types of these neoplasms:

fibroma;
myoma;
fibromyoma;
cystoma;
polyp.

Fibroma is characterized by manifestation on parts such as the ovaries, labia or inside the cervix. Formed from fibrous connective tissue. Cancer manifests itself in a feminine way with signs of pelvic pain and difficulty in defecation.

Myoma is characteristic heavy bleeding during menstruation and pain in the lower abdomen. With complications, the pain becomes stronger, chills and fever appear. It is the formation of nodules and seals.

Fibromyoma is formed in the uterus, and can reach a significant size. In the process of tumor development, pressure in the pelvis occurs, and the amount of discharge during menstruation increases.

Cystoma. Formed from a cyst. The first signs are violations in the menstrual cycle, discomfort and bloating. Sometimes the appearance of pain, spasms and discomfort during intimacy is characteristic.

Polyps are soft red-pink growths. Arranged in clusters. With them, after intercourse, bleeding appears and discharge increases during menstruation.

General symptoms

Often, cancer of the female genital organs does not have specific symptoms, and is similar to other diseases or disorders and abnormalities. There are a number of general signs that you should pay attention to and if you have symptoms, you should immediately consult a doctor in order to prevent the development and exacerbation of oncology in advance:

Bloating.

This symptom is very common in ovarian cancer and is often neglected. This is one of the main symptoms, so if you can't button up your skirt or pants, pay attention to it.

Stomach ache.

Pressure and constants aching pain in the area below the navel, not associated with menstruation often indicate the development of cancer in the female genital organs.

Pain in the lower back.

You can even get used to monotonous pains of a constant nature, and not pay attention to them, but this is a symptom of oncology.

Elevated temperature.

If you have a high temperature all day for a long period, you should visit a doctor. This is danger sign not only ovarian cancer, but also disorders in the body or diseases.

Profuse bleeding.

Unnatural bleeding from the genitals is a common sign of the development of oncology. Excessive bleeding during menstruation, unnatural in the stages between them and during sexual contact are symptoms of cancer in women.

Disorders of the stomach.

Diarrhea, constipation, flatulence and irregular feces, sometimes with the presence of blood, are a reason to see a doctor. These are signs not only of cancer of the genital organs, but such manifestations indicate a possible cancer of the rectum.

Genital changes.

Uncharacteristic changes in the vulva or vagina (skin color, discharge, blisters, wounds) can signal the development of cancer, so a visit to the doctor is required. Regular examination by a gynecologist is the basis for the prevention of cancer.

weight loss

Losing more than five kilograms a month without exertion and effort is unnatural. Weight fluctuations are possible, but rapid weight loss is not a positive fact.

Fatigue

Chronic lethargy is one of the main signs of cancer in any part of the body. Exhaustion and fatigue even from small loads are characteristic of last stages, but sometimes appear at the initial stage.

Breast changes

Detected seals, wounds, swelling or redness on the mammary glands during its examination is a bad sign, so you should immediately consult a doctor.

Before talking about cancer, you should know that it has four stages of development, and in the first stage, the symptoms are almost imperceptible.

Uterine cancer and its causes

Causes of cancer in women may be promiscuity, early start sexual life, viral diseases and injuries of the cervix. Often, cancer develops due to herpes (papillomas), so it is recommended to take tests in order to detect pathology in time.

In the second and third stages of uterine cancer, specific signs are bloody discharge, the presence of blood in the urine, pain in the back and legs. It should be added that the first stage often has no symptoms, and it is possible to diagnose the pathology when examined by a gynecologist.

With cancer of the body of the uterus, polyposis growths are formed. A malignant tumor, germinating, affects the appendages and the abdominal cavity, therefore, an unpleasantly smelling discharge is formed, consisting of a mixture of pus with blood.

ovarian cancer

Ovarian cancer is slightly less common than uterine cancer, but it is common, and especially in older women who have not known the joys of motherhood. Sometimes this is influenced by genetic inheritance.

Characteristic signs for this pathology are nausea, vomiting, bloating and constipation. The early stages are asymptomatic, which is dangerous, and the tumor itself changes the functioning of the intestine, causing the accumulation of fluid.

Vaginal cancer

Purulent-bloody leucorrhoea can be distinguished as the first sign. At the same time, dense ulcers form on the walls of the vagina, which subsequently cause pain and lead to compression. internal cavity. In this case, intoxication of the body occurs, and difficulties arise when urinating. It is observed more often in women during menopause and menopause.

Cancer of the labia

This species develops during menopause, is an ulcerative nodules with dense edges. Growing, the tumor penetrates deep into, affecting the lymph nodes. Initial signs- burning, itching and pain. With exacerbation, discharge of purulent-bloody content occurs.

Treatment Methods

Malignant tumors of the female genital organs are removed combined methods treatment or certain types of procedures.

This is determined by the doctor and depends on the location of the neoplasm, its type and stage.

Treatment includes methods surgical intervention, radiation therapy, and in case of complications - the use of systemic drugs (chemotherapy) and hormone therapy. A special method is symptomatic treatment used in the last stage.

Developing cancer gives symptoms and signs far from immediately, masquerading as various pathologies. The emerging signs of cancer and the first symptoms need to be well known, since only in the initial stages this disease is amenable to successful treatment. This article describes the main symptoms and signs of cancer, among which there are atypical manifestations that are mistakenly attributed even to colds.

Cancer is a group of diseases that can be accompanied by any signs and symptoms. Signs and symptoms depend on the size of the tumor, the location of the cancer, and how involved surrounding organs or structures are. If the cancer has spread (metastasized), symptoms may occur in various parts organism. As the tumor grows, it begins to compress nearby organs, blood vessels, and nerves. This pressure causes some of the signs and symptoms of cancer. If the tumor is located in a particularly important area, for example, in some parts of the brain, then even a small cancer can give early symptoms.

What are the first common symptoms of cancer and signs of oncology

Cancer general symptoms and signs can show quite specific. The first symptoms of cancer may be muscle pain, weakness, decreased performance. However, sometimes the tumor occurs in places where symptoms may not appear until it reaches large sizes(last stages). difficult to determine by external examination. Some tumors in this location do not give symptoms until they involve the nerves, leading to back pain. Other tumors grow near the bile duct, causing discoloration of the skin ( obstructive jaundice). Unfortunately, when with cancer prostate signs and symptoms appear, it already happens with metastases. You need to know which symptoms of oncology are potentially dangerous and require immediate medical attention. Look at the signs and symptoms of cancer in the photo, which shows the characteristic pathological changes:

Cancer can also lead to common symptoms such as fever, fatigue, and weight loss. This can be caused by tumor cells that secrete substances that change the metabolic processes in the body. Such symptoms may also occur as a result of the impact of the tumor on immune system.

Symptoms of early oncology in cancer

Treatment is more effective the earlier the tumor is detected. Early detection tumors usually means that treatment will be started if the cancer is small and has not yet spread to other parts of the body. This usually means a greater chance of a cure.

Often the symptoms of early oncology are ignored by a person due to the fact that a person is scared possible consequences and refuses to see a doctor or considers the symptom that has appeared to be insignificant. General symptoms of cancer such as fatigue are often not associated with cancer and therefore often go unnoticed, especially when there is clear reason or when they are temporary.

Similarly, the patient may think that more specific symptom, as tumor formation in the breast, is a simple cyst that will go away on its own. However, such symptoms of cancer and oncology cannot be ignored, especially if they exist for a long period of time, for example, a week, or there is a negative trend.

In some cases, cancer may be detected before symptoms appear. This can be done with a special examination of people who do not have any symptoms of cancer. However, this does not mean that you should hide your symptoms from your doctor. The correct diagnosis can be given by examination and tests.

It is important to be aware of some common (non-specific) signs and symptoms of cancer. These include unexplained weight loss, fever, fatigue, pain, and skin changes. Of course, it must be remembered that the presence of some of them does not necessarily mean the presence of a tumor. There are many other conditions that may also have similar signs and symptoms.

Unexplained weight loss. Most people with cancer experience weight loss at some point in their illness. Unexplained weight loss of 4-5 kg can be the first sign of cancer, especially cancer of the pancreas, stomach, esophagus or lung.

An increase in temperature (fever). An increase in temperature is often observed in cancer and most often in a widespread process. Almost all cancer patients develop a fever at some point during their illness, especially if the treatment affects the immune system and increases susceptibility to infections. Rarely, a rise in temperature can be early sign cancer.

Fatigue. Fatigue may be important symptom as the disease progresses. However, fatigue and weakness can occur early, especially if the cancer causes chronic blood loss, which occurs in or in the stomach.

Pain. Pain can be an early sign of several tumors, such as those of the bones or testis. Most often, however, pain is a symptom of a common process.

Skin changes. In addition to skin tumors, some types of cancer internal organs may cause visible skin signs such as darkening of the skin (hyperpigmentation), yellowing (jaundice), redness (erythema), itching, or excessive hair growth. The correct diagnosis can be given by examination and tests.

Specific signs and symptoms of cancer. In addition to the above general symptoms, it is important to be aware of other general symptoms that may occur with cancer. Again, it must be pointed out that these signs and symptoms do not necessarily speak in favor of cancer, as they occur in other diseases. However, you must tell your doctor about the signs and symptoms that appear in order to make a decision about the examination.

Violation of the stool or bladder function. Chronic constipation, diarrhea, or a change in the amount of stool may indicate the presence of colon cancer. Pain when urinating, blood in the urine, or a change in bladder function (more or less frequent urination) may be associated with bladder or prostate cancer. These changes should be reported to the doctor immediately. The correct diagnosis can be given by examination and tests.

Non-healing wound or ulcer. Malignant skin tumors may bleed and resemble a wound or ulcer. A long-standing mouth ulcer can be oral cancer, especially in those who smoke, chew tobacco, or drink alcohol frequently. Ulcers on the penis or in the vagina can be both signs of infection and early cancer and therefore must be examined.

Unusual bleeding or discharge. Unusual bleeding may occur with early or advanced cancer. Blood in the sputum may be a sign lung cancer. Blood in the stool (or the presence of dark or black stools) can be a sign of colon or rectal cancer. Cancer of the cervix or the uterus itself can lead to bleeding from the vagina. in the urine - a sign of a possible or kidney. The discharge of blood from the nipple may be a sign.

Hardening or swelling in the breast or other parts of the body. Many tumors can be felt through the skin, especially in the breast, testicles, lymph nodes, and soft tissues body. A lump or lump may be the first sign of early or advanced cancer. Any such finding should be reported to the doctor, especially if you have just discovered it or the tumor (seal) has begun to increase in size.

Indigestion or difficulty swallowing. Although these symptoms may occur with different states, they at the same time may indicate the presence of cancer of the esophagus, stomach or pharynx.

Change in a wart or mole. Any changes in color, shape, borders or size of these formations should be reported to the doctor immediately. The skin lesion may be melanoma, which, if diagnosed early, responds well to treatment.

Irritant cough or hoarseness. Long persistent cough may be a sign of lung cancer. hoarse voice - possible sign throat cancer or thyroid gland. The correct diagnosis can be given by examination and tests.

Symptoms vary depending on the location of the tumor. Pain usually occurs only on late stages. In the early stages, the tumor often does not cause any discomfort.

Modern cancer diagnostics at early stages

Modern cancer diagnostics makes it possible to detect an oncological process in 100% of cases. Cancer is a long multi-stage process. It is known that before reaching lung tumor, stomach or mammary gland size 1-1.5 cm in diameter takes 5-10 years. Thus, most tumors are laid in 25-40 years. To protect the body, we must eat right and do prevention.

It is difficult to predict the intensity and nature of tumor growth, this process depends on many factors: from the body of the diseased, tissue resistance, features of this tumor. Depending on these and many other factors, the tumor can double in size within a few weeks. Sometimes it takes many months and years. It is difficult to predict the rate of tumor growth. Known factors that accelerate it: excessive sun exposure thermal treatments, traumatization, physiotherapeutic procedures (quartz, UHF, etc.), depression of the patient, fear. The later treatment is started, the more difficult the cure. At stage I, a complete cure can be achieved. With stage IV cancer, the cure rate is almost zero.

A timely visit to a doctor, a thorough history taking, and a careful examination of the patient often contribute to the diagnosis of cancer in the early stages that can be treated. Special attention should be given to the identification of precancerous diseases (xeroderma pigmentosa, erythroplasia of Queyra, Dubrey's melanosis, congenital multiple polyposis of the large intestine), the presence of which involves both treatment and constant monitoring of the patient's health. All available methods are used to detect a tumor. diagnostic methods, which early cancer detection has, for example:

Physical examination of the patient.
X-ray, CT scan, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
General, biochemical blood tests, detection of tumor markers in the blood.
Puncture, biopsy with morphological examination.
Endoscopy (EGDS, cystoscopy, bronchoscopy, etc.).
For the final diagnosis of malignant tumors, a biopsy is used - taking a tissue sample for analysis

Types and methods of early cancer detection

An important factor determining the success of treatment is early diagnosis. And here, dear readers, you can’t rely on chance, you yourself must take care of your health, the main thing is not to be afraid to go to the doctor.

Breast cancer is diagnosed by weekly self-examination and self-palpation of the breast, as well as mammography (best - a combination of these two methods). According to recent data, the method of breast self-examination is not effective diagnostics, since it allows you to notice formations of only 0.5 mm, which corresponds to II-III stages cancer, and in these cases, therapy will be ineffective. Cancer diagnostic methods make it possible to detect tumors much earlier.

Testicular cancer can be diagnosed at an early stage by testicular self-examination, which is why it is recommended for men with a family history of cancer. The American Urological Association recommends monthly self-exams for all young men.

Diagnosed with indirect laryngoscopy (examination with a special laryngeal mirror when visiting an otolaryngologist) followed by a biopsy of suspicious areas of the mucous membrane. More accurate methods early diagnosis cancers are fibrolaryngoscopy (examination with a flexible endoscope) and direct microlaryngoscopy (examination of the larynx with a microscope under anesthesia). The main risk factor for laryngeal cancer is long-term smoking (more than 1 pack per day for 10-20 years). The vast majority of patients with laryngeal cancer are men (95%). Cancer vocal cords has a more favorable prognosis than cancer of the vestibular larynx, since the former is manifested by hoarseness even with a small tumor size and can be diagnosed at an early stage. The first symptoms of vestibular cancer of the larynx (which is located above the vocal cords) usually occur in the later stages. tumor growth and are manifested by difficulty breathing (mainly on inspiration), choking, discomfort when swallowing, coughing, hemoptysis. It is necessary to remember about common manifestations malignant tumors. The most important of these is unmotivated weight loss in a short period of time (more than 10 kg in 3-6 months).

Colon cancer, cervical cancer, and cancer of the fundus and body of the uterus are diagnosed with endoscopes. Cancer diagnostics such as endoscopic examinations intestines both reduce the incidence of cancer (polyps are removed before malignant degeneration), and improve the prognosis. However, not all intestines can be checked with an endoscope.

Early diagnosis of prostate cancer is carried out by palpation of the prostate through the rectum, as well as ultrasound prostate and screening for cancer markers in the blood. However, this technique for early detection of prostate cancer has not caught on because it often detects small, malignant tumors that are never life-threatening. However, finding them leads to treatment, usually removal of the prostate. Removing the prostate can lead to impotence and urinary incontinence.

For some types of cancer (particularly breast cancer and colon cancer), there is a genetic test that allows you to identify some types of predisposition to them.

Background and precancerous diseases and conditions

Background and precancerous diseases require careful diagnosis and timely treatment. Today it is known which of them can develop into cancer:

develops into stomach cancer;
intestinal polyposis can degenerate into intestinal cancer;
bone injuries affect the development of bone cancer, etc.

Proven to destroy healthy cells and endless chronic inflammation, for example, the bladder; various (cystoma); tumors in the uterus (benign fibroids) - today all this is taken into account in the diagnosis. And if at the initial stage during the medical examination patients are detected with a stomach ulcer, intestinal polyposis, formations in the kidneys, it is clear that these patients have a significantly higher risk of developing cancer than those who do not have chronic diseases. Such patients should be selected into risk groups and monitored and examined more often.

Background precancerous conditions are mainly diseases of the elderly, the number of which is increasing, because life expectancy is also growing. This is primarily due to the violation immune status and fat metabolism, various influences of the aging process of the body. A cell mutation may occur against the background of its aging. Each person has his own aging of cells, his own localization of tumors, and this is the big problem, if we talk about the diagnosis and prevention of cancer.

The article has been read 26,343 times.

AT overall structure Oncology ranks second. Cancer tumors can affect any tissue of the human body. The success of cancer treatment is largely determined by the stage at which the diagnosis was made. Therefore, you should be aware of the signs of cancer, which will help to identify the disease at the earliest manifestations.

We recommend reading:

33 symptoms that will help to suspect oncology

- is one of the signs or pancreas. Long time pain can be minor, a person and doctors most often associate it with,. However, it is better to undergo an additional examination - FGDS or, which will help clarify the diagnosis.
Dramatic weight loss- observed in tumors of almost any localization, but can be considered the leading sign of intestinal oncology. Not to be confused with weight loss due to diet or exercise - in oncology, body weight is reduced even if the patient does not make any effort to do so.
Change in skin color, most often jaundice, characteristic of tumors of the pancreas and liver. It occurs due to difficulties in the outflow of bile, an increase in the concentration of bile pigments in the blood, often accompanied by severe itching. In addition to the skin, the sclera and tongue acquire an icteric color.
Cough and difficulty breathing leading signs of lung cancer. At an early stage of cancer, a dry, unobtrusive cough is noted, and as the disease progresses, it becomes hacking, shortness of breath joins.
Difficulty swallowing- The sensation of a foreign body that prevents the swallowing of food and water is a typical sign of cancer of the pharynx or esophagus. As the tumor grows, the patient may stop swallowing altogether.
Heartburn- due to hit gastric juice from the stomach into the esophagus (gastroesophageal reflux). It is characteristic not only for gastritis, but also for cancer of the stomach and duodenum.
Swelling of the face (or upper half of the body). Typical for the central, when a growing tumor compresses the blood and lymphatic vessels thereby causing swelling.
- most tumors cause a reaction of regional lymph nodes. At later stages, metastases enter these nodes, which also contributes to an increase in their size.
Increased bleeding Bruising and bruising for no good reason can be a sign of blood cancer. With tumors of the liver, the blood coagulates worse.
Fatigue – chronic intoxication conditions the feeling general malaise pronounced weakness. These symptoms are especially pronounced when the internal organs are damaged.
The appearance of blood in the stool and bleeding from the anus after the act of defecation- serious symptoms. There are also benign diseases similar symptoms, but they can only be distinguished from cancer with the help of rectoscopy or colonoscopy.
Digestive disorders- constipation and diarrhea, mostly chronic, often appear with bowel cancer.
Difficulties with urination- delay, increase indicate problems with the prostate and bladder.
- characteristic of cystitis, or sexually transmitted diseases. With tumors of the prostate in men, this symptom is also noted at the base of the penis.
Blood in urine or semen-may appear in organ cancer urinary system: kidneys, bladder, prostate. Women have blood in their urine or bloody issues from the genital tract, not associated with menstruation, are signs of oncology of the female genital organs.
Decreased libido: a sign of prostate cancer in men or ovarian and uterine cancer in women.
Swelling of the scrotum and penis May indicate testicular or penile cancer.
Back pain syndrome. Of course, the main cause of back pain is osteochondrosis or inflammatory diseases of the spine. However, in some cases, pain in the back, poorly relieved by pills or simple painkillers, may be a sign of a metastatic lesion of the vertebrae.
Headache. Sometimes it is the only sign of a brain tumor, especially if the pain is one-sided and difficult to treat.
Discharge from the nipples- can appear with breast cancer, which occurs not only in women, but also in men. Simultaneously with the discharge of the patient, soreness of the chest may disturb.
Weird moles and dark spots irregular shape is a form of melanoma or basal cell skin cancer.
Fever- prolonged, sluggish hyperthermia (fever) without other signs of infection is observed in 30% of patients with oncology.
Seals in the chest in women are signs of breast cancer. It is especially necessary to be wary of the combination of seals with discharge from the nipples. In this case, you need to urgently contact a mammologist or a surgeon.
Pathological changes in the appendages of the skin - nails and hair: dull hair with a tendency to fall out, as well as dystrophic changes in nails (delamination, brittleness) indicate an active tumor process, at which skin, nails and hair simply do not have enough nutrients.
Dysfunctional bleeding- spotting from the vagina, not associated with menstruation, is noted in uterine cancer, and in ovarian cancer.
fainting- one of the signs of a brain tumor. With even greater certainty about a brain tumor, a combination of fainting with convulsions allows us to speak.
Swelling in the limbs- a bump on the lower leg, thigh or shoulder can occur with malignant bone tumors (osteosarcomas). Very often, pathological fractures are also noted - even a slight blow to the bone can lead to its fracture.
Memory disorders. In young people, a decrease in intelligence, forgetfulness and absent-mindedness can be observed with brain tumors.
Decreased appetite- observed in most cancers. By the way, with a lack of appetite is also associated pathological loss weight in cancer patients.
sweating- a sharp change in the usual moisture content of the skin is observed in a number of neuroendocrine tumors.
tides- a feeling of heat in the face or throughout the body can be not only in women during menopause, but also in some tumors of the endocrine system.
mood swings- a sharp change in the emotional background is typical for head tumors and for some hormone-producing tumors in women.
Sharp decrease in vision, loss of fields - can occur with tumors optic nerve and some structures of the central nervous system.

Important: if you experience any of the above symptoms, you should consult a doctor. It is possible that there is absolutely nothing to fear, and these symptoms are just manifestations of another more harmless disease. But neglecting this advice is often too costly. Malignant processes, which were not paid attention in time, end in death! For more information on early cancer symptoms, watch this video overview:

Signs of oncology are very fond of disguising themselves as symptoms of other diseases, so a diagnosis of cancer can only be excluded after a thorough examination. It is not for nothing that foreign experts recommend that people over the age of 30 undergo an annual preventive examination.

Gudkov Roman, resuscitator

Discussion (44 )

Hello, woman, 31 years old, has children, stage 2 varicose veins. Worried about constant fatigue, pain in the legs (due to varicose veins), joints, back, neck, head. Lack of mood. Sedentary job, no sports bad habits no. Who to contact and what could be wrong?

Hello! Please tell me how the best way cancer can be detected. What can I pass or go through something to see the stomach is there or not. My father had kidney cancer and had it removed. Now I have a panic fear that cancer may also develop somewhere. I have chondrosis and neuralgia happens. And for often not pleasant sensations in the stomach, as if it were hot and the back was on fire. On the right, in the area, there is almost no pleasant feeling, as if something is pulling. Recently had an ultrasound abdominal cavity Together with the kidneys, everything was fine. I had a head MRI a year ago and a neck MRI half a year ago. Everything is fine. Now I would like to see inside the abdomen and chest or what tests to pass so that I don’t get extra sores in my head. Please write what to do and where to start. Thanks in advance.
Hello! Age 28, never had a baby I have none visible to the eye there are no neoplasms, of the symptoms that disturb me, there are constant ailments, it is not clear what caused, increased fatigue, low performance, lethargy, prolonged deep dream. Periodically there are pains in the back, in the hands, lying in one position for about 5 minutes, the hands go numb, this was not the case before, she turned to an orthopedist, the diagnosis was scoliosis and osteochondrosis. I also wanted to note that the resulting wounds, cuts began to heal much more slowly, I'm not sure if this is normal. Grandmother and mother have cancer in the family (lung cancer, breast cancer). Could you tell me what examination is needed to rule out this disease?!
Hello. After pregnancy (1.5 years have already passed), the nails became very brittle, recent times fatigue often manifests itself, I don’t feel any pain, my memory has deteriorated a lot - I can talk, and then it just flies out of my head what the conversation was about, it’s hard to remember what happened in previous days, there is a decrease in vision for several minutes, after a computer, a strong decrease in libido. Previously, they put the VSD (in cervical region, the spine is slightly turned because of this, blood is poorly supplied to upper part heads. Half a year ago, they found a big erosion. Immunity has become weak, although I take vitamins, it can be difficult to breathe. What is the reason? To whom to go? I'm 20.
Good day. I suffer from intercostal neuralgia, we cannot find its main cause. (injuries and serious illnesses was not, on the x-ray no major changes, or inflammation, blood tests are within the normal range, there is no tomography in the city) The treatment gives relief for a while, but the pains return again and again, and the attacks are ever shorter. Does it make sense to take on tumor markers? Or what specialist’s advice should I get (do synningia, tests?) (by the way, the next of kin has cancer (aunt), diabetes(mother), vascular disease (grandmother died of a stroke))
Good afternoon. The child had all the lymph nodes inflamed + a pimple appeared on his head, soon he turned into a sore that began to rot. A dermatologist cannot make a diagnosis within half a year. From the head I pull out the rods of pus. What could it be?
Good afternoon. My mother had sinusitis, a polyp in the nose area was removed, some foreign substance was found in the head.
Feeling very bad lately. Vomiting, dizziness, can't stand on his feet. Constant headaches. My grandmother (mother's mother) had stomach cancer. She died unfortunately. My mother and I went around all the doctors, passed the tests, but no one detected oncology. what to do how to be
Hello, I am 17 years old, a few days ago there was a seal on the neck in the form of a ball, the size of Walnut. I have a sore throat, it is difficult to swallow, I feel chills, I feel constant fatigue. Today I noticed a small brown spot on my shoulder that hurts when I press it. Prompt, please, what is it can be and what probability of what is it a melonoma. I am very afraid of oncology, heredity is normal, there are no bad habits. Thank you very much in advance.
Hello! My father has stage 4 inoperable colon cancer and is 80 years old. Skin metastatic manifestations appeared. Pale aid is being provided. Pain is relieved with morphine. But more worried skin manifestation, because it interferes with movement and causes great discomfort. Antiseptic dressings are changed. I wanted to ask you about ichthyol ointment. Can it be applied to this case. On the Internet, nothing is written about the use of ichthyolka for skin metastases. Maybe everything is ambiguous, but he has nothing to lose, maybe try? Thank you!
Good afternoon! Please tell me, otherwise the doctors say that if you are not particularly worried, it will pass by itself. The temperature has been 37-37.2 for about 3 months, I passed a general blood test (neutrophils deviation 40, lymphocytes 44, monocytes 12.6, leukocytes on the verge of 4.76), cytomegano antibodies - negative, HIV - negative, Epstein Barr - negative. In principle, I don’t feel any discomfort, it happens occasionally in the stomach. Tell me what could be, or where to take tests?
Hello, please tell me, my mother found metastases in the liver, but the focus itself was not found. She had pains in the liver area, but now she doesn’t, but appeared with right side there is also some kind of bulge under the shoulder blade, very strong, pain, like drilling. Maybe she doesn't have cancer? The symptoms all point to cancer. poor appetite, yellow skin, weight loss, vomiting.
Hello, please tell me what it could be. Hair falls out profusely for about six months, acne on the body and on the face does not go away.
Hello dear doctor. Tell me what my condition can be with: my temperature has been high for more than a year, 37.3-37.4. Several times I passed urine and blood tests, biochemistry, everything is fine. I had an MRI of the brain, no abnormalities, everything is normal, only there is a subarachnoid cyst, they said it's not scary. In the summer, amid stress, I began to have urinary retention, that is, there is urine inside, the bubble is already bursting, and I can’t get it out, as if there is a lock. It lasted a week, at that time I again passed urine and blood tests, everything was normal, they also did an ultrasound of the bladder, kidneys and everything - everything is fine, well, after a week it went away, I began to urinate normally. But in December, I suffered the strongest stress, and now since January, the 5th month begins - I can’t urinate, urine can linger for a day, I’m already suffocating, it’s full, but I can’t urinate. And for 5 months now I have been holding my breath, the air seems to be squeezing down, and only then urine is excreted a little bit. Without holding her breath, she will not come out in any way. Here's the problem. I no longer have the strength to hold my breath. And desires in general frequent, each 15 20 minutes. I did a second ultrasound of all the lower organs, everything is perfect. I had a course of treatment with a neurologist, she treated me with pills and a dropper for a month. But not the slightest change.
Tell me, please, what is the reason for this? More precisely, I understand that the nerves, but how can I start to urinate normally? What to do? What do you advise? Please help, I'm out of energy :(
Hello, for the third week, every day after lunch, the body temperature rises to 37.5-38 degrees, it all started with severe throbbing headaches in the back of the head, which lasted 2-3 days. Blood and urine tests are good. During the second week I drank cogacyl, the temperature went away, but after 3-4 days it returned again. I did an ultrasound of the abdominal cavity, the spleen is enlarged, there is a suspicion of pancreatitis, the liver is normal, the kidneys too. Blood tests for hepatitis and HIV are negative. I suspect a virus herpes simplex but there is nothing on the skin. What to do, what can be?