Cancer can grow in the body for a long time without showing clear signs. But sometimes, your body gives small hints that something is wrong. According to the American Cancer Society, finding cancer early gives you a better chance of getting treatment that works. Here are 15 early signs of cancer you should not ignore.

1. Sudden Weight Loss Without Trying

Losing weight fast without changing diet or exercise could signal cancer, especially in the stomach, pancreas, lung, or esophagus. Dropping more than 10 pounds for no reason needs medical attention. Unexplained weight loss happens when the body burns calories at a faster rate due to cancer growth, and it can also be a sign that cancer is interfering with normal digestion and nutrient absorption.

2. Extreme Fatigue That Doesn’t Improve

Constant tiredness, even with enough rest, could be linked to leukemia, colon cancer, or stomach cancer. According to Scotland’s National Health Information Service, “Nine out of ten people with cancer (90%) experience fatigue.” Cancer-related fatigue does not improve with sleep and may come with pale skin or frequent infections. This type of fatigue can be overwhelming, making it difficult to complete daily activities. If fatigue is persistent and unexplained, a doctor should be consulted.

3. Persistent Pain Without a Clear Cause

Ongoing pain in bones, back, or joints might point to bone cancer or ovarian cancer. Long-lasting headaches could suggest brain cancer. Pain related to cancer can be dull, sharp, or burning and may not improve with medication. Any pain that lasts for weeks or worsens over time should be evaluated by your healthcare provider.

4. Skin Changes

New moles or changes in existing ones may indicate skin cancer. Look for moles that change color, shape, or size. Sores that don’t heal or crusty patches on the skin should be checked. Skin cancer can also cause new growths, unusual redness, or thickening of the skin, particularly in sun-exposed areas.

5. A Growing Lump

A lump in the breast, testicles, or lymph nodes might mean trouble. Even painless lumps can be cancerous. Some are small and hard to detect, so regular self-checks help. A lump that continues to grow and becomes painful or changes in texture should be assessed by a doctor.

6. Frequent Infections or Fevers

Leukemia weakens the immune system, making it harder to fight infections. Persistent fevers, frequent colds, or flu-like symptoms need medical attention. Leukemia can also cause swollen lymph nodes, excessive sweating at night, or unexplained weight loss.

7. A Cough That Won’t Stop

A cough lasting weeks or a hoarse voice that doesn’t improve might mean lung, throat, or thyroid cancer. Coughing up blood is a serious warning sign. Chronic coughing, especially when accompanied by chest pain, shortness of breath, or wheezing, should not be ignored.

8. Trouble Swallowing

Painful swallowing or food feeling stuck could be a sign of throat, esophageal, or stomach cancer. Long-term acid reflux might also be linked to cancer. Difficulty swallowing that persists can lead to malnutrition, so early diagnosis is essential.

9. Bowel Changes

Ongoing constipation, diarrhea, or blood in stool might be warning signs. Very dark or thin stool also needs medical attention. A sudden urge to pass stool without actually passing anything can also be an early indicator of colorectal cancer.

10. Blood in Urine or Stool Needs Immediate Attention

Blood in the stool may indicate colon cancer, while blood in the urine could typically mean bladder or kidney cancer. Even a small amount should be checked. Bright red blood suggests bleeding lower in the digestive tract, while darker blood may indicate a problem higher up.

11. Long-Lasting Bloating

Bloating that lasts for weeks, along with pelvic pain, could be linked to ovarian cancer. Many people ignore bloating, but persistent symptoms should be checked. Ovarian cancer can also cause changes in appetite, frequent urination, or unexplained weight gain.

12. Night Sweats or Unexplained Fevers

Waking up drenched in sweat or having frequent fevers without a clear reason might indicate lymphoma or other blood cancers. These symptoms often come with weight loss and swollen lymph nodes. Night sweats can be extreme, causing damp sheets and clothing.

13. Changes in the Breast

Any change in breast size, shape, or texture should be checked. Lumps, nipple discharge, or skin dimpling can be early signs of breast cancer. Other warning signs include an inverted nipple, swelling, or red, irritated skin on the breast.

14. Sores That Don’t Heal

A mouth sore that won’t heal might be oral cancer, especially in people who smoke or drink heavily. Skin sores that don’t go away also need medical attention. White or red patches inside the mouth or on the tongue could also be warning signs of oral cancer.

15. Unusual Bruising

Frequent bruising, especially on the hands or fingers, may signal leukemia or another blood-related cancer. Feeling weak, pale, or getting sick often needs medical attention. Unusual bleeding, such as heavy periods or nosebleeds, can also be linked to certain cancers.

The Takeaway

Finding cancer early gives you a better chance of successful treatment. If you notice any of these signs and they don’t go away, see a doctor right away. Regular checkups, knowing your body, and staying healthy can help catch cancer early and save lives.