Cancer is the second leading cause of death in the United States. Around 1500 people die every day due to cancer. As a matter of fact, cancer accounts for 1 out of 4 deaths. This is why this subject is so important to me. I am a nurse by trade and have witnessed the devastation caused by cancer for a very long time. The problem is, if people only knew the signs and symptoms of cancer, the chance of survival would be much higher. Early detection of the signs and symptoms of cancer is a very powerful weapon in our arsenal! Therefore, this site will revolve around the early detection of the signs and symptoms of cancer.

I will teach you a very simple acronym associated with detecting cancer. If you gather nothing else from this site, please put this in your memory bank. The acronym for detecting the signs and symptoms of cancer is “CAUTION”.

C: Change in bowel or bladder habits.

A: A sore that won’t heal.

U: Unusual discharge or bleeding.

T: Thickening of a breast or body part.

I: Indigestion or difficulty swallowing.

O: Obvious changes in a mole or wart.

N: Nagging cough or hoarseness.

These obviously aren’t the only signs and symptoms of cancer, but it is a good tool to keep in mind if you start experiencing any of these. There are lots of factors that can prevent cancer. These include smoking cessation, eating a healthy diet, exercise, and using alcohol moderately if at all. As we explore these different signs and symptoms of cancer, I will go more in depth on all of them.

Keep in mind:

• Even if you experience signs and/or symptoms of cancer, it isn’t the end of the world. Some cancers aren’t a death sentence, merely a call to action.
• Early prevention is the key! I can’t say that enough. If you experience ANY signs or symptoms of cancer, see your health care provider. Also, get frequent checkups; you should AT LEAST see your doctor once a year!
• Eat healthy, exercise, refrain from alcohol and tobacco, refrain from excessive sun exposure, and get plenty of rest.
• Pay attention! If you have a mole or wart bigger than a pencil eraser with edges that are uneven or broken, see your doctor. This could be melanoma.