Symptoms of Cancers That All Women Should Have On Their Radar

Cancer is one of the leading health concerns for women, with a wide range of types and symptoms that can often be subtle or mistaken for less serious conditions. Early detection is the secret to improving treatment outcomes and survival rates.

With this in mind, it’s crucial for women to be aware of the signs that may indicate a cancer diagnosis. Knowing what symptoms to look for can be life-saving.

Breast Cancer

Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women around the world, and it often presents with noticeable symptoms. The most common sign is a lump in the breast or under the arm, which may be hard or painless.

Other symptoms can involve new changes in the size or shape of the breast, skin dimpling, or nipple discharge (other than breast milk). In some cases, there might also be redness or warmth on the skin over the breast. Regularly checking your breasts and attending mammograms are vital in order for cancer to be picked up quickly.

Ovarian Cancer

Ovarian cancer is known as a “silent” cancer because its symptoms can be unclear and easily mistaken for other causes. However, if detected early, treatment options are more effective. Common symptoms include bloating, pelvic or abdominal pain, difficulty eating, or feeling full quickly.

Women may also experience changes in urinary urgency or frequency. If these symptoms are persistent for more than a few weeks, it’s time to consult a healthcare provider. To learn more about this, read the what are the symptoms of ovarian cancer guide from Moffitt Cancer Center. Being aware of any changes in your body and addressing them promptly is vital for early intervention.

Uterine Cancer

Uterine cancer, or endometrial cancer, typically affects women post-menopause but can also occur in younger women. The most common sign is unusual vaginal bleeding, like bleeding between periods or after the menopause.

Other symptoms may include pelvic pain or a feeling of fullness in the pelvic area, weight loss, and pain during intercourse. Any unusual bleeding should be spoken about with a doctor immediately, as it could be an early warning sign of uterine cancer.

Cervical Cancer

Cervical cancer often does not present symptoms until it is in the advanced stages, which is why regular Pap smears are crucial. Early symptoms may include abnormal vaginal bleeding (such as after sex), unusual discharge, and pelvic pain.

If left undetected, the cancer can move to nearby organs and cause more severe symptoms like leg pain, back pain, or blood in the urine. Preventive screenings like Pap tests and HPV vaccinations can help bring down the risk of developing cervical cancer.

Colorectal Cancer

Colorectal cancer occurs in the colon or rectum and can cause a variety of symptoms. Women may experience unexplained weight loss, fatigue, and changes in bowel movements, like diarrhea, constipation, or blood in the stool.

Abdominal discomfort or bloating and feeling as though the bowel doesn’t empty completely are also common signs. It is crucial to schedule regular screenings, especially after the age of 50, as early detection can drastically improve survival rates.

Lung Cancer

Though often associated with smoking, lung cancer can affect nonsmokers as well. Symptoms to be mindful of include a persistent cough, coughing up blood, shortness of breath, chest pain, and wheezing. Women who experience these symptoms, particularly if they worsen over time, should see a healthcare provider to rule out lung cancer or other lung-related conditions.

Skin Cancer

Skin cancer is the most common kind of cancer in the U.S., and women need to check their skin regularly for new or changing moles or spots. The signs of skin cancer include moles that change in size, shape, or color, or new growths that appear unusual.

Irregular borders, multiple colors, or bleeding from a mole are warning signs that should not be ignored. Regular skin checks, either at home or by a dermatologist, can help spot skin cancer early.