A doctor has explained what signs people under 50 should look out for when checking their bodies for cancer.
Cancer diagnoses in individuals under 50 have been steadily increasing, with specific types such as breast cancer, lymphoma, and colorectal cancer seeing notable upticks.
While the exact reasons for this rise remain unclear, there are some patterns emerging, particularly in younger adults.
Other cancers, like testicular, kidney, and pancreatic cancer, have also seen a slight increase, though they remain relatively rare in this age group.
Writing for the New York Post, Dr. Paul Oberstein has detailed the six signs that you should be looking out for.
1. Changes in Bowel MovementsFor colorectal cancer, any noticeable changes in bowel habits should be taken seriously. This includes alterations in stool color (such as it becoming darker), changes in size or shape, or the presence of blood.
These could all be signs of a potential issue and should prompt a visit to a healthcare professional.
While the rise in colorectal cancer cases over the past decade is likely tied to environmental and dietary shifts, the exact cause remains uncertain. However, this is a trend worth monitoring, and any abnormal bowel changes should never be ignored.
Unintended weight loss is a common, though not exclusive, symptom of cancer. It can also accompany other general changes such as feeling full quickly when eating, shifts in sleep patterns, or decreased energy levels.
While these symptoms often point to something less serious, weight loss without trying can sometimes be a red flag that something more significant is at play.
If someone notices they are losing weight without any conscious effort or no longer feel inclined to eat, it’s a good idea to reach out to a healthcare provider to investigate further.
3. Lumps or AbnormalitiesBreast cancer is one of the most prevalent cancers in people under 50. Often, it’s detected through changes like a lump in the breast, skin discoloration, or unusual discharge.
Similarly, testicular cancer, though rarer, is another concern for younger men. In these cases, men may feel a lump or abnormality in their testicles. Whether painful or not, any such findings should be checked out by a doctor.
Skin cancers, including melanoma, can sometimes start as unusual skin growths or changes in existing moles. Any new or altered skin lesions should be examined by a medical professional, especially if they change shape, color, or texture over time.
5. Unusual BleedingAbnormal bleeding can signal a variety of health issues, including cancer. Blood in the stool could indicate colorectal cancer, while blood in the urine might suggest problems with the bladder or kidneys.
Unexplained vaginal bleeding, especially after intercourse, could point to cervical or endometrial cancer and should be investigated promptly.
The good news, however, is that cervical cancer has become less common in younger adults, thanks to improved screenings like the Pap smear.
Frequent night sweats, along with unexplained fevers or chills, can be a sign of an underlying condition such as lymphoma.
These symptoms often point to an issue in the lymphatic system, and if accompanied by swelling in areas like the armpits or lymph nodes, they should be taken seriously.