Early Warning Signs of Cancer: What You Should Never Ignore

By Dr. Niranjan Naik, Director – Surgical Oncology, Fortis Memorial Research Institute, Gurugram

Cancer has become increasingly common in recent years. Many of us have heard of a relative, friend, or colleague being diagnosed with some form of cancer. Alarming statistics show that cancer cases are doubling every 10–15 years, making it a rising health crisis globally.

But here’s the good news: many cancers can be cured—if detected early.

Dr. Niranjan Naik, a leading surgical oncologist at Fortis, shares essential information to help people understand early warning signs of cancer and how early detection can be life-saving.

Why Cancer Is Rising — And What You Can Do

Cancer is now recognized as a lifestyle disease in many cases. Factors such as poor diet, sedentary habits, tobacco use, stress, and environmental pollution contribute to increased risk.

Living a healthy lifestyle can significantly reduce your chances of developing cancer. However, it’s equally important to know the early signs and act quickly.

The “CAUTION” Mnemonic: 7 Early Signs of Cancer You Should Know

To help remember the early symptoms of cancer, experts use the acronym CAUTION. Here's what each letter stands for:

🔹 C – Change in Bowel or Bladder Habits

• Sudden constipation or diarrhea
• Increased frequency of urination, especially at night
• Difficulty in urination or any change from your normal pattern
  These can be signs of colorectal, bladder, or prostate cancer.

🔹 A – A Sore That Does Not Heal

• Persistent ulcers or wounds, especially in the mouth or skin
• Common in oral cancers, particularly in tobacco users
  Any sore that does not heal over time should be examined and may require a biopsy.

🔹 U – Unusual Bleeding or Discharge

• Blood in urine, stool, sputum, or vomit
• Abnormal vaginal bleeding or foul-smelling discharge in women
  This could be a warning sign for lung, stomach, colon, or cervical cancer.

🔹 T – Thickening or Lump

• Any painless lump in the breast, neck, armpit, or any other body part
  Breast cancer often presents as a painless lump, which is why people delay seeing a doctor. Do not ignore any swelling or lump, even if it’s not painful.

🔹 I – Indigestion or Difficulty in Swallowing

• Chronic indigestion
• Pain or discomfort when swallowing food
  These symptoms can be associated with esophageal, stomach, or intestinal cancers.

(Dr. Naik’s script appears to cut off after this point, but for completeness, here are the remaining two letters of the CAUTION mnemonic.)

🔹 O – Obvious Change in a Wart or Mole

• Change in color, size, or shape
• Bleeding or crusting
  These could be early signs of skin cancer such as melanoma.

🔹 N – Nagging Cough or Hoarseness

• Persistent cough that doesn’t go away
• Voice changes or hoarseness
  These are commonly seen in lung, throat, or thyroid cancers.

Why Early Detection Saves Lives

Dr. Naik emphasizes that early detection is the best protection. Many cancers—such as breast, cervical, and oral cancers—have nearly 100% cure rates when diagnosed at an early stage.

Delays in diagnosis can allow the cancer to progress to an advanced stage, where treatment becomes more complex and outcomes are less favorable.

Take Charge of Your Health

If you or someone you know experiences any of these symptoms for more than 2–3 weeks, do not ignore them. Consult a healthcare professional immediately. Simple screenings or biopsies can often provide clarity and peace of mind.

Your awareness could save a life. Maybe even your own.

Disclaimer:
This article is for informational purposes only. It does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor for any health-related concerns or symptoms.