An estimated 2,000 people between the ages of 13 and 24 develop cancer every year. If on some hectic day, cancer successfully replicated in your body, would you be so acutely aware of the subtle changes happening within you to recognize the warning signs and mayhaps help stop it in its tracks? The American Cancer Society has identified some of the more common signs and symptoms. Read and heed the warnings.
A change in bowel or bladder habits, which includes blood in the urine, pain or a burning sensation, or increased urination, is a major warning sign for cancers of the bladder, kidney, or colon. Moreso, any unusual bleedings or discharges from any orfice stand by themselves as warning signs. Paleness, fatigue, weight loss, repeated infections, nosebleeds, bone or joint pain, and easy bruising are possible warning signs of Leukemia. Having a persistent cough or a hoarse throat could be a sign of Laryngeal, a cancer of the throat.
Health care professionals warn that women finding lumps, itching, redness, or soreness in the breast area should be concerned about breast cancer. If you have moles that change color, size, or appearance, or flat sores (lesions that look like moles), a tumor, or a lump under the skin that resembles a wart or an ulceration that never heals, then you should go quickly to your physician’s office as they could be signs of skin cancer.
A major concern for our age group has to do with our fairly recent obsession with tanning. There seem to be many dangers associated with UV radiation from the sun, tanning beds, and sun lamps. Public health experts warn that ultraviolet light abuse puts us at a high risk for skin cancer. I do feel obliged to add here that with all the negative spin that sun exposure has gotten from the media lately, one may be tempted to avoid the sun completely. But it’s important to remember that we all need sunshine to stay healthy. Exposure to the sun is thought to provide many benefits such as promoting the formation of vitamin D and fighting depression. The key is moderation.
Editor’s Note: Elena Sebe is a co-chair for the Relay for Life fundraising event that will take place on April 27. “Not the C-Word!” is a column granted by The Poly Editorial Board to promote cancer awareness during Cancer Control Month. Views expressed in this column do not necessarily reflect the opinions of The Poly or the Relay committee.
