Early Signs of Cancer You Should Never Ignore
CANCER INSIGHTS
Early Signs of Cancer You Should Never Ignore – Advice from Delhi’s Leading Oncologist
Cancer often develops silently and by the time symptoms become obvious, the disease may have progressed to an advanced stage. According to Dr. Suhail Qureshi, one of the best medical oncologists in Delhi at Fortis Hospital, early detection is the key to improving survival rates and treatment outcomes. This blog outlines common early warning signs of cancer and highlights when to consult a specialist.
Why Early Detection Matters in Cancer Treatment
Many cancers are treatable even curable when diagnosed early. Unfortunately, due to a lack of awareness or ignoring early symptoms, patients often delay visiting a doctor. Fortis Hospital Delhi's oncology department, led by experts like Dr. Suhail Qureshi, emphasizes routine screenings and early recognition of warning signs.
Key Benefits of Early Detection:
Less aggressive treatment
Higher survival rates
Lower medical costs
Better quality of life during and after treatment
Common Early Signs of Cancer You Should Never Ignore
1. Unexplained Weight Loss
Sudden weight loss without changes in diet or physical activity can be a red flag. Losing more than 5 kg unintentionally may signal cancers such as pancreatic, stomach, esophageal or lung cancer.
Dr. Qureshi’s Advice:
“If you're shedding kilos without trying, especially with fatigue or appetite loss, consult an oncologist in Delhi at the earliest.”
2. Persistent Fatigue
While fatigue is common in today’s fast-paced life, persistent and unexplained fatigue even after rest, can be an early sign of leukemia, colon cancer or stomach cancer.
3. Lump or Thickening in Breast or Other Body Parts
A painless lump in the breast, neck, armpit or testicles can be a warning sign. Self-examination and routine check-ups are vital, especially for women above 40.
Expert Tip:
Always report lumps to a cancer specialist, even if they aren’t painful.
4. Changes in Skin or Moles
Skin cancer can begin as minor changes like new moles, changes in existing moles or unexplained skin pigmentation. Look for:
Irregular borders
Color changes
Size increase
Itching or bleeding
5. Persistent Cough or Hoarseness
A cough that lasts more than 3 weeks, especially with blood, should not be ignored. It could indicate lung, throat or laryngeal cancer.
6. Difficulty Swallowing or Indigestion
Chronic indigestion or difficulty swallowing (dysphagia) can be associated with gastrointestinal cancers, including esophageal and stomach cancer.
7. Changes in Bowel or Bladder Habits
Prolonged constipation or diarrhea
Blood in stools
Change in urine color or frequency
These may point to colorectal, bladder or prostate cancers.
8. Non-Healing Sores or Ulcers
Sores that don’t heal, especially in the mouth (common in tobacco users) or on the skin, should raise concern.
9. Unusual Bleeding or Discharge
Abnormal vaginal bleeding, blood in urine or discharge from nipples may signal uterine, bladder or breast cancer respectively.
10. Persistent Pain
Chronic pain in the back, bones or pelvis can be associated with cancer that has spread (metastasized) or originated in these areas.
When to Consult a Medical Oncologist in Delhi
If you experience one or more of these symptoms for more than 2-3 weeks, it's important to see a cancer specialist. Dr. Suhail Qureshi, practicing at Fortis Hospital Delhi, recommends not delaying consultations out of fear or uncertainty.
“Timely detection makes treatment easier and often less intensive. Always listen to your body, it speaks before disease takes over,” he says.
Why Choose Dr. Suhail Qureshi at Fortis Hospital, Delhi?
With years of experience in treating a wide range of cancers, Dr. Suhail Qureshi is regarded as one of the best oncologists in Delhi. He is known for:
Evidence-based, compassionate care
Personalized treatment plans including chemotherapy, immunotherapy & targeted therapy
Expertise in complex cancer cases
Integrated cancer care at Fortis Hospital, one of the top cancer centers in Delhi
Cancer Screening Services at Fortis Hospital
To support early diagnosis, Fortis Hospital Delhi offers regular cancer screening programs for:
Breast cancer (mammography)
Cervical cancer (PAP test, HPV)
Prostate cancer (PSA test)
Colon cancer (colonoscopy, stool test)
Lung cancer (low-dose CT scan)
Book a screening with Dr. Qureshi’s oncology team to stay ahead of potential risks.
Real-Life Success Story
Miss R, 38, from South Delhi, noticed slight bleeding after intercourse. Initially attributing it to stress, she ignored it. A few weeks later, after reading about early symptoms in a blog, she consulted Dr. Suhail Qureshi. Early-stage cervical cancer was detected and successfully treated with minimal intervention.
This is just one of many lives changed through timely action and expert care.
Takeaway: Don’t Ignore the Whispers of Your Body
Many cancers whisper before they roar. Ignoring early signs can cost you not just your health but your life. With expert guidance from Dr. Suhail Qureshi, Delhi’s trusted medical oncologist at Fortis Hospital, you can take charge of your health journey.