Cancer can grow silently in the body, but there are some warning signs worth paying attention to. While these symptoms can also be caused by less serious conditions, “if you notice any of the following signs persisting for an extended period, it’s important to seek medical advice.”

Losing weight without trying can be one of the first visible signs of cancer. It may point to cancers like pancreatic, stomach, or lung.

Ongoing pain without a clear cause can also signal cancer. “Bone pain can be associated with bone cancers,” and long-lasting headaches could be linked to brain cancer—especially if combined with dizziness or nausea.

Watch for changes in moles or new skin growths. “Irregular borders, uneven color, or sudden itching, bleeding, or crusting” may signal skin cancer like melanoma.

Bleeding from places like the mouth, rectum, or vagina could indicate cancers such as lung, colorectal, or uterine. “Any unexplained bleeding or discharge… should never be ignored.”

Early detection greatly increases the chance of successful treatment. If something feels wrong and persists, get it checked.