Approximately 10 million people die a year of cancer and it’s the second leading cause of death globally. But is it possible to have cancer and not even know it? Yes, it’s entirely possible to have cancer and not know it—especially in the early stages. Many types of cancer develop slowly and silently, producing few or no symptoms until they’ve progressed significantly.
Why Cancer Can Go Undetected
- Early cancers often don’t cause pain.
- Symptoms may be mild or mistaken for common illnesses (e.g., fatigue, weight loss, bloating, or a persistent cough).
- Some cancers, like pancreatic, ovarian, or kidney cancer, are particularly stealthy.
- Internal tumors can grow without being visible or felt externally.
- Not everyone undergoes regular screenings, which are designed to catch cancer early—even when you feel fine.
Common Silent Symptoms to Watch For
These don’t necessarily mean cancer, but they warrant medical attention:
- Unexplained weight loss
- Persistent fatigue
- Changes in bowel or bladder habits
- New or unusual lumps
- Skin changes or sores that don’t heal
- Persistent cough or hoarseness
- Unexplained bleeding (in stool, urine, or coughing)
The Importance of Screening
Screening tests like mammograms, colonoscopies, Pap smears, and low-dose CT scans can detect cancer before symptoms appear, increasing the chance of successful treatment. Here’s a comprehensive list of recommended cancer screenings based on current guidelines from organizations like the American Cancer Society (ACS) and the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF). These are for people at average risk; those with a family history or other risk factors may need earlier or more frequent screenings.
- Breast Cancer (Women)
- Screening: Mammogram
- Start: Age 40–44 (optional); 45–54 yearly; 55+ every 2 years or continue yearly
- Self-exams and clinical breast exams are not a replacement for mammograms but can be helpful
- Cervical Cancer (Women)
- Screening: Pap test and/or HPV test
- Start: Age 21
- 21–29: Pap test every 3 years
- 30–65: Pap test every 3 years, or HPV test every 5 years, or both every 5 years
- Stop: After age 65 if past tests have been normal and no high risk
- Colorectal Cancer (Men & Women)
- Screening: Colonoscopy, stool tests (like FIT or Cologuard), or flexible sigmoidoscopy
- Start: Age 45
- Frequency:
- Colonoscopy: Every 10 years (if normal)
- Stool test (FIT): Every year
- Stool DNA test (Cologuard): Every 3 years
- Lung Cancer (Smokers/Former Smokers)
- Screening: Low-dose CT scan
- Start: Age 50–80
- Eligibility:
- 20 pack-year smoking history
- Currently smoke or quit within the past 15 years
- Frequency: Annually
- Prostate Cancer (Men)
- Screening: PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) blood test
- Start Discussion: Age 50 (or 45 for higher risk: African American men or those with a family history)
- Frequency: Depends on PSA level and doctor’s guidance
- Skin Cancer (Everyone)
- Screening: Skin checks by a dermatologist and regular self-exams
- Start: No set age — especially if you have fair skin, lots of moles, or family history
- Frequency: Annually or as recommended by a dermatologist
- Oral, Testicular, and Ovarian Cancers
- No routine population-wide screening is currently recommended for average-risk individuals, but self-checks and routine physical exams can help with early detection.
Cancer can hide in your body for months or even years. However, awareness, regular check-ups, and age-appropriate screenings can significantly improve early detection. If something feels off, don’t ignore it.
Copyright 2021, GoHealthier.com
