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Researchers in Keele University have highlighted the top eight unexplained symptoms that are most closely linked to cancer. The study, which uses some of the most recent advances in science research technology, was found while looking for symptoms which gave a one in 20 or higher chance of turning out to be cancer. The figure for each symptom was calculated by combining results of 25 previous studies and the signs are presented below.
Eight Signs of Cancer
- Anaemia
- Blood in urine
- Coughing up blood
- Difficulty swallowing
- Breast lump or mass
- Post-menopausal bleeding
- Abnormal prostate test
- Rectal blood
As there are over 200 different types of cancer, which causes different symptoms in patients, the results of this study still represents “a relatively low chance” of anyone with the symptom having the disease. However, any suspicion of cancer could lead to patients being sent for tests more quickly so as to catch the disease and provide better care as early as possible. This is because treatment is often more likely to be successful when cancer is diagnosed at an early stage.
According to the BBC, a spokesman for Cancer Research UK says that these were by no means the only potential warning signs for cancer. Furthermore, anyone who notices an unusual or persistent change in their body still needs to get checked out.