Seven Danger Signs of Cancer
Found on page 25 of the 2015 printing of the Personal Fitness Merit Badge Pamphlet
If you recognize any of these seven danger signs, seek further testing for cancer. Awareness of these seven signs will increase the chances of diagnosing cancer at an early stage and therefore increase your chance of survival.
Change in bowel or bladder habits could be a sign of colorectal cancer.
A sore that does not heal on the skin or in the mouth could be a malignancy and should be checked by a doctor.
Unusual bleeding or discharge from the rectum or bladder could mean colorectal, prostate, or bladder cancer.
Thickening of the breast tissue or a new lump in the breast is a warning sign of breast cancer. A lump in the testes could mean testicular cancer.
Indigestion or trouble swallowing could be cancer of the mouth, throat, esophagus, or stomach.
Obvious changes to moles or warts could mean skin cancer.
Nagging cough or hoarseness that persists for four to six weeks could be a sign of lung or throat cancer.
Closely watch for these signs, which are your body’s way of alerting you to potential problems. If you experience any of them, schedule an appointment with your physician immediately.