Cancer prevention and early detection
Current estimates indicate that around half of all cancers are due to lifestyle factors and largely preventable - but regular screening is essential
Cancer
What is cancer?
Cancer is the abnormal and uncontrolled growth of cells which invade and destroy local tissues and eventually may spread to other parts of the body.
Advances in treatment, early detection and screening have led to a decrease of incidences and improved survivals for many types of cancers.
Common signs and symptoms
Cancer often has no specific symptoms so it is important to limit risk factors and utilise appropriate screening programs. A warning symptom should not be ignored as it can lead to early diagnosis and possibly a cure.
Common symptoms of cancer can include:
- weight loss
- tiredness/fatigue
- pain
- fever
- chronic cough
- bowel changes
What to do if signs and symptoms of cancer appear
The first thing to do is make an appointment with a doctor. In some situations the doctor may not be able to find a cause for these signs and symptoms, but if they persist continue to see the doctor and ask for them to be investigated.
Related links
- Health Insite
- Better Health
- National Breast Cancer Foundation
- Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia
- Bowel Cancer Australia
- Lung Foundation
- Melanoma Institute Australia
- Leukaemia Foundation
- McGrath Foundation
