Daijiworld Media Network – Raipur

Raipur, Nov 4: Cancer often begins silently, with subtle symptoms that many overlook — but recognising these early signs can be life-saving, says Dr Jayesh Sharma, Consultant Surgical Oncologist at ITSA Hospitals, Raipur.

In his recent social media post, Dr Sharma highlighted the most common cancers in India and urged people to pay attention to symptoms that persist or recur.

“This first swelling is not normal. If any swelling, sore, or ulcer inside the mouth doesn’t heal even after several weeks, it could be an early warning sign of oral cancer,” he explained, adding that such symptoms are often dismissed as minor infections, leading to delayed diagnosis.

He also cautioned that abnormal bleeding can be another crucial sign. “Like in old movies where someone coughs and spits blood — that’s actually a red flag for lung cancer. These small but significant signs can help in early detection if we pay attention,” he noted.

Speaking about women’s health, Dr Sharma said cervical cancer remains the second most common cancer among Indian women. “Unusual or persistent vaginal bleeding, especially outside the menstrual cycle or after menopause, should never be ignored,” he advised.

However, he reminded that not every symptom means cancer. “Don’t panic. Occasional gum bleeding or irregular periods are common. The key is persistence and recurrence — if a symptom keeps coming back, your body is trying to tell you something,” he added.

Dr Sharma concluded with a crucial reminder: “Cancer rarely starts with pain; it begins with small changes. Listening to your body and seeking timely check-ups can make all the difference.”