If urine is bloody or painful, or if one feels a frequent need to urinate, it might be a sign of bladder cancer. Lumps in the breast, swelling and itching in the breast area, or sore nipples could be signs of breast cancer. Bloody stools, frequent diarrhoea, or constipation can indicate colon cancer.

Cervical cancer starts with heavier bleeding, increased pain during menstruation, or unusual vaginal discharges. Prostate cancer starts with weak urination, pain in the pelvic region, or chronic back pain. Unusual bumps on or under the skin, darkened moles and sores that bleed or do not heal are signs of skin cancer. At the first sign of any of these cancers, you must see your doctor immediately for further testing. Early diagnosis of cancer is one of the most important aspects of beating the disease and increasing your chances of survival.

The potential causes of cancer are numerous. There are obvious carcinogens like smoking, pesticides and pollution. Unhealthy lifestyle choices like the overuse of alcohol and drugs, excessive exposure to the sun, being overweight and a failure to handle stress all contribute to the formation of cancer cells. Cancer can also be hereditary. Other cancer-causing substances you may not be aware of are: chlorinated water, mercury fillings in the teeth, processed foods with artificial colors and additives, diets low in fiber or high in fat and eating cured meats like hot dogs, salami, ham and bacon. Heavy use of artificial sweeteners, excessive sugar consumption, birth control pills, estrogen therapy, heavy coffee consumption, severe burns and a history of venereal disease also pose as higher risk factors for certain cancers.