Symptoms

Family history plays a significant role in determining an individual's risk of developing cancer. This is because our genes, inherited from our parents, can influence our susceptibility to certain types of cancer. Additionally, shared lifestyle habits and environmental factors within families can also contribute to the risk. Knowing one's family history of cancer helps healthcare professionals identify individuals at higher risk and recommend appropriate screening and prevention strategies.

Unexplained weight loss is when a person loses a significant amount of weight without making deliberate changes to their diet, exercise, or lifestyle. It typically occurs when the body loses more calories than it takes in, leading to a reduction in fat, muscle, or fluid.

Nausea is a queasy feeling in the stomach that often precedes vomiting. It's a sensation that something is wrong within the body, making you feel like you might throw up. Vomiting, on the other hand, is the act of forcefully emptying the stomach contents through the mouth. The brain controls both of these responses and can be triggered by various internal and external factors. Various factors can cause these symptoms and may require medical attention depending on their severity and duration.

Acid reflux, also known as heartburn or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), is a condition where stomach acid travels upwards into the oesophagus. The oesophagus is the tube that connects our throat to the stomach. Normally, a muscular valve called the lower oesophageal sphincter (LES) prevents the acid from moving up. When the LES becomes weakened or relaxes abnormally, acid can escape into the oesophagus, leading to a burning sensation in the chest or throat. While occasional acid reflux is normal, persistent or severe cases may require medical attention. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and when to seek help can lead to better management and relief.

Colorectal cancer is a type of cancer that affects the colon (large intestine) and rectum. Screening for colorectal cancer is a crucial preventive measure as it helps detect the disease early, when it is more treatable.

Anaemia is a condition that occurs when a person has lower than normal levels of red blood cells or haemoglobin in their blood. Red blood cells are crucial for transporting oxygen throughout the body. When there aren't enough red blood cells or haemoglobin, organs and tissues, receive less oxygen, leading to various symptoms like fatigue, weakness, and shortness of breath. In severe cases this can lead to a heart attack, stroke or death. Understanding anaemia and its causes can help individuals recognise its symptoms and seek timely medical assistance.

Tumour markers are substances produce by healthy cells and cancer cells. Most healthy individuals have very low tumour markers in contrast to patients with tumor marker producing cancers whereby the levels can be elevated. While abnormal tumour markers may indicate an underlying cancer there are many other non-cancerous causes that can result in elevated tumour markers. Therefore, it is important to seek medical attention when abnormal tumour markers are detected to evaluate the cause.

Change in bowel habits encompasses variations in how often you have bowel movements, the texture of your stool (e.g., hard, loose), and colour changes. These changes can be temporary or persistent, and they might be accompanied by other symptoms such as abdominal pain or bloating.

Constipation is a condition characterised by irregular bowel movements, typically fewer than three per week. During constipation, the stool becomes hard and dry, making it difficult to pass. This happens because the colon absorbs too much water from the stool, causing it to become compacted and slow-moving through the intestines.

Diarrhoea occurs when the digestive system is disrupted, leading to an increased frequency of bowel movements with loose, watery stools. This happens because the intestines cannot absorb water from the stool effectively. It can be an acute, short-term issue or a chronic condition lasting for weeks or longer.