November 3, 2025 : A leading oncologist from Raipur, Dr. Anjali Mehra, has urged the public to pay close attention to subtle changes in their bodies, warning that early detection can make the difference between life and death when it comes to cancer. Speaking at a recent public awareness seminar on National Cancer Awareness Month, Dr. Mehra emphasized that many common cancers start with minor, often overlooked symptoms that people dismiss as routine or harmless.
“Most cancers are curable if detected early. The tragedy is that people wait until symptoms become severe or painful, by which time the disease has already advanced,” said Dr. Mehra.
The Growing Burden of Cancer in India
India witnesses nearly 14 lakh new cancer cases every year, according to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR). The most common cancers include breast, cervical, lung, oral, and colorectal cancers, all of which have early warning signs that often go unnoticed.
Dr. Mehra highlighted that lifestyle changes, pollution, dietary habits, and stress have increased the risk of developing cancer even among younger age groups.
“We are seeing patients in their 20s and 30s with cancers that were earlier seen mostly in people over 50,” she said.
Common Early Warning Signs You Should Never Ignore
Dr. Mehra listed several symptoms that people should never dismiss and recommended immediate consultation with a doctor if they persist for more than a few weeks.
1. Unexplained Weight Loss
Losing weight without changes in diet or exercise could be an early sign of cancers such as pancreatic, stomach, or lung cancer.
“Your body burns more calories fighting disease. Don’t assume sudden weight loss is good news,” she cautioned.
2. Persistent Fatigue or Weakness
Chronic tiredness that doesn’t improve with rest may signal leukemia or colon cancer, especially when accompanied by other symptoms like pallor or breathlessness.
3. Lumps or Thickening Under the Skin
A painless lump in the breast, neck, or groin area can be an early indicator of breast or lymphatic cancer. Regular self-examination and timely screening are vital for early detection.
4. Changes in Moles or Skin Patches
A mole that changes in size, color, or shape could point to melanoma, one of the deadliest forms of skin cancer.
“Any new growth or sore that doesn’t heal for weeks should be evaluated by a dermatologist,” advised Dr. Mehra.
5. Unexplained Bleeding or Discharge
Bleeding between periods, blood in urine or stool, or coughing up blood are all red flags. These could be symptoms of cervical, colon, or lung cancer.
6. Difficulty Swallowing or Persistent Cough
Trouble swallowing, hoarseness, or a lingering cough can indicate throat or esophageal cancer.
“People often treat this as acidity or seasonal throat irritation — that delay can be dangerous,” Dr. Mehra warned.
7. Bloating or Changes in Bowel Habits
Persistent bloating, constipation, or diarrhea might signal ovarian or colorectal cancer. Monitoring digestive patterns is crucial, especially for people above 40.
Why Early Detection Matters
Dr. Mehra emphasized that screening tests and timely intervention dramatically improve survival rates.
“Breast cancer, for example, has a survival rate of over 90% if caught in Stage 1, but that drops below 40% by Stage 3,” she said.
She also encouraged people to undergo routine health check-ups, even in the absence of symptoms, especially if there’s a family history of cancer.
Lifestyle Factors Increasing Cancer Risk
According to Dr. Mehra, around 40% of cancers are preventable through lifestyle modification.
She listed key risk factors such as:
- Tobacco and alcohol consumption
- Sedentary lifestyle
- Poor diet lacking fruits and vegetables
- Obesity and stress
- Prolonged exposure to pollution and radiation
“Your daily habits decide your long-term health. Prevention is always better — and cheaper — than cure,” she said.
Government and Community Role
Dr. Mehra also urged greater participation from state health departments and NGOs to make cancer screening accessible and affordable. Mobile screening vans, teleconsultations, and awareness drives in rural areas could help bridge the early-detection gap.
She commended ongoing government efforts under the National Programme for Prevention and Control of Cancer, Diabetes, Cardiovascular Diseases, and Stroke (NPCDCS) but said more focus is needed on public education.
“Awareness is the first step. When people recognize warning signs, we can diagnose and treat early — that saves lives,” she concluded.
Empowering the Public
Experts agree that awareness campaigns and open dialogue about cancer symptoms can reduce fear and stigma. Early intervention not only improves outcomes but also reduces the emotional and financial burden on families.
Dr. Mehra ended with a simple message:
“Listen to your body. Pain is not the only sign of disease. Small, persistent changes are your body’s way of warning you — don’t ignore them.”
Summary
Raipur oncologist Dr. Anjali Mehra urges vigilance toward minor body changes, highlighting early warning signs of cancers like breast, cervical, and lung, stressing early detection saves lives.