Mark 13:33, “Take ye heed, watch and pray: for ye know not when the time is.” Cancer is the second leading cause of death in the United States. Over 500,000 deaths will occur this year due to cancer. Fortunately the death rate for cancer is declining. Most cancers are lifestyle related: smoking, high fat diet, obesity are all risk factors for cancer. Adopting a healthy lifestyle will reduce your risk, but early detection is also very important. Therefore regular physical examinations, which includes routine cancer screening test, are imperative. There are also warning signs for cancer that require immediate evaluation. To remember the seven early warning signs of cancer (as designated by the American Cancer Society), think of the word CAUTION:
C – change in bowel or bladder habits.
A – a sore that does not heal.
U – unusual bleeding or discharge.
T – thickening or lump in the breast, testicles, or else where.
I – indigestion or difficulty swallowing.
0 – obvious change in the size, color, shape, or thickness of a wart, mole, or mouth sore.
N – nagging cough or hoarseness.
So don’t ignore these signs. If they occur please get an evaluation. It may be the difference between life and death!