When cancer is in its very early stages, there are often no symptoms. Sometimes early symptoms do not seem like anything serious. Learning what to look for can lead to early detection. The chances of curing cancer are much greater, the earlier it is found.

The American Cancer Society has identified seven major warning signs of cancer:
* a change in bowel or bladder habits,
* a sore that does not heal,
* unusual bleeding or discharge,
* a lump in the breast or other parts of the body,
* chronic indigestion or difficulty in swallowing,
* obvious changes in a wart or mole, or
* persistent coughing or hoarseness.

If any of these warning signs are present, it is recommended that you have a medical examination soon. Having one of these warning signs does not mean you are sure to have cancer. If cancer is present though, treatment can begin immediately. This greatly increases your chances of cure.

There are more warning signs for other kinds of cancer. They are not as common as those listed above.

To learn more about the warning signs of cancer, call your local chapter of the American Cancer Society, or call (800) ACS-2345 or the National Cancer Institute at (800) 4-CANCER.

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