Everyone’s body is different, so it’s important to know your own body and to recognise if something isn’t normal.
Some signs and symptoms to look for are:
- Unexplained weight loss or tiredness
- Unexplained persistent pain
- A change in the size, shape, colour of a mole
- Unexplained lump/swelling
- A change to bowel motions that lasts longer than 6 weeks
- Persistent bloatedness or dragging feeling in the lower abdomen
Screening
Remember to attend for routine screening when invited. In Northern Ireland breast, cervical and bowel cancer screening is available. For more information on available screening see here.
Women aware
It’s important that women check their breasts monthly for any changes, such as a lump, rash or inverted nipples. Many lumps are not cancerous but it’s important that all lumps are examined by a GP. All women between the ages of 50 to 70 are invited for breast screening. For more information see our breast cancer awareness leaflet .
Men aware
Men should carry out a monthly check to become familiar with what is normal for them. Men should check their testicles for lumps, unusual swelling or tenderness in this area. 9 out of 10 lumps are harmless but it’s better to get them checked by your GP. For more information see our testicular cancer leaflet.
Sexual health
There are an increasing number of young people contracting sexually transmitted infections (STIs). One of the STIs known as Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) has been linked to cervical cancer.
Women are advised to have regular smear tests, as abnormalities cannot visibly be seen. Girls between the age of 12- 13 should have the HPV vaccination, which will help prevent cervical cancer in the future.
For more information on the HPV vaccination see here.
