Cancer Signs & Symptoms
Understanding the signs and symptoms of cancer can help you know when to get checked.
Most changes to your body won’t be cancer, but it’s important to know what’s normal for you. If you notice something that doesn’t feel right or won’t go away, speak to your doctor.

Are you worried about cancer?
It’s natural to have questions or concerns about cancer. Learning about the signs and symptoms of cancer can help you feel more confident about knowing what’s normal for you and when to seek advice.
Most changes to your body won’t be cancer, but if something doesn’t feel right or won’t go away, it’s important to get it checked. Explore the information below to learn about different types of cancer, common symptoms, possible risk factors, and some of the myths that can stop people seeking help early.
Find out more about cancer signs and symptoms below, or visit Cancer – NHS
If you’re worried about any cancer symptoms, your doctor will want to see you. Book an appointment.
Learn more about Cancer Types
These cancer types are those where we currently have higher rates of later stage diagnosis across Lancashire and South Cumbria. We want to raise awareness of the common signs and symptoms to help people get checked sooner if they have any concerns. Find out more about symptoms, risk factors and where to get trusted advice.
Lung Cancer
Doesn’t only affect people who smoke. Learn about the symptoms, risk factors and when to speak to your GP.
Some symptoms include:
- Persistent Cough
- Unexplained weight loss
- Coughing up blood
Bowel Cancer
Affects the large bowel (colon) or rectum. Learn about the symptoms, who may be at greater risk and when to speak to your GP.
Some symptoms include:
- Blood in your poo
- A change in your bowel habits
- Ongoing tummy pain, bloating or discomfort
Ovarian Cancer
Symptoms can be easy to mistake for other common conditions. Learn what to look out for and when it’s time to seek advice.
Some symptoms include:
- Persistent bloating
- Feeling full quickly
- Pain or tenderness in your tummy or pelvis
Prostate Cancer
Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers in men. Learn about the possible signs, who’s at greater risk and how it’s diagnosed.
Some symptoms include:
- Needing to pee more often than usual
- Difficulty starting or stopping when you pee
- A weak or slow flow of urine
Breast Cancer
Needs some intro copy
Some symptoms include:
- A lump or swelling in your breast, chest or armpit
- A change in the size or shape of one or both breasts
- Changes to the skin of your breast, such as dimpling or redness.
“The NHS were extraordinary. Honestly, I can’t tell you how positive they were, the support they gave me at every stage throughout this whole process, and how easy they made it for me.”
Chris