Cancer can strike any age group. While a Cancer diagnosis for some can mean the end of the world, there are self-examinations that can be performed to reduce the risk. If caught early, the survival rate for patients diagnosed with cancer increases ten-fold when they are most treatable. For the average person age 15 – 40 the most common cancers to look out for include: thyroid, melanoma, lymphoma, germ cell tumors (testicular, ovarian), cervical, colorectal, central nervous system, leukemia and breast cancer.

Women are more susceptible to breast, thyroid, melanoma, lymphoma and cervical cancer. The chance of contracting breast cancer increases as women get older, and begins once a woman has her first period before the age of 12 or are going through menopause after the age of 55. While performing self- examinations some symptoms may include lumps, change in size and abnormal discharge from the nipple. While it is not impossible for men to be diagnosed with breast cancer, the chances are fairly slim.

Cervical cancer is a little harder to detect by performing self-exams. Most cervical cancer may not cause symptoms at first, however regular visits to the gynecologist for Pap tests can determine your risk for this cancer. By visiting your physician once a year you can prevent cervical cancer from advancing. However, if you are experiencing pain or abnormal bleeding, it is important to seek medical attention right away.

The average male needs to be on the lookout for testicular, melanoma, lymphoma, colorectal and leukemia. Testicular cancer usually occurs in mails between the ages of 20 – 39. It is most common in men who have had abnormal development and issues with undescended testicles. Symptoms include pain, lumps or swelling in the testicles.

Colorectal cancer is cancer of the large intestine or colon, and can include the rectum. Symptoms include diarrhea or constipation, frequent gas pains or blood in your stool. If you experience frequent nausea or vomiting please visit your physician to assess your situation. Colorectal cancer often strikes men age 50 and older. With surgery, the chances of surviving this cancer are enormous.

There are many types of cancers, all of them very serious diagnosis. While being diagnosed with cancer can change your life, it doesn’t mean you are defenseless against cancer. With high tech treatments and advancements in medicine the survival rate is much, much higher. Cancer survival rates vary depending on the cancer and stage in which it is found thus it is imperative that you take your health in your own hands and be proactive when it comes to detection.

It is important that if your family has a history of any type of cancer that you perform self-evaluations and visit the doctor regularly. For more information on thyroid or melanoma please visit the additional articles in our blog. It’s also important to eat a balanced diet and exercise regularly as studies have shown that people who are overweight have an increased risk of cancer.

Early detection can save your life.

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