Medical experts warn of cancer symptoms and early detection signs

Medical experts in Vietnam are warning the public, particularly young people, to remain vigilant regarding persistent physical symptoms that may indicate serious underlying conditions such as cancer or acute leukemia.

Dr. Ha Hai Nam from K Hospital identified seven key warning signs that warrant medical examination: unusual lumps in the neck or chest, persistent unexplained pain, chronic coughing, abnormal bleeding (such as nosebleeds or blood in stool/vomit), significant changes in bowel habits, and unusual skin lesions. While these symptoms do not guarantee a cancer diagnosis, their persistence is a critical indicator for early detection.

Regarding nosebleeds, Dr. Luu Hung Vu from the Ho Chi Minh City Oncology Hospital noted that while most cases are benign—often caused by dry weather, allergies, or hypertension—recurrent bleeding or bleeding lasting over 20 minutes can be linked to more serious issues like nasopharyngeal cancer or blood disorders. Other red flags include unexplained weight loss, fatigue, easy bruising, or swollen lymph nodes.

Additionally, clinical reports from 108 Military Central Hospital highlight the dangers of acute leukemia, a rapidly progressing blood cancer. Symptoms such as dizziness, pale skin, fever, and fatigue can often be mistaken for general exhaustion, leading to dangerous delays in treatment.