Cancer signs in teenagers are often overlooked

Research has found that teenagers and young adult cancer patients often feel frustrated that their symptoms are not taken seriously.

And, according to WebMD, cancer in teenagers is often overlooked or diagnosed late. As cancer is so rare in teenagers, doctors and other healthcare workers often do not think about cancer when they try to diagnose signs and symptoms of illness in teenagers.

Symptoms (even non-specific symptoms) that persist, require a more in-depth evaluation, and young adults may need to be assertive and have the right to ask questions.

Common signs of cancer in teenagers

These are a few of the common signs of cancer in young people according to the Teenage Cancer Trust. You must get these checked out if they are persistent and unexplained:

• Pain that doesn’t go away quickly when you take painkillers
• Lumps, bumps or swellings
• Significant weight loss (when you’re not dieting, stressed or exercising hard)
• Extreme tiredness
• Changes in a mole (changes in their size or colour, or if they start bleeding)
• Unexplained bruising
• Bleeding you can’t explain – for instance in your urine, vomit or stools, after sex, or between periods.

Some of the non-specific symptoms that can signal cancer

• Lethargy (extreme tiredness)
• Pain
• Bone pain
• Fever
• Weight loss
• Generally not feeling well

Teenagers concerned that they may have symptoms of cancer should talk to a doctor who will be able to undertake a proper examination and conduct the necessary tests relating to the symptoms and provide professional guidance. When you go to the doctor, take a list of your symptoms with you. Tell the doctor when the symptoms started, how long they have been apparent and whether they are getting worse. Also try to take a parent or other trusted adult with you.

Resources

• www.teenagecancertrust.org/
• www.webmd.com