Cancer is often called a “silent killer” because its early signs can be so easy to miss — or so mild that many women dismiss them as normal changes in their bodies. However, early detection can make all the difference between a simple treatment and a life-threatening disease.

Every woman should know what her body is trying to tell her. Below are 15 warning signs of cancer that women commonly overlook, but should never ignore.

1. Unexplained Weight Loss

If you suddenly lose weight without changing your diet or exercise routine, it could be a sign that something is wrong. While many people welcome unexpected weight loss, it can be an early symptom of cancers of the pancreas, stomach, lung, or colon.

Cancer speeds up metabolism and burns calories faster as it spreads. If you lose more than 5 kilograms (about 10 pounds) in a month without trying, see your doctor.

2. Unusual Fatigu

Chronic tiredness that doesn’t improve with rest may indicate more than just stress or lack of sleep. Blood cancers like leukemia or lymphoma, and even colon or stomach cancer, can cause extreme fatigue.

This happens because your body is using up energy to fight the disease, or because cancer is interfering with your red blood cell production.

3. Changes in the Breasts

Breast cancer doesn’t always begin with a lump. Watch for:

• Swelling in part of the breast
• Skin dimpling or redness
• Changes in nipple position or discharge (especially bloody)
• Thickening or pain in the breast or underarm area

Many women ignore these changes, thinking they are hormonal. But any new or unusual change in your breasts should be examined immediately.

4. Abnormal Vaginal Bleeding

Unusual bleeding — between periods, after sex, or after menopause — is one of the clearest warning signs of gynecological cancers, such as uterine, cervical, or ovarian cancer.

Even light spotting outside your normal cycle should be checked, as it could indicate early-stage cancer that’s still highly treatable.

5. Bloating and Abdominal Discomfort

Persistent bloating, abdominal pain, or a feeling of fullness after small meals can be early indicators of ovarian cancer.

Many women confuse these symptoms with digestive problems or PMS, but if bloating lasts for more than two weeks, it’s important to get checked. Ovarian cancer is often diagnosed late because women ignore these early signs.

6. Changes in the Skin

Skin cancer isn’t always obvious. A new mole, a mole that changes color or shape, or a sore that doesn’t heal could all be warning signs.

Be aware of the ABCDE rule:

• Asymmetry
• Border irregularity
• Color changes
• Diameter over 6mm
• Evolving or changing appearance

If you notice anything unusual on your skin — even in hidden areas — schedule a dermatology checkup.

7. Persistent Cough or Hoarseness

A cough that lingers for weeks, a raspy voice, or shortness of breath may be early signs of lung, throat, or thyroid cancer.

Women who don’t smoke often dismiss a chronic cough as allergies or a cold, but any cough lasting more than three weeks deserves medical attention.

8. Difficulty Swallowing

If swallowing becomes painful or feels like food gets stuck in your throat, it might be due to esophageal, throat, or stomach cancer.

Many women ignore this symptom, thinking it’s acid reflux or heartburn. If it persists, get a thorough evaluation, especially if it’s accompanied by weight loss.

9. Changes in Bowel Habits

Sudden constipation, diarrhea, narrow stools, or blood in the stool can signal colon or rectal cancer.

Women often attribute these symptoms to diet, stress, or hemorrhoids — but when bowel changes last longer than two weeks, it’s time to get tested.

10. Changes in Urination

Needing to urinate frequently, pain during urination, or blood in the urine could be signs of bladder or kidney cancer.

Many women mistake these symptoms for urinary tract infections. If antibiotics don’t clear up the problem, further investigation is necessary.

11. Persistent Pain or Aches

Pain that lingers and doesn’t respond to typical remedies should never be ignored. Whether it’s pelvic pain, lower back pain, or headaches, chronic pain can be a sign of several cancers, including bone, ovarian, or brain cancer.

Don’t assume pain is “just part of aging” — your body may be signaling something serious.

12. Unhealed Sores or Mouth Changes

Sores inside the mouth that don’t heal, white or red patches on the tongue or gums, or chronic mouth pain can be early signs of oral cancer.

Women who smoke, drink alcohol, or have HPV are at higher risk. Regular dental visits can help catch these changes early.

13. Persistent Fever or Night Sweats

Low-grade fevers and excessive sweating at night may seem like symptoms of menopause or infection, but they can also be caused by leukemia or lymphoma.

If you experience these symptoms without an obvious reason — especially along with fatigue or weight loss — seek medical advice.

14. Changes in the Lymph Nodes

Swollen lymph nodes — especially in the neck, armpits, or groin — are a sign that your body is fighting something. Persistent, painless swelling could indicate blood cancers like lymphoma or leukemia.

If the swelling lasts longer than two weeks or continues to grow, see your doctor.

15. Indigestion or Loss of Appetite

Ongoing indigestion, nausea, or loss of appetite might seem minor, but when persistent, they can signal stomach, liver, or pancreatic cancer.

If you find it hard to eat or feel full quickly, don’t ignore it — especially if it’s accompanied by fatigue or unexplained weight loss.

Why Women Often Overlook These Signs

Women are often busy caring for families, managing work, and handling daily life, so it’s easy to dismiss mild symptoms as stress or hormonal changes.

But ignoring these signs gives cancer more time to grow. Listening to your body — and acting early — can literally save your life.

When to See a Doctor

You should consult a healthcare provider if you experience:

• Persistent or worsening symptoms lasting more than two weeks
• Unexplained changes in your body (skin, weight, energy levels, or cycles)
• Bleeding or pain that seems abnormal

A simple physical exam, blood test, or scan can often detect cancer early when it’s easiest to treat.

How to Lower Your Cancer Risk

While not all cancers are preventable, these steps can lower your risk:

• Avoid smoking and limit alcohol
• Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
• Exercise regularly
• Maintain a healthy weight
• Get regular screenings, such as Pap smears, mammograms, and colonoscopies

Final Thoughts

Cancer can be frightening — but knowledge is power. The earlier it’s caught, the better your chances of full recovery.