The Biz Reporter Desk
New Delhi, Dec 5: As the world braces for an expected surge in cancer diagnoses, a leading oncologist has cautioned the public about four rarely recognised symptoms that may signal underlying malignancy but are commonly overlooked.
According to the National Cancer Institute, the United States alone is projected to record over 2 million new cancer cases in 2025. In a detailed conversation with The Washington Post, Dr Mikkael A. Sekeres, chief of haematology and professor of medicine at the Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Miami, outlined four warning signs that deserve urgent attention.
1. Chest or Abdominal Pain After Alcohol
While many people associate stomach or chest discomfort after drinking with acidity or gastritis, Dr Sekeres said persistent, localised pain immediately after alcohol consumption can point to cancers such as lymphoma. This pain often does not respond to antacids and typically recurs in the same region — including lymph nodes or the lower back.
2. Bone Fractures From Minimal Trauma
Another often-missed symptom is unexpected bone fractures. A break resulting from a minor fall or trivial impact may indicate weakened bones caused by cancer, either originating in the bone or spreading from organs such as the breast, lung, thyroid, kidney, or prostate. These are classified as pathological fractures and require immediate medical evaluation.
3. Extremely High Calcium Levels in Blood
Dr Sekeres noted that unexpectedly high calcium readings on routine blood tests can also serve as a subtle cancer warning. This condition, known as hypercalcemia, may occur when cancer damages bone tissue or releases hormones affecting calcium regulation. Patients may experience fatigue, bone pain, digestive issues, kidney stones, or mental confusion.
4. Painful or Swollen Breasts and Persistent Nipple Discharge
Changes in breast appearance or sensation — such as pain, swelling, redness, or unusual nipple discharge — can sometimes be early indicators of aggressive cancers, including inflammatory breast cancer. Unlike infections or benign conditions, these symptoms may worsen over time and do not respond to standard treatments.
Rising Awareness Crucial, Say Experts
Health experts emphasise that while these symptoms do not always signal cancer, their persistence or unusual nature warrants prompt medical attention. “Not all cancer symptoms are dramatic,” Dr Sekeres said. “Some are subtle and easily dismissed, which is why awareness is vital.”
With cancer cases projected to rise globally, oncologists stress the importance of early detection — a factor that significantly improves treatment outcomes.
