Understanding Cancer: The Importance of Early Detection and Screening

The Silent Threat of Cancer

It is often emphasized that early detection can be life-saving. Healthcare professionals frequently urge us to be vigilant about the signs our bodies may exhibit. However, the harsh reality is that cancer can sometimes develop without any noticeable symptoms, only to be found incidentally. Dr. Varun Goel, a Senior Consultant in Medical Oncology at the Rajiv Gandhi Cancer Institute & Research Centre, states, “One prevalent misconception is that cancer always presents with severe symptoms. This is not accurate. In fact, nearly 20% of cancers I encounter are identified incidentally during scans conducted for unrelated reasons.”

For 46-year-old Shyamali, this unexpected discovery occurred during a routine health examination. She was living what many would consider a healthy lifestyle—regular exercise, no smoking, minimal alcohol consumption, and a balanced diet. Remarkably, just a week prior to her diagnosis, she had triumphed in a burpees challenge at her gym. Such cases are not rare, according to oncologists.

Dr. Shyam Aggarwal, Chairperson of Medical Oncology at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, explains that many cancers develop slowly and remain symptom-free in their initial stages. “Tumors located in deep or internal organs, such as the pancreas, ovaries, lungs, kidneys, and liver, often do not show symptoms until they grow large enough to affect nearby structures, hinder normal function, or spread,” he elaborates. For example, pancreatic cancer is notorious for being diagnosed late, with symptoms like jaundice or abdominal pain typically surfacing only after significant progression of the disease. Similarly, ovarian cancer can be mistaken for benign conditions due to its mild or vague symptoms like bloating or pelvic discomfort.

Misleading Symptoms and Their Consequences

When Symptoms Are Misleading

Even when symptoms do manifest, they may not immediately trigger concern. Dr. Goel notes, “Initial cancer symptoms often resemble common health issues. A persistent cough might be treated as an infection, acidity could be dismissed as gastritis, back pain may be attributed to muscle strain, and rectal bleeding is frequently mistaken for hemorrhoids.” The real risk lies in postponing further investigation. “If a symptom persists for more than two to three weeks despite treatment, it warrants further examination,” he advises. He emphasizes, “Tissue is the issue. While scans may indicate a problem, only a biopsy can confirm it. Delays of several months can alter staging, which in turn affects outcomes.” He has witnessed young patients reach advanced cancer stages simply due to delays in seeking medical advice stemming from fear, denial, or misinformation.

Conversely, he has also treated asymptomatic patients whose cancers were detected early during preventive screenings, leading to successful outcomes. “Timing can change destiny,” he asserts. Regular screenings are vital for identifying certain cancers before symptoms arise. Dr. Aggarwal highlights that cancers like breast, cervical, and colorectal can often be detected in their early or precancerous stages through routine screenings. For others, such as pancreatic or ovarian cancer, being aware of symptoms and seeking timely medical evaluation is crucial. “Early consultation with a healthcare provider, whether a general practitioner or a specialist, can facilitate timely imaging, biopsies, or endoscopy,” he adds.

Updated Cancer Screening Guidelines

Updated cancer screening guidelines (2026)

Health professionals recommend the following screening protocols for early detection:

• Mammograms every two years for women aged 40–74
• Annual mammograms for ages 40–44, annual screenings for ages 45–54, and every 1–2 years after age 55

• Screening starts at age 25
• Primary HPV testing every five years until age 65
• Self-collected HPV tests are increasingly being considered

• Focus on symptom awareness and fecal occult blood testing for high-risk individuals

• Annual low-dose CT scans recommended for individuals aged 50–80 with a significant smoking history

• PSA testing based on shared decision-making from age 50, earlier for high-risk individuals

• Visual screening for individuals over 30, especially those who use tobacco or alcohol

Doctors advise discussing personalized screening plans with a physician, particularly for those with a family history or specific risk factors.

Listening to Your Body

Listen To Your Body

While screenings are essential, being aware of symptoms is equally important. Dr. Goel recommends, “Be attentive to unexplained weight loss, persistent fatigue, bleeding, non-healing ulcers, or changes in bowel habits. If something unusual persists for more than two to three weeks, consult a doctor—not Google or WhatsApp.” He expresses concern over the broader context surrounding cancer today, which includes late diagnoses, misinformation on social media, younger cancer onset ages, unhealthy lifestyle choices, and the financial burden of treatment. “Cancer is not merely a medical issue; it encompasses emotional, social, and economic dimensions. However, there is also hope. Survival rates are improving, treatments are becoming more personalized, and the quality of life during treatment is better than ever.” He concludes with a straightforward message for patients: “Do not fear the word cancer. Fear ignoring symptoms.”