When cancer is detected early, your chances of successful treatment increase. It’s important to see your primary-care provider to help identify any potential health concerns.

Cancer can create a wide variety of signs and symptoms, and sometimes you won’t feel any changes in your body until the cancer has spread and is pressing on nearby nerves or organs. Anyone who has concerning symptoms should contact his or her provider immediately to get any needed tests.

Potential signs and symptoms:

• Changes in breast, bladder, mouth, skin, weight or bowels

• Bleeding or bruising for no known reason

• Swelling or lumps anywhere

• Fever, cough or fatigue that is severe and lasting

• Eating problems, including appetite changes, nausea, belly pain or chronic

indigestion

• Neurological problems, including headaches, seizures, vision or hearing changes

Source: National Cancer Institute

Screening during COVID-19

Many people postponed routine cancer screenings when the pandemic started in 2020, and as a result, people in New Mexico have received delayed diagnoses and care for advanced or later-stage cancer, according to the Christus St. Vincent Cancer Center. The Santa Fe-based cancer center recommends resuming screening as usual.

To increase your comfort level, ask your provider about:

• COVID-19 safety protocols • Virtual offerings

• Program and service changes

For questions or concerns, American Cancer Society’s live chat is available at cancer.org or call 1-800-227-2345 any time.