Know About Medicines with Chula Pharmacy: Warning Signs of Cancer and Common Types

Cancer is one of the leading causes of death worldwide. Therefore, we must take care of ourselves and our loved ones by learning about cancer and recognizing its warning signs. Being aware of these signs can help us detect the disease at an early stage, improving survival chances and quality of life. In Thailand, the three most common cancers are breast cancer, lung cancer, and colorectal cancer. These cancers are strongly linked to genetics and aging. If you have a family history of these cancers, your risk is higher, and as you grow older, the chances of developing them also increase.

Breast Cancer

Breast cancer is a serious disease among women. Women aged 35 and above have an increased risk of breast and ovarian cancer, especially after the age of 40. Breast cancer risk is associated with hormone levels. Women who have their first period before age 12, experience menopause after age 55, or use hormone replacement therapy for long periods are at higher risk. Other factors include having no children, having the first child after age 30 without breastfeeding, obesity, lack of exercise, alcohol consumption, and smoking. Warning signs include lumps in the breast or armpit (often painless), changes in breast shape, nipple inversion, chronic wounds, skin dimpling resembling orange peel, persistent redness, or constant pain in the breast or armpit. If any of these signs appear, see a doctor immediately.

Lung Cancer

The number one risk factor for lung cancer is smoking—both active smoking and secondhand smoke. Other risk factors include exposure to carcinogens such as asbestos or industrial chemicals, and air pollution (e.g., PM 2.5). Genetics also play a role, especially if close family members have had lung cancer. The risk increases further with age. Warning signs include a persistent cough lasting more than 2–3 weeks, coughing up blood, difficulty breathing, wheezing, chest pain or tightness, pain when breathing deeply, fatigue, chronic hoarseness, frequent pneumonia, or bronchitis. If you experience these symptoms, consult a doctor immediately.

Colorectal Cancer

Colorectal cancer is most common in people aged 50 and above, and in those with diets high in fat, red meat, or processed foods, but low in fiber from fruits and vegetables. It is also associated with chronic inflammatory bowel disease, polyps, family history of colorectal cancer, obesity, lack of exercise, alcohol consumption, and smoking. Early warning signs include abnormal bowel movements such as alternating constipation and diarrhea, incomplete evacuation, or frequent bowel movements. Stool changes may include thinner stools or blood (either bright red or dark). Other symptoms include abdominal pain, bloating, frequent cramps, anemia (fatigue, dizziness, paleness).

General Warning Signs (Non-Specific)

Some cancer warning signs are non-specific and often appear when the cancer has advanced, such as:

• Unexplained weight loss of more than 10% within 6 months without dieting or excessive exercise
• Unusual fatigue despite adequate rest
• Chronic fever, especially prolonged fever without a known cause
• Persistent pain that does not respond to usual treatments
• Skin changes, such as moles that change in color, size, or shape, or wounds that do not heal

If you notice these signs, consult a doctor as soon as possible.

Medication Issues and Advice

Many patients often buy over-the-counter medicines to relieve symptoms like chronic cough, constipation alternating with diarrhea, or regular pain. These symptoms may seem like minor conditions but can be linked to cancer. Medicines may temporarily relieve symptoms but do not treat the underlying cause. If such symptoms occur alongside cancer risk factors or other warning signs, pharmacists recommend seeking medical evaluation quickly to rule out serious disease. Remember: early detection of cancer can lead to complete recovery.