A new lump or swelling
Including changes in the breast, neck, armpit, or elsewhere—even if painless.
UNDERSTAND MORE. FEAR LESS.
Cancer awareness.
One clear step
at a time.
Clear information can help you notice changes, make healthier choices, and know when to speak to a doctor.
Know the warning signsFor you. For your family. For everyday life.
A LITTLE KNOWLEDGE GOES A LONG WAY
Awareness starts
with understanding.
Cancer is a group of diseases in which abnormal cells grow uncontrollably and may spread.
A diagnosis is not the whole story. Outcomes depend on the cancer type, stage, biology, and treatment. Many cancers can be treated successfully.
01 / LISTEN TO YOUR BODY
Changes worth checking.
These symptoms often have causes other than cancer. A new, persistent, or worsening change still deserves medical attention.
Unusual bleeding
Blood in urine or stool, coughing blood, or bleeding after menopause needs assessment.
A cough or voice change
A cough or hoarseness that does not settle, or difficulty swallowing.
Unexplained body changes
Unintentional weight loss, lasting fatigue, or unexplained fever and night sweats.
A sore that does not heal
A persistent mouth ulcer, red or white mouth patch, or a changing skin mark.
Changed bowel habits
A lasting change in your usual bowel pattern, especially with bleeding or weight loss.
Don’t wait for pain.Arrange an assessment for an unexplained change. Severe bleeding or serious breathing difficulty needs urgent medical care.
02 / SMALL CHOICES, REAL VALUE
You can lower
your risk.
Not every cancer can be prevented. Cancer is never a personal failure. But some everyday choices can reduce your risk.
Keep tobacco out of your life
Avoid smoking, chewing tobacco, and second-hand smoke. Ask for support to quit. Avoid areca nut, including supari.
Move more. Eat a balanced diet.
Stay active, work towards a healthy weight, and include whole grains, vegetables, fruit, and pulses. Limit processed meat.
Choose less alcohol—or none
Alcohol increases the risk of several cancers. Avoiding it reduces alcohol-related cancer risk.
Ask about protective vaccines
HPV and hepatitis B vaccination can prevent infections that cause some cancers. Discuss eligibility with your doctor.
Protect your skin
Use shade, protective clothing, and sunscreen, and avoid tanning beds.
Source: World Health Organization · Preventing cancer · IARC · Prevention guidance · Oral cancer prevention
03 / BEFORE SYMPTOMS APPEAR
Screening is a conversation.
The right test depends on your age, organs, family history, exposures, and local guidance. More testing is not always better.
Mammography
Ask when to start and how often to screen, based on your age and risk.
HPV-based screening
HPV testing, Pap testing, or other locally recommended methods can detect risk or precancerous changes.
Stool tests or colonoscopy
Your age and family history help guide the test and timing.
Risk-based assessment
Low-dose CT is for selected people at high lung-cancer risk. Discuss oral examination if you use tobacco or areca nut.
Symptoms? Don’t wait for a screening date.
Screening is for people without symptoms. A symptom needs diagnostic assessment—even after a normal screening test. Screening can have benefits and harms, including false alarms and overdiagnosis.
Read more: NCI · Screening tests · Benefits and limitations
04 / LET’S CLEAR THINGS UP
Less misinformation.
More understanding.
Tap a question to get the facts.
Does cancer always mean a poor outcome?
No. Many cancers can be cured, and others can be controlled for long periods. Prognosis depends on the specific cancer, its stage, and response to treatment.
Can I catch cancer from someone?
Cancer does not spread through everyday contact, sharing food, or hugging. Some infections that increase cancer risk can spread between people, but cancer itself is not contagious in everyday life.
Will a biopsy make cancer spread?
The chance of a biopsy causing cancer to spread is extremely low with standard techniques. A biopsy is often essential to establish the diagnosis and choose treatment.
Can cutting out sugar cure cancer?
No. Avoiding all sugar does not cure cancer. Good nutrition supports your health; restrictive diets can cause harm, particularly during treatment.
Can herbal remedies replace cancer treatment?
No herbal product has been shown to cure cancer. Some supplements can interfere with treatment. Tell your oncology team what you take.
Source: NCI · Common cancer myths
YOUR NEXT STEP
One question today.
A more informed tomorrow.
Notice a change? Speak to a doctor.
Feeling well? Ask which screening and prevention steps fit you.
About Cancer Aware
Cancer Aware provides clear, evidence-based information to help people better understand cancer, recognise important warning signs, make informed choices about prevention and screening, and know when to seek medical advice. The purpose is to improve cancer awareness through reliable, easy-to-understand information without creating unnecessary fear.
Medically reviewed by
Dr Hakeem Ansar Hussain
Medical Oncologist
Last medically reviewed:
Sources & Medical Review
The educational information on Cancer Aware is reviewed against established evidence-based medical sources, including the World Health Organization (WHO), International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), and, where appropriate, major evidence-based oncology guidelines and peer-reviewed medical literature. Links to relevant sources are provided alongside the educational sections.
Reference to these sources does not imply endorsement by, or affiliation with, WHO, IARC or any other organisation.
Medical Disclaimer
The information on Cancer Aware is provided for general education and awareness only. It is not a substitute for consultation, diagnosis or treatment by a qualified healthcare professional. If you have persistent, worsening or concerning symptoms, please seek medical advice.