A cancer charity has shared the three crucial symptoms to look out for when eating, urging people to remember that ‘you are not wasting’ a doctor’s time if you need to go and get checked out.
Macmillan Cancer Support estimates that there are currently three million people living with cancer in the UK, a number believed to rise to four million by 2030 and 5.3 million by 2040.
Cancer incidence in the UK has risen by 40 percent since 2002, and by 19 percent in the last decade alone.
"This is likely due to the growing and aging population who are at higher risk of developing cancer, as well as improvements in diagnosis initiatives and public awareness,” Macmillan said.
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This means it’s more important than ever to understand the signs to look out for, with the charity saying there are three in particular that might crop up at meal times.
In a post on its website, Macmillan explained how different types of cancer have difference symptoms.
"These symptoms can be caused by things other than cancer,” it said.
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“But if you experience any of the symptoms listed below, or any other unusual symptoms, you should see your GP as soon as possible.
“You are not wasting your GP’s time by getting your symptoms checked.”
As well as general symptoms like pain, lumps or swellings and unexplained bleeding or bruising, there are three things to look out for when eating.
Loss of appetite
Macmillan said to contact your GP if you regularly:
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- do not feel like eating as much as you normally do
- feel full quickly when you eat
Swallowing or chewing problems
Equally, if you have any difficulty swallowing or chewing, or a feeling that something is stuck in your throat, you should also get it checked by your GP.
Indigestion and heartburn
While you might experience indigestion or heartburn after eating a large, spicy meal, Macmillan advised people to contact their GP if they get ‘indigestion or heartburn that happens most days for 3 weeks or more, or if it is very painful’.
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Most importantly, the main thing to remember is that anything that seems unusual for you could be worth getting checked out, whether it's a change in a cough or a mole that's grown slightly bigger.
Similarly, unexplained or ongoing symptoms may also be a warning sign, so call your GP if you have any concerns.
Jess Hardiman