Get a Cancer Check Up

• Prostate Cancer:

This is the most common cancer among Australian men, with a valuable amount of prostate cancer information freely available. It’s also most prevalent in men over the age of 50. It develops when cells begin to act abnormally in the prostate, which is a small gland about the size of a walnut between the genitals and anus. Symptoms can occur in older men naturally, as the prostate gland does continue to grow in later life. However, it’s always better to be on the safe side and speak with a doctor. Symptoms include a frequent urge to urinate, low flow pressure when urinating, blood in semen or urine, pain in the lower back, hips, or thighs, and finding it difficult to start urination.

• Breast Cancer:

This is the most common cancer in Australian women. It is possible for a man to develop breast cancer, but the disease is primarily seen in women. Breast cancer can cause significant psychological distress as survivors may have to have their breasts removed in order to beat the disease. That’s why early detection is so important, especially for the at risk group of women between 50 and 74 years of age. There are also many types of breast cancer which require different treatments. Symptoms can include a lump or lumps in the breast; ulcers, redness, crusting or inversion of the nipple; discharge coming from a nipple without squeezing; change to the skin of a breast including dimpling or redness; and pain in the affected area which will not diminish.

• Bowel Cancer:

Also known as colorectal cancer, bowel cancer is common among both men and women, especially those over the age of 50. It occurs when a tumour forms anywhere along the colon and rectum. 90% of people can be cured if the cancer is detected early in its development. Symptoms include lethargy, unexplained weight loss, abdominal pain, and feeling as though the bowel has not emptied completely.

• Oral Cancer:

3 Australians are diagnosed with Oral cancer every day, and yet it is a disease which is often overlooked. Oral cancer involves cancerous growths in the mouth or on the tongue. Symptoms include difficulty swallowing, loss of sensation to the affected area, white or red patches, painful gums, loose teeth, slurring of speech, unusual tastes, a visible lump, or swollen lymph nodes.

• Skin Cancer:

An astonishing fact is that 2 out of every 3 Australians will be diagnosed with skin cancer before they reach 70. In places like Queensland, skin cancer rates are among the highest in the world. There are different forms of skin cancer, but symptoms usually include one or more of the following: nonhealing sores, pale, red or pearl coloured lumps on the skin, new freckles or spots, and moles which change colour.

All five cancers are a major concern for Australians of all ages, but especially those aged 50 and over. But by knowing what to look for, these diseases can be treated in many cases. There is no doubt, however, that preventative measures and regular check-ups are of key importance to either stop the disease from happening or catching it early enough so that it can be treated.