Last year alone a staggering 18 million cases of cancer were diagnosed - and many are treatable.

But of those cases 5 million could have been detected sooner and treated more effectively, according to new data.

To encourage more people to ensure they don't miss the symptoms of a potentially deadly disease the Union for International Cancer Control is speaking out.

They have published 14 symptoms to look out for.

Union for International Cancer Control president Princess Dina Mired of Jordan said: “Cancer thrives on late presentation of the disease .

"The delay allows it to spread and cause damage totally unchallenged. That is why, on this World Cancer Day , I urge you all to educate yourselves with the signs and symptoms of cancer and to not be afraid to seek help immediately.

"Equally, I urge governments to prioritise and systemise early detection and screening programmes to allow for better access and to give all a fighting chance to beat cancer.”

Time Line

The 14 signs of cancer you should never ignore

  1. Reason number one

    Unusual lumps of swelling which are often painless and may increase in size

  2. Reason number two

    Persistent coughing, breathlessness or difficulty swallowing

  3. Reason number three

    Changes in bowel habits, eg constipation, diarrhoea and / or blood found in the stools

  4. Reason number four

    Needing to urinate urgently, more frequently, or being unable to go when you need to or experiencing pain.

  5. Reason number five

    Unexpected bleeding including from the vagina, anal passage, or while urinating or when coughing

  6. Reason number six

    Unexplained and unintentional weight loss over a short period

  7. Reason number seven

    Fatigue, extreme tiredness and a severe lack of energy

  8. Reason number eight

    New mole or changes to a mole in terms of size, shape or colour and if it becomes crusty or bleeds or oozes

  9. Reason number nine

    Unexplained or ongoing pain or pain that comes and goes

  10. Reason number ten

    Unusual breast changes in size, shape or feel, skin changes or pain

  11. Reason number 11

    Feeling less hungry than usual for a prolonged period of time

  12. Reason number 12

    A spot, sore, wound or mouth ulcer that won't heal

  13. Reason number 13

    Persistent or painful heartburn or indigestion

  14. Reason number 14

    Heavy, drenching night sweats




