There are more than 200 different types of cancer and experts say there are some early warning signs people are “most likely to ignore” – including three that can appear in the face
When it comes to tackling cancer, early detection is crucial for improving survival chances. There are over 200 potential signs and symptoms of cancer, but some are more subtle and easily overlooked than others.
Three such symptoms can appear in the face, and experts warn that these are among those most likely to be disregarded by individuals. With the current challenges in securing a GP appointment, it’s vital to be vigilant about any unusual changes and know when to seek medical advice.
Here are three facial indicators that are frequently missed.
Lung cancer
Lung cancer is one condition where certain facial symptoms may go unnoticed. The Reynolds Cancer Support House health site points out several symptoms that people are “most likely to ignore”.
It notes: “Some patients with lung cancer report noticing puffiness, swelling, or redness in the face.”, reports Surrey Live.
This can occur because small cell lung tumours often block blood vessels in the chest, leading to restricted blood flow from the head and face. Such changes are considered a “common sign” of lung carcinoma, although they can also be associated with other types of cancer.
Carcinoid Tumours
Carcinoid tumours, another form of cancer that tends to grow slowly, can develop in various parts of the body. The Mayo Clinic explains that these tumours, known as neuroendocrine tumours, typically start in the digestive system – including the stomach, appendix, small intestine, colon, rectum – or in the lungs.
These often don’t present signs and symptoms until the disease is advanced. However, they can produce and release hormones into your body that cause symptoms such as diarrhoea or skin flushing.
Research indicates that facial flushing is a result of carcinoid syndrome, which is triggered by an excess of hormone-like substances being released into the bloodstream. Carcinoid syndrome typically affects individuals with advanced carcinoid tumours.
Skin cancer
Squamous cell carcinoma, a type of skin cancer, can also alter the appearance of the face. These usually occur on parts of the face most exposed to the sun.
According to Mayo Clinic, squamous cell carcinoma of the skin primarily occurs on sun-exposed skin, including the scalp, backs of the hands, ears, or lips. However, it can occur anywhere on the body – even inside the mouth, on the soles of the feet, or on the genitals.
When squamous cell carcinoma of the skin occurs in people with Black and brown skin, it tends to occur in areas not exposed to the sun. Symptoms of squamous cell carcinoma of the skin include:
- A firm bump on the skin, called a nodule. The nodule might be the same colour as the skin, or it might look different. It can look pink, red, black or brown, depending on skin colour.
- A flat sore with a scaly crust.
- A new sore or raised area on an old scar or sore.
- A rough, scaly patch on the lip that may become an open sore.
- A sore or rough patch inside the mouth.
- A raised patch or wartlike sore on or in the anus or on the genitals.
