Different types of cancer all have their own symptoms.
General symptoms which could be a sign of cancer can include:
Other symptoms of cancer may affect specific parts of the body.
Skin symptoms can include:
Digestion symptoms can include:
Mouth and throat symptoms can include:
Lung and breathing symptoms can include:
Vagina or penis symptoms can include:
If a GP thinks your symptoms could be a sign of cancer, you may get an urgent referral for more tests or to see a specialist in hospital.
Most of these symptoms are very common and can be caused by other conditions.
Having these symptoms does not definitely mean you have cancer, but it's important to get checked by a GP.
If your symptoms are caused by cancer, finding it early may mean it's easier to treat.
Anyone can get cancer and it's not always clear what causes it. But there are things that can increase your risk of getting certain types of cancer.
These can include:
You cannot always prevent cancer, but there are things you can do to reduce your risk of getting some types of cancer.
have cancer screening when you're invited – such as cervical screening, breast screening (mammogram) or bowel cancer screening
have the HPV vaccine or hepatitis B vaccine if you're offered them
speak to a GP about genetic testing for cancer risk genes if a type of cancer runs in your family, a relative has been told they have a faulty gene linked to cancer, or you have 1 or more Jewish grandparents
try to cut down on alcohol and avoid drinking more than 14 units a week
try to lose weight if you're overweight, or keep to a healthy weight
try to quit smoking
follow advice on sunscreen and sun safety, such as wearing sunscreen of at least 30 SPF and spending time in the shade, to protect your skin
be physically active – aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate activity or 75 minutes of vigorous activity a week
NHS Better Health has free tools and support to help you lose weight, get active, quit smoking and drink less alcohol.
There are more than 200 different types of cancer.
Cancer can affect any part of your body, including your organs, blood, bone marrow and immune system.
Sometimes cancer spreads from one place to another. This is called secondary cancer, or metastasis.
Cancer charities have more information about these and other types of cancer:
The treatment you'll have depends on the type of cancer.
The most common treatments for cancer include:
Treatment can also involve:
You'll be looked after by a team of specialists who will work with you to create a treatment plan that is best for you.
The NHS aims to diagnose and treat cancer as early as possible. NHS England has guidance on cancer waiting times for being diagnosed and starting treatment.
The guidance says:
Macmillan Cancer Support has a free helpline open every day from 8am to 8pm.
They're there to listen if you have anything you want to talk about.
National cancer charities offering support and information about cancer, including the symptoms, types, causes and treatments: