'Red flag' cancer symptom to never ignore as GP shares common signs

Ovarian cancer is known for its non-specific symptoms, which can often be overlooked or dismissed as something less serious. Two GPs warned people not to ignore the red flags

Cancer is said to affect one in two individuals during their lifetime, yet many still tend to ignore common symptoms.

Worryingly, everyday signs are repeatedly brushed aside, with people failing to see them as warning flags. Dr Shireen, a GP who has become popular on TikTok for her educational clips, knows this all too well.

She pointed out often-missed typical “red flag” cancer symptoms in a recent video, stressing these shouldn’t be neglected for one's health.

In her video, Dr Shireen explained: "There is one cancer where I think patients sit on their symptoms for a little bit too long before they see their GP. Ovarian cancer.

"The symptoms of ovarian cancer are pretty non-specific a lot of the time that means you might think you just have a bit of an upset stomach, you've got a bit of indigestion, you're generally feeling quite tired. You might not necessarily straight away think it's cancer.

"Other cancers really like to show themselves, and show themselves off like a breast lump or mucus in the poo and changes in the bowel habit. Ovarian cancer doesn't really do that for us."

Dr Shireen advises vigilance for specific symptoms such as persistent bloating, quickly feeling full after eating, and a continuous dull ache in the lower belly or pelvic area. Another subtle sign to look out for is the need to urinate more often than usual.

If you're worried about potential health issues, your GP will typically start with a physical exam to look for any unusual lumps or masses and might also order a straightforward blood test to rule out other conditions. The test results often come back within one or two days and, if normal, can provide peace of mind.

However, should the tests indicate something concerning, further investigation would be necessary.

Dr Shireen has highlighted the critical importance of acting promptly on health concerns. She points out symptoms like those of ovarian cancer are often dismissed, which can lead individuals to delay seeking medical advice.

The recent video has struck a chord online, attracting over 9,000 likes and a wealth of comments as individuals share their experiences.

One user commented: "I literally was diagnosed with ovarian cancer when I was 24. For about four years I was going to the doctors, and they told me I was too young to see a gynaecologist, and that it's probably my periods."

Another shared: "My sister died age 26 to ovarian cancer. She started showing signs a year before she found out. What it was we just didn't know."

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