Here's what to look out for and when you should speak to a doctor
14:29, 12 Jan 2026
Experts have warned that three symptoms affecting the whole body could signal cancer. These “general” signs could be easily dismissed or mistaken for something else.
There are more than 200 types of cancer that affect the human body. Typically the symptoms will therefore depend on where the disease is.
However, there are some less specific symptoms that are worth investigating. On its website, experts at Cancer Research UK explained more.
The site said: “Spotting cancer at an early stage means treatment is more likely to be successful. Being aware of some of the key signs and symptoms of cancer can help. There are over 200 different types of cancer, and they all have different signs and symptoms.
“Some affect specific areas of the body, such as our tummy or skin. But symptoms can also be more general, such as weight loss, tiredness (fatigue) or unexplained pain.”
However, it’s important to note that these symptoms don’t mean you definitely have cancer. The charity continued: “Some symptoms, like a lump, are better known than others.
“But this doesn’t mean they’re more important or more likely to be cancer. You should get any possible symptom of cancer checked out. In most cases, it won't be cancer, but if it is, spotting it early can make a real difference.
“Listen to your body and talk to your doctor if you notice anything that isn’t normal for you. As there are so many signs and symptoms of cancer, it would be impossible to remember them all.
“That’s why it’s important to be aware of what is normal for you and speak to your doctor if you notice any unusual changes or something that won’t go away. This can help to diagnose cancer at an early stage, when treatment is more likely to be successful.”
It listed three “general” signs to be mindful of:
- Very heavy night sweats or fever
- Fatigue
- Unexplained weight loss
Very heavy night sweats or fever
You should consult a medical professional if you have “very heavy”, “drenching” night sweats. It said: “Sweating at night or having a high temperature (fever) can be caused by infections or a side effect of certain medications.
“It’s also often experienced by women around the time of the menopause. But speak to your doctor if you have very heavy, drenching night sweats, or an unexplained fever.”
Fatigue
It’s normal to feel tired every now and then, but persistent fatigue could be a red flag. “There are lots of reasons why you may feel more tired than usual, particularly if you’re having trouble sleeping or are stressed,” the charity said.
“But if you’re feeling tired all the time, or if there is no clear reason you’re feeling tired, speak to your doctor.”
Unexplained weight loss
It added: “Small weight changes over time are quite normal. But if you or other people think you have lost a noticeable amount of weight when you aren’t trying to, tell your doctor.”
For more information, visit the Cancer Research UK website here.