5 Warning Signs That Cancer May Be Developing in Your Body

Persistent pain—whether it’s in the back, abdomen, chest, or bones—could signal a deeper problem. Certain types of cancer press on nerves or organs, causing chronic pain that doesn’t go away.

What to watch for:

  • Ongoing headaches, back pain, or abdominal discomfort

  • Pain that worsens over time or doesn’t have a clear cause

4. Changes in Skin or Moles

Your skin can often reveal signs of cancer, especially melanoma (skin cancer). But other changes, like yellowing, darkening, or redness of the skin, could be linked to internal cancers.

What to watch for:

  • New moles or changes in existing ones (shape, color, size)

  • Skin that itches, bleeds, or doesn’t heal

  • Jaundice (yellowing of eyes or skin)