India, June 26 -- We often think of cancer symptoms as sudden and dramatic, like severe pain or a visible lump. But the reality is that many cancers start silently. They often mimic everyday illnesses, which can lead to delayed diagnoses. While there is no need to panic over every ache, you should never ignore persistent or unexplained bodily changes. In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Sameer Khatri, principal director, medical oncology, Max Super Speciality Hospital, Patparganj, shared cancer symptoms that people often dismiss as stress, ageing or minor infections.

Dr Sameer highlighted that a lingering cough is usually just a viral infection, allergies, or pollution. However, if it lasts longer than three weeks, brings up blood, or ...