Knowledge is a form of strength.
A simple, caring guide to understanding cancer, spotting the warning signs, lowering your risk and supporting the people you love.
What is cancer?
Cancer is not one disease but a group of more than 100 diseases. It starts when cells in the body begin to grow out of control, and in some cases spread to other parts of the body.
Cancer can begin almost anywhere in the body. Each type behaves differently, which is why causes, symptoms and treatments can vary so much from person to person.
- 🧬Changes in genes can cause cells to grow and divide when they shouldn't.
- ⏳These changes can build up over time, which is why risk rises with age.
- 🌍Lifestyle, environment, infections and family history can all play a role.
Good to know: many cancers can be treated successfully, especially when they are found early.
Early detection mattersKnow the warning signs
Cancer symptoms depend on where it starts, but some changes are worth paying attention to, especially if they last more than a few weeks:
- ⚖️Unexplained weight loss or tiredness that doesn't get better with rest
- 🔎A new lump, swelling or thickening anywhere on the body
- 🩹A sore that won't heal, or a new or changing mole
- 🩸Unusual bleeding or discharge
- 🚻Lasting changes in bowel or bladder habits
- 🗣️A cough or hoarseness that won't go away
- 🍽️Trouble swallowing or ongoing indigestion
- ⚡Pain that doesn't have a clear cause and doesn't go away
Most of these symptoms are caused by something other than cancer. But if a change is new, unusual or won't go away, see a doctor. Early answers bring peace of mind.
Ways to lower your risk
Not every cancer can be prevented, but healthy everyday choices can make a real difference.
Be tobacco-free
Avoiding tobacco in every form is one of the most powerful things you can do to lower your risk.
Protect your skin
Use sunscreen, seek shade and skip tanning beds to reduce the risk of skin cancer.
Move more
Regular physical activity and a healthy body weight help lower the risk of several cancers.
Eat for health
Fill up on vegetables, fruit and whole grains, and limit processed and red meat.
Limit alcohol
Less alcohol means lower risk. For cancer prevention, the less you drink the better.
Get vaccinated
The HPV and hepatitis B vaccines help protect against cancers linked to these infections.
Know your family history
Share your family's health history with your doctor so they can guide your care.
Keep up with check-ups
Regular check-ups and recommended screenings can catch problems early.
According to the World Health Organization, between 30 and 50% of cancers can be prevented by avoiding risk factors and following proven prevention strategies.
Why screening matters
Screening tests look for cancer before any symptoms appear, when it is often easier to treat. Which tests you need, and when, depends on your age, sex, health and family history.
- 🎀Breast: mammograms
- 🌸Cervical: Pap and HPV tests
- 🩺Colorectal: colonoscopy or stool-based tests
- 🫁Lung: low-dose CT scans for some people with a history of heavy smoking
- 👨Prostate: talk with your doctor about whether a PSA test is right for you
Your next step: ask your doctor which screenings are right for you and how often you need them.
Clearing up common myths
Good information helps everyone make better choices. Here are a few things people often get wrong.
Myth: Cancer is always inherited.
Fact: Only a small share of cancers (roughly 5 to 10%) are caused by inherited gene changes. Most are linked to changes that happen during a person's lifetime.
Myth: Cancer is contagious.
Fact: You can't catch cancer from someone. Some viruses, such as HPV and hepatitis B, can raise cancer risk, which is why vaccines matter.
Myth: Only older people get cancer.
Fact: Risk rises with age, but cancer can affect people of any age, including children and young adults.
Myth: A cancer diagnosis means there is no hope.
Fact: Treatments keep improving, and many people live long, full lives after a cancer diagnosis, especially when it is found early.
Myth: A positive attitude alone can cure cancer.
Fact: Hope and support matter for wellbeing, but medical treatment is what treats cancer. No one should feel they caused their illness by not being positive enough.
Awareness ribbon colors & meanings
Each ribbon color stands for a different cancer. Wear yours to honor a fighter, celebrate a survivor or remember someone you love.
How to support someone with cancer
You don't need the perfect words. Showing up, again and again, means more than you know.
- 👂Listen more than you speak, and let them lead the conversation
- 🍲Offer specific help: a meal, a ride to treatment, a load of laundry
- 📱Keep checking in, even when things seem quiet
- 🤍Respect their choices, their privacy and their pace
- 🧘If you are a caregiver, take care of yourself too
Where to find reliable support
For medical questions and emotional support, these organizations are a great place to start.
American Cancer Society
Information, patient programs and a 24/7 helpline: 1-800-227-2345.
National Cancer Institute
Trusted research-based information. Call 1-800-4-CANCER (1-800-422-6237).
This guide is for general information only
It is not medical advice and does not replace a diagnosis or treatment from a qualified healthcare professional. If you have symptoms or concerns, please talk to your doctor.
Every design starts a conversation
Wear your support, spark awareness and remind someone that they don't fight alone.
Shop the collection