A nurse is teaching a client about the seven warning signs of cancer. Which of the following signs should the nurse include as manifestations of cancer? (Select all that apply.)
Explanation & Rationale
Rationale: A. Persistent coughing or hoarseness that does not resolve can indicate lung or throat cancer. Chronic irritation of airway tissues may be an early manifestation of malignancy in the respiratory tract. B. Although it can occur with ovarian or gastrointestinal conditions, bloating is not one of the classic seven warning signs of cancer identified by the American Cancer Society. It is a nonspecific symptom and should be evaluated in context with other findings. C. A change in a wart or mole’s color, size, shape, or border may indicate skin cancer (melanoma). Early recognition of such changes is crucial for timely diagnosis and treatment. D. Persistent constipation, diarrhea, or changes in stool caliber may indicate colorectal cancer or other malignancies involving the gastrointestinal tract. E. A sore that fails to heal, particularly on the skin or oral mucosa, can be an early sign of skin or oral cancer, as malignant cells impair tissue repair and regeneration.