These red flag symptoms of cancer can only be spotted at night

Cancer is a harsh reality that, despite its grim nature, will touch the lives of nearly everyone at some point. In the UK, an alarming 1 in 2 people will be diagnosed with cancer, and around 1,000 people receive this diagnosis every day.

While this is sobering news, the outlook isn’t entirely bleak. Early detection remains key, as only half of those diagnosed will survive for 10 years or more. With this in mind, spotting cancer as early as possible can make all the difference in outcomes.

The NHS reports that 1 in 2 people will develop cancer in their lifetime, with breast, lung, prostate, and bowel cancers being the four most common types in the UK. But the risks aren’t confined to specific groups like smokers or those who consume large amounts of red meat (though both are proven to increase cancer risk). Cancer can develop in anyone, often in ways that seem unpredictable, even in otherwise healthy individuals.

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And one symptom that may only reveal itself at night is excessive sweating.

The reason some cancers trigger night sweats isn’t fully understood, but it may be linked to the body’s response to the disease. In some cases, changes in hormone levels could be a factor, while other times, excessive sweating occurs as the body tries to cool itself down after a fever caused by cancer.

Of course, night sweats aren’t always a cause for concern. They can be triggered by everyday factors like exercising before bed, drinking hot beverages, consuming too much alcohol, or simply having the heating too high.

However, if they start suddenly and without an obvious explanation, they could be a warning sign. According to Cancer Research UK, night sweats are one of 23 key red flag symptoms of cancer to be aware of.

There are 23 common symptoms of cancer to look out for according to Cancer Research UK, which are:

• Very heavy night sweating

• Fatigue

• Unexplained bleeding or bruising

• Unexplained pain or acne

• Unexplained weight loss

• An unusual lump or swelling anywhere on your body

• A new mole, or a change to a mole

• Skin changes or a sore that won't heal

• Croaky voice, hoarse voice or a cough that won't go away

• Coughing up blood

• Difficulty swallowing

• Breathlessness

• Persistent heartburn or indigestion

• Unusual changes to the size or feeling of your breast

• Persistent bloating

• Loss of appetite

• A change in bowel habit such as constipation, looser stool or going more often

• Blood in your stool

• Unexpected vaginal bleeding including after sex, between periods or post-menopause

• Blood in your urine

• Problems urinating

The NHS says about spotting cancer: "It's important to be aware of any new or worrying symptoms.

"Although it's unlikely to be cancer, it's important to speak to a GP so they can investigate. Finding cancer early means it's easier to treat.

"If your GP suspects cancer, they'll refer you to a specialist usually within 2 weeks."

Cancer Research UK adds: "There are over 200 different types of cancer that can cause many different signs and symptoms. Sometimes symptoms affect specific areas of the body, such as our tummy or skin. But signs can also be more general, and include weight loss, tiredness (fatigue) or unexplained pain.

"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."