Recognising cancer symptoms is crucial for a timely diagnosis, yet many people dismiss subtle symptoms of the disease, unaware that they could signal an underlying disease.
Helen Bender, from Alabama, United States, was devastated to learn she had 20 tumours, all originating from a seemingly harmless mole on her back. Now she is warning others to take skin changes seriously.
"I survived stage four cancer, and it all started with a mole on my skin. So if you’ve been avoiding the dermatologist, [I] think you should make that appointment," the cancer survivor recently shared in a clip.
"These are all tumours that spread from a mole on my back.
Helen was diagnosed with stage 4 cancer
TIKTOK / HELENBENDER
"If you think skin cancer isn’t a big deal or that putting on sunscreen every day isn’t convenient, this could be you."
The estate agent had been following a gua sha trend when she first noticed a lump below her jaw.
Subsequent scans revealed Helen had multiple tumours throughout her body, with doctors initially estimating she had just six weeks to live.
"I underwent multiple surgeries, numerous scans, and several months of a type of chemotherapy called immunotherapy," she shared.
"This is obviously not fun, so let this be a sign to book that dermatology appointment and be mindful of your sun exposure this summer."
Skin cancer can spread to different parts of the body through a process known as metastasis, though non-melanoma cancers typically do not spread.
According to Cancer Research UK: "There are around 17,500 new melanoma skin cancer cases in the UK each year—that’s 48 every day."
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Skin cancer can spread to different parts of the body through metastasis
TIKTOK / HELEN BENDER
The NHS warns that a new mole or changes to an existing mole may be signs of melanoma.
"Melanomas can appear anywhere on your body, but they’re more common in areas frequently exposed to the sun," cautions the health body.
"Some rarer types can affect the eyes, soles of the feet, palms of the hands, or genitals."
As a precaution, Britons are encouraged to check their skin for any unusual changes, using a mirror or asking a partner or friend to examine hard-to-see areas.
