Knowing what is normal for you and your body is important.
If you know what’s normal for you, it’ll be easier to notice when something’s different.
Often when people notice something different about themselves, they don’t think much of it. This often happens as people get older, because they expect their bodies to start changing and behaving differently.
But don’t be tempted to put something unusual down to ‘getting older’ before you’ve told your doctor, clinic nurse or Aboriginal health worker – let them know what you’ve noticed, even if you’re not concerned by it. Chances are it is nothing to worry about, but it’s better to be on the safe side.
If you notice any unexplained or long lasting changes, it’s important to get it checked out by your doctor, clinic nurse or health worker.
If it is something serious, finding it early and getting treatment started can make a real difference.
There are more than 200 different types of cancer and they can cause many different symptoms. Although experts have agreed on some of the most important symptoms to look out for, it’s not possible to know all of them. That’s why knowing what’s normal for you is important. It means you’re more likely to recognise something different about yourself.