Cancer is one of the leading causes of death worldwide, yet many people still overlook its early warning signs. What makes cancer particularly dangerous is that, in its early stages, it often causes no pain. As a result, many patients delay seeking medical help until the disease has advanced — sometimes too far for effective treatment. However, your body gives subtle clues, especially during something as routine as using the toilet. Experts warn that certain symptoms during urination or defecation could be signs of serious underlying health issues, including cancer. Here are eight signs you should never ignore.

1. Blood in the stool or urine.
Seeing blood in the toilet bowl is alarming for a reason. While it may be caused by something less serious like hemorrhoids or a urinary tract infection, it can also be an early sign of colon, bladder, or kidney cancer. Bright red blood might point to bleeding in the lower digestive tract, while darker, tarry stools may indicate bleeding higher up.

2. Persistent constipation or diarrhea.
Everyone experiences occasional digestive upset, but if you’ve had constipation or diarrhea for more than a few weeks, it's time to see a doctor. Persistent changes in bowel habits can be an early indicator of colorectal cancer.

3. Unexplained weight loss.
If you are losing weight without trying — especially alongside changes in toilet habits — this could be a warning sign. Cancer can alter metabolism or block nutrient absorption, leading to sudden, unexplained weight loss.

4. A constant feeling of needing to use the bathroom.
If you always feel the urge to urinate or have a bowel movement, but little to nothing comes out, this could suggest a blockage or tumor in the urinary or digestive system. It might also be accompanied by discomfort or cramping.

5. Difficulty urinating or pain during urination.
Pain, a weak stream, or trouble starting and stopping urination can be signs of prostate cancer in men, or bladder cancer in both men and women. These symptoms are often mistaken for urinary tract infections, but if they persist, they should be evaluated further.

6. Narrow or pencil-thin stools.
This is a lesser-known but significant sign. If your stool has become consistently thin or ribbon-like, it could mean that a tumor is partially blocking the colon. While this symptom can also result from diet or stress, persistent changes require investigation.

7. Fatigue and a constant feeling of weakness.
While fatigue is a common complaint, cancer-related fatigue doesn’t improve with rest. When combined with other toilet-related symptoms, it may indicate internal bleeding or nutrient loss caused by a tumor.

8. Mucus in stool.
Mucus naturally lines the intestines, but large amounts of it in your stool — especially if accompanied by blood or changes in consistency — can be an early sign of colorectal cancer or other gastrointestinal issues.

Many of these signs can be caused by less serious health problems, but the key is not to ignore them — especially when they persist. Early detection is critical in the fight against cancer. When caught in its early stages, many types of cancer, including colorectal and bladder cancer, can be treated effectively, and even cured.

Doctors stress that embarrassment or fear should never prevent someone from getting checked. Your body is constantly sending signals — especially during moments as routine as using the bathroom. Listening to those signals and acting early could save your life.

Don’t be complacent. If you experience any of the above signs for more than two weeks, consult a healthcare professional immediately. Prevention and early diagnosis are the strongest weapons we have against cancer.