Detecting cancer early significantly increases the likelihood of successful treatment, as it often prevents the disease from spreading to other parts of the body. While screenings, like mammograms and colonoscopies, are essential for detecting many types of cancer, knowing your body and recognizing changes can also be incredibly valuable. Self-exams—simple screenings you can perform at home—allow you to monitor your body for early signs of potential issues. Although these exams don’t replace medical screenings, they offer an added layer of self-awareness and health monitoring that could potentially help detect certain cancers in their early stages.Dr Supratim Bhattacharyya, Consultant - Surgical Oncology and Robotic Surgeon, Apollo Cancer Centres said, "Early detection of cancer is among the most important factors to achieve a better prognosis and long-term cure. Detecting cancer at home involves being aware of generalized cancer symptoms such as fatigue, unexplained weight loss, loss of appetite, or lasting pain. A few more specific symptoms include painless breast lump for breast cancer, bleeding with stool or unexplained Anaemia, altered bowel habits for colorectal cancer, non-healing ulcers of oral cavity cancer, size/ shape/ colour/ border asymmetry of moles, indicating skin cancer, etc. It is imperative to be vigilant and to consult a physician in doubt."Self-exams can be an empowering way to take charge of your health. They involve straightforward steps that familiarize you with your body, making it easier to notice unusual changes. Here’s a look at self-checks for four types of cancer that you can perform at home.Getting to Know Your Body: How to Perform a Self-ExamRegular self-exams can help you detect skin, oral, breast, and testicular cancers early. Learning these step-by-step techniques will guide you through what to watch for and how to inspect each part of your body thoroughly.Skin CancerAccording to the American Academy of Dermatology Association, a spot that looks different, changes, itches, or bleeds can be an early warning sign of skin cancer. If you notice any unusual skin spots, consider consulting a board-certified dermatologist for a professional evaluation. Here’s how to perform a skin self-exam:1. Examine Your Body in a Full-Length Mirror: Start by examining your front and back in a full-length mirror. Then, check the right and left sides of your body with your arms raised.2. Inspect Your Underarms, Forearms, and Palms: Bend your elbows to look at your forearms, underarms, fingernails, and palms.3. Check Legs, Toes, and Feet Soles: Look at the backs of your legs and feet, as well as the spaces between your toes, toenails, and the soles of your feet.4. Examine Your Neck and Scalp: Use a hand mirror to inspect the back of your neck and scalp. Part your hair to look more closely at your scalp.5. Review Your Back and Buttocks: With the hand mirror, examine your back and buttocks for any unusual marks or spots.Oral CancerOral cancer can be harder to detect because there are no widely recommended screening tests for the general public. However, the Mouth Cancer Foundation emphasizes that regular self-exams could save lives by catching warning signs early. It’s advisable to do a monthly check if you’re over 16 years old. Here’s a step-by-step guide:- Lips: Use your fingers to pull your upper lip up and your bottom lip down, checking inside for sores or color changes. Feel around for any lumps or changes in texture.- Gums: Gently use your fingers to feel both the inside and outside of your gums.- Cheeks: Open your mouth and pull each cheek out one at a time, inspecting for red or white patches or any tenderness.- Tongue: Pull your tongue out gently and check each side for ulcers or swelling. Lift your tongue to examine its underside.- Mouth Floor: Look under your tongue and press along the floor of your mouth to feel for lumps or swelling. Check the roof of your mouth as well.Breast Self-ExamBreast self-exams can help detect changes in breast tissue that may indicate early signs of breast cancer. Here’s how to perform both visual and manual exams:1. Visual Exam: Stand in front of a mirror with your hands on your hips. Check your breasts for any changes in size, shape, or skin texture. Lift your arms above your head and repeat.2. Manual Exam while Standing: Use your right hand to examine your left breast, pressing firmly in circular motions across all areas, including the underarm.3. Manual Exam Lying Down: Lie on your back, place a pillow under your shoulder, and use your opposite hand to feel each breast.Testicular Self-ExamTesticular cancer is one of the most common cancers among young men. A quick self-exam, especially during or after a warm shower, can help detect lumps or unusual textures early. Here’s how:1. Gently roll each testicle between your fingers, feeling for lumps or changes in size.2. Pay attention to lumps, swelling, or soreness. A painless mass or a feeling of heaviness can be early signs.If you notice any suspicious changes during a self-exam, consult your doctor. A change doesn’t necessarily mean cancer, but early detection is key to effective treatment, and follow-up tests can provide clarity and peace of mind. These self-checks, alongside routine screenings, can play a vital role in safeguarding your health.