Warning signs — see a doctor if any lasts more than 2–3 weeks
- A mouth ulcer, white or red patch that doesn’t heal in 2 weeks
- A lump in the breast or armpit, or change in breast shape or skin
- Bleeding after sex, between periods or after menopause
- A lump anywhere that keeps growing
- Long-lasting cough or hoarse voice (over 3 weeks), coughing blood
- Difficulty swallowing, or unexplained weight loss
- Blood in stool or urine, or a big change in bowel habits
- A mole that changes size, shape or colour
These signs are usually caused by something else, not cancer — but only a doctor can check. Don’t wait.
Prevention: what really works
- Quit tobacco in every form — cigarette, bidi, gutkha, khaini — and avoid alcohol
- HPV vaccine for girls (free for 14-year-olds at government facilities)
- Hepatitis B vaccine
- Stay active, keep a healthy weight, eat more vegetables, fruit and whole grains
- Protect skin from strong sun; avoid smoke from chulha in closed rooms
Trusted help in India and abroad
Free screening (age 30+)
Free mouth, breast and cervical cancer screening at Ayushman Arogya Mandirs, PHCs, CHCs and district hospital NCD clinics.
nhm.gov.inAyushman Bharat PM-JAY
Health cover up to ₹5 lakh per family per year for eligible families, including cancer treatment. Helpline 14555.
pmjay.gov.inIn the COSSLIVES app
- Your personal screening plan by age and family history
- Tobacco-free day tracker
- Questions to ask your doctor
- AI answers that always show a trusted source — never a diagnosis
Questions
Where can I get free cancer screening in India?
Adults aged 30 and above can get free screening for mouth, breast and cervical cancer at Ayushman Arogya Mandirs, primary and community health centres and district hospital NCD clinics.
Does early detection really help?
Yes. Many cancers, such as mouth, breast and cervical cancer, can be treated far more successfully when found early.
Can COSSLIVES tell me if I have cancer?
No. COSSLIVES never diagnoses. It helps you know the warning signs, plan screening and reach trusted doctors and hospitals.
How can I quit gutkha or smoking?
Call the free National Tobacco Quit Line on 1800 112 356. In COSSLIVES you can also track tobacco-free days.
Information only, not a diagnosis. Always follow your doctor's advice. In an emergency call 112.
Based on guidance from the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, National Health Mission and WHO. Last updated 2026-11-11 · Doctor review: in progress
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