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Five Cancers, One September: A Guide

Writer: Hailey Larson
Hailey Larson
Sep 12
3 min read

In the world of cancer advocacy, September is a heavy-hitter. It isn't just dedicated to one type of diagnosis; it is actually the official awareness month for five different categories of cancer.  

To give each of these the spotlight they deserve, let’s look at what September represents, the common warning signs to watch for, and how early detection saves lives.


1. Childhood Cancer Awareness (Go Gold)  


The gold ribbon shines a light on our bravest and youngest warriors. While pediatric cancer is relatively rare compared to adult cancers, it remains the leading cause of death by disease for children in the United States.  

  • Signs to Watch For: Unexplained and persistent weight loss, ongoing bone or joint pain (often dismissed as growing pains), a sudden lump or swelling, easy bruising or bleeding, and frequent or long-lasting fevers.  

  • The Reality: Unlike adult cancers, childhood cancers are rarely linked to lifestyle or environmental factors, making awareness and heavily funded research our primary tools.

2. Blood Cancers (Leukemia, Lymphoma, & Myeloma)  


Blood cancers affect the body’s ability to produce healthy blood cells and fight off infections. A new diagnosis occurs every three minutes in the U.S. alone.  






  • Signs to Watch For: Chronic fatigue that rest won't fix, night sweats, swollen but painless lymph nodes (in the neck, armpits, or groin), and frequent infections.

  • Screening and Detection: There are no routine screening tests for blood cancers. They are typically caught through routine complete blood count (CBC) blood tests at regular physicals. If you feel persistently "off," always ask your doctor for a standard blood panel.

3. Gynecologic Cancers (Ovarian, Uterine, & Cervical)  

September focuses deeply on the female reproductive system. Ovarian cancer, in particular, is often called a "silent" disease because its early symptoms are incredibly subtle.  




  • Signs to Watch For: Persistent abdominal bloating, pelvic or belly pain, feeling full quickly when eating, and abnormal vaginal bleeding.  

  • Screening and Detection: A vital piece of medical knowledge is that a Pap smear does not detect ovarian or uterine cancer—it only screens for cervical cancer. For ovarian and uterine health, it’s critical to listen to your body and request a pelvic ultrasound if vague abdominal symptoms last for more than a few weeks.


4. Prostate Cancer (Light Blue)  


Prostate cancer is the second most common cancer among men worldwide. Caught early, it has an exceptionally high survival rate, which makes routine checkups a must.  




  • Signs to Watch For: Difficulty urinating, a weak or interrupted urine flow, frequent urination (especially at night), and discomfort in the pelvic area.  

  • Screening and Detection: Men over 50 (or over 45 if there is a family history) should speak with their doctor about a simple routine blood test called a PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) test.  


5. Thyroid Cancer (Pink, Purple, and Teal)


The thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland at the base of the neck that regulates your metabolism. Thyroid cancer diagnoses have risen significantly over the past few decades, largely because imaging technology has gotten better at spotting them early.



  • Signs to Watch For: A visible lump or nodule in the front of the neck, trouble swallowing or breathing, and a persistent, unexplained cough or hoarseness in the voice.

  • Screening and Detection: Doctors can often feel a thyroid nodule during a routine physical neck examination. If a lump is suspected, an ultrasound is typically the next step.


The Power of Knowing Your Normal

With so many awareness campaigns happening simultaneously, it can feel overwhelming. But the core message across all five of these categories is identical: know your normal, and advocate for yourself.


If you notice a symptom that persists for more than two to three weeks, write it down and make an appointment with your care provider. Early detection changes everything—and sharing this knowledge with your friends and family ensures that no one fights these battles alone.

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