Teen cancer warning: 19-year-old’s neck and shoulder pain revealed hidden tumour

Unexplained neck and shoulder pain, often brushed off as stress or poor posture, can sometimes signal serious health issues, including cancer. This was the case for 19-year-old Hanna Bordage from Canada, whose aches were an early sign of late-stage Hodgkin lymphoma. Along with night sweats and unusual fatigue, these subtle symptoms initially went unnoticed, showing how easily early warning signs can be missed. Hanna’s story is a vital reminder: unexplained or recurring pain in teens and young adults should never be ignored, and seeking timely medical evaluation can be lifesaving.Persistent aches in the neck, shoulders, or other areas of the body are often dismissed as stress, posture issues, or fatigue. However, these minor pains can sometimes signal more serious conditions, including certain types of cancer. Unexplained pain, especially when it appears with other unusual symptoms, should never be ignored. In an interview with People, Hanna Bordage, a Canada-based woman diagnosed with cancer at 19, shared her experience to raise awareness. She initially thought her persistent neck and shoulder pain was due to lifestyle or environmental changes. “I remember thinking, ‘I wish I could figure out what's wrong with my neck,’” Hanna said. She noticed that drinking alcohol triggered sharp pains in her neck and shoulders within minutes, a symptom she hadn’t associated with serious illness.Alongside her neck pain, Hanna experienced frequent night sweats, which she initially attributed to warmer dorm room temperatures. These subtle symptoms, combined with unexplained fatigue, can sometimes be early indicators of cancer. Persistent night sweats, ongoing tiredness, or unusual fevers should prompt medical evaluation, as early detection is critical to successful treatment.Healthcare providers recommend that individuals track symptoms that don’t resolve over time. While most aches and fatigue are harmless, consistent or worsening signs should never be ignored. Early attention can significantly improve treatment outcomes.Hanna’s path to diagnosis began after a minor head injury led her to see a doctor. A full-body scan revealed a heart murmur, prompting further tests, including an echocardiogram, electrocardiogram, and MRI. These revealed a 12-centimetre tumour near her heart. Hanna was diagnosed with late-stage Hodgkin lymphoma.According to the American Cancer society, common symptoms of Hodgkin lymphoma and other cancers include swollen lymph nodes (sometimes causing pain when moving or drinking), unexplained weight loss, persistent fatigue, night sweats, and general malaise. Hanna’s story highlights how subtle, often overlooked signs—like neck and shoulder pain—can indicate serious conditions that require urgent attention.Hanna underwent six months of chemotherapy and recently celebrated her two-year “cancerversary.” She documented her journey on social media to raise awareness: “I wanted to show people that you can go through things that completely terrify you, and you can continue to be the positive, optimistic version of yourself.”Her experience underscores the importance of early detection and listening to your body. Awareness of symptoms such as chronic pain, night sweats, fatigue, or unusual swelling can lead to earlier diagnosis and better outcomes. Public education and personal storytelling, like Hanna’s, help others recognise warning signs and seek timely medical advice.By combining personal stories with general health guidance, readers can better understand the importance of monitoring subtle changes in their bodies. Routine check-ups, awareness of unusual symptoms, and timely consultation with healthcare professionals are essential steps in protecting your health and spreading cancer awareness.Disclaimer: This article is for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider regarding any medical condition or lifestyle change.Also Read: 8 serious side effects of excessive ORS on your brain, kidneys, and overall health