Key warning signs of cancer you should never ignore as Chris Hoy shares shock diagnosis

Scots cycling legend Sir Chris Hoy has revealed he is being treated for cancer following a 'shock' diagnosis last year. The 47-year-old, who won six Olympic gold medals between 2004 and 2012, said he was currently undergoing treatment such as chemotherapy and 'felt fine' despite it all.His statement, which was posted on social media on Friday February 16, didn't mention which kind of cancer he had been diagnosed with - but he did say he'd had 'no symptoms'.

Although this is sometimes the case, there are a few key signs of cancer that everybody should be aware of.According to the NHS, cancer can be detected in the body through a number of different symptoms or changes, which is why it's so important to make sure you're checking yourself regularly.Although these alone may not be anything to worry about, it's worth getting your symptoms checked by a GP if you're in any way concerned.

The easier cancer is diagnosed, often the easier it is to treat, so here are a few of the key symptoms that everyone should know. Changes in bowel habits Speak to a GP if you've noticed changes in your usual bowel habits and it's lasted for three weeks or more.The type of changes to look out for include: Bleeding You should also speak to a GP if you have any unexplained bleeding, such as: Lumps Consult a doctor if you notice a lump in your breast or if you have a lump that's noticeably increasing in size elsewhere on your body.Regular checking of your breasts, underarms, groin and testicles is vital in order to spot any new lumps or changes. Moles Speak to a GP if you have a mole that:Any of these changes mean there's a chance you have melanoma, which is a serious type of skin cancer. Losing weight without trying You should also speak to a GP