The strange change in fingers that can warn of one of the deadliest cancers

Detecting cancer early can mean the difference between life and death. And in the case oflung cancer —one of the most deadly forms of the disease—a strange physical change could be a key warning sign: swelling of the fingertips , known as " clubbed fingers."

This symptom, which does not directly affect the respiratory system, appears on the tips of the fingers or toes. It is characterized by a visible widening and pronounced curvature of the nails. According to a study led by Dr. Malay Sarkar , a lung cancer specialist in India, this phenomenon occurs in between 5 and 15% of patients diagnosed with this disease.

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" Clubbed fingers appear to occur in stages , starting at the base of the nail, which becomes soft and spongy," Dr. Sarkar told the Daily Mail . He added that the change typically affects both hands , causing reddening of the skin around the nail (erythema) and an increase in the angle between the nail bed and the cuticle, causing the nail to curl more.

Although this process can take years to develop, Sarkar warned that in cases with complications—such as lung infections—progression can be much faster. According to the study, nearly 90% of cases of clubbing (the clinical name for the symptom) are related to lung cancer.

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Doctors believe this physical change is caused by substances released by certain lung tumors that inflame the bones in the fingers , as well as by harmful chemicals that stimulate cancer development.

When unusual symptoms like this appear, specialists urge immediate consultation with a healthcare professional . Early detection can make a difference in the treatment of lung cancer, which often doesn't present respiratory symptoms until it is very advanced.