Common warning signs of cancer in men
A man should see a doctor if any of these symptoms last more than a few weeks:
- Unexplained weight loss
- Persistent fatigue
- A lump or swelling anywhere in the body
- Blood in urine, stool, or cough
- Persistent cough or chest pain
- Difficulty swallowing
- Changes in bowel habits
- Frequent urination or weak urine flow
- Non-healing sores
- Persistent pain, especially in bones
- Changes in moles or skin lesions
Common cancers in men and early signs
Prostate cancer
Common in older men.
Possible signs:
- Frequent urination, especially at night
- Weak urine stream
- Blood in urine or semen
- Pelvic discomfort
Doctors may use:
- PSA blood test
- Prostate examination
- MRI or biopsy if needed
Testicular cancer
More common in younger men.
Possible signs:
- Lump or swelling in a testicle
- Heaviness in the scrotum
- Dull ache in lower abdomen
Men can do monthly self-checks after a warm shower.
Lung cancer
Strongly linked to smoking and tobacco exposure.
Possible signs:
- Persistent cough
- Coughing blood
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pain
Oral cancer
Important in India because of tobacco chewing and smoking.
Possible signs:
- Mouth ulcer that does not heal
- White or red patches in the mouth
- Difficulty chewing or swallowing
Colorectal cancer
Possible signs:
- Blood in stool
- Constipation or diarrhea lasting weeks
- Abdominal pain
- Unexplained anemia
Screening tests for men
Depending on age and risk:
- Colonoscopy or stool tests for colorectal cancer
- PSA testing for prostate cancer
- Low-dose CT scan for high-risk smokers
- Oral examinations for tobacco users
Risk factors
Higher risk with:
- Smoking or chewing tobacco
- Alcohol use
- Family history of cancer
- Obesity
- Poor diet and inactivity
- Exposure to chemicals or pollution
Important point
Many cancer symptoms can also come from non-cancer conditions. Persistent or unusual symptoms should be medically evaluated rather than self-diagnosed.
