Dr Shaikhali M. Barodawala, Scientific and Business Head, Integrated Oncopathology, Consultant and Head, Anatomy Pathology, Global Reference Laboratory, Metropolis Healthcare Ltd., believes that Edwin Markham's quote, "For all your days, be prepared and meet them ever alike when you are the anvil, bear - when you are the hammer, strike!!", inspires us to be prepared to face the challenges life brings every day.

Cancer is a disease that causes abnormal growth of cells that can spread to other organs or tissue. It is a global health concern that impacts a person's physical and emotional health. It also causes financial stress to the patients and their families. The World Health Organisation (WHO) labels cancer as the second leading cause of death in the world.

In India, too, there have been rising cases of cancer-related deaths despite new and improved medicines and strategies in cancer treatment. According to an ICMR study, one in nine Indians is prone to developing cancer.

There has been an increase in cases of common cancers in men such as cancer of the lungs, oral cavity, prostate, stomach, liver and colorectal cancer.

However, the good news is that nearly 30% to 50% of cancer deaths are preventable. Avoiding cancer-related risk factors and following a healthy lifestyle can reduce the chances of cancer.

Cancer care not only includes treatment strategies like surgery, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, palliative care and pain management but also cancer prevention, increased awareness, timely detection and diagnosis.

Cancer symptoms are often not noticed in the early stages. An example would be the symptoms of male prostate cancer which are the least evident if you are not aware of what the possible symptoms could be. They become worse over time and reduce the chances of recovery. Therefore, staying aware of any changes in the body is important. Furthermore, consulting the doctor on noticing any symptoms of cancer in men is crucial for early diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Common Cancer Symptoms in Men

Dr Shaikhali M. Barodawala says that these are some of the common symptoms of cancer that should be watched out for among men:

Abnormal growth

An abnormal growth such as a lump in any part of the body including the chest, testicles, lymph nodes, muscles and soft tissues like tendons and ligaments may be a sign of cancer in men. Consulting the doctor at the earliest is advisable.

Weight loss without trying

While unexplained weight loss may indicate any other health condition, it is important to consult the doctor. Losing weight without changing the diet or without exercising could be a cancer symptom and a sign of stomach, pancreatic, oesophagal or lung cancer.

Persistent pain

Some bone cancers and cancers involving bones can cause intense pain and weakness. Therefore, experiencing constant and severe pain like a headache or back pain or stomach pain or pain in any part of the body may be a sign of an abnormality and requires timely check-ups.

Abnormalities in the oral cavity

The appearance of ulcers, sores or lumps in the oral cavity (mouth, lips, the lining in the lips and cheeks, the front of the tongue, the gums, the roof of the mouth and the floor of the mouth under the tongue) should be reported to the doctor. People consuming tobacco or smoking cigarettes must especially stay aware of such abnormal growth and consult the doctor at the earliest.

Constant coughing/hoarse voice

Constant coughing, hoarseness of voice, shortness of breath and coughing out blood are lung cancer symptoms. Persistent symptoms such as these are alarming and should be reported to the doctor. They will order cancer tests to detect the reason behind these conditions and prescribe appropriate treatment.

Difficulty in swallowing, indigestion, stomach pain and changes in bowel movement

Abdominal pain followed by vomiting is an indication of bowel conditions. If abdominal pain is also followed by blood in stools, diarrhoea or constipation, it is advisable to consult the doctor for evaluation. Besides indigestion, experiencing pain or burning sensation in the throat or chest while swallowing is a sign of throat or stomach cancer and needs to be checked in time.

Abnormal bladder pattern

Changes in bladder pattern including urinary incontinence, blood in urine, discomfort while passing urine or recurring urinary infections are symptoms of bladder and male prostate cancer. Consulting a doctor is crucial to avoid complications.

Unexplained exhaustion

Exhaustion despite adequate sleep and rest and lack of energy without physical exertion are also causes for concern. Patients must consult their doctors on experiencing these cancer symptoms.

To sum up

Consulting the doctor on experiencing any of the above-mentioned symptoms of cancer in men is critical. It will help in the early detection of the disease. It will also enable the doctor to plan the ideal line of treatment. Furthermore, it will help the patient plan strategies for cancer care with their doctor which will improve their chances of recovery.