Cancer symptoms in men can often be subtle and easily overlooked. Here are some common cancer symptoms in men that are sometimes ignored and mistaken for common ailments:

1.        Persistent cough or hoarseness: Could indicate lung cancer or throat cancer. Often this symptom is dismissed as a cold or allergies but can indicate lung or throat cancer if it persists.

2.        Changes in bowel habits: Diarrhea, constipation, or changes in stool consistency could be symptoms of colorectal cancer.

3.        Blood in urine or stool: Blood in urine might indicate bladder or kidney cancer, while blood in stool could be a sign of colorectal cancer. These symptoms are sometimes ignored or attributed to hemorrhoids or infections.

4.        Unexplained weight loss: Sudden weight loss without changes in diet or exercise could be a sign of several types of cancer. Weight loss sometimes can be overlooked as a positive change or stress related.

5.        Persistent pain: Chronic pain in any part of the body could be indicative of cancer, such as bone cancer or testicular cancer. This symptom might be dismissed as a result of aging or physical activity.

6.        Unusual lumps or swelling: Lumps in the breast, testicles, or lymph nodes could be a sign of cancer. Men may ignore them or feel embarrassed to seek medical advice.

7.        Difficulty swallowing: Could indicate esophageal or throat cancer. Some might be mistaken this symptom for acid reflux or a sore throat.

8.        Skin changes: New moles, changes in existing moles, or other skin changes could indicate skin cancer. Men might not pay close attention to these changes or consider them harmless.

9.        Chronic fatigue: Persistent, unexplained fatigue can be a symptom of various cancers, including leukemia. Symptoms might be dismissed because of a busy lifestyle or insufficient sleep.

10.   Frequent infections or illnesses: A weakened immune system due to leukemia or lymphoma can lead to recurrent infections. These symptoms might be considered as common infections or allergies.

11.   Difficulty urinating: Issues such as difficulty starting urination, weak urine stream, or frequent urination can be symptoms of prostate cancer. A person might be considered a normal part of aging.

12.   Persistent heartburn or indigestion: Ongoing heartburn or indigestion could indicate stomach or esophageal cancer. The symptom might be attributed to diet or stress.

13.   Unexplained bruising or bleeding: Unusual bruising or bleeding can be a sign of blood cancers such as leukemia. These symptoms might be dismissed as minor injuries or the result of physical activities.

Prevention and early detection:

·        Lifestyle changes: Quitting smoking, maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, eating a balanced diet, limiting alcohol consumption.

·        Regular screenings: Regular check-ups and cancer screenings such as PSA tests for prostate cancer, colonoscopies for colorectal cancer, skin exams for melanoma.

·        Awareness of symptoms: Being aware of and reporting any persistent or unusual symptoms to a healthcare provider.

Early detection and treatment are crucial for better outcomes, so it is important to see a healthcare provider if you experience any persistent or unusual symptoms.

Image credit: Image by StockSnap from Pixabay  (Published date July 31, 2017 Free for use under the Pixabay Content License)