A type of cancer can develop for years without clear symptoms. This means many people may not notice the illness until much later. Health authorities now say that even small changes in bathroom habits can be important warning signs that should be checked by a doctor.
Cancer can develop slowly
According to the NHS, prostate cancer often grows very slowly. Because of this, the disease may be present for many years without obvious symptoms. This is why it is important to know the signs that may appear over time.
Three key signs
The NHS has highlighted three main symptoms that men should be aware of when it comes to bathroom habits. These include needing to urinate more often, straining when urinating, and feeling that the bladder has not fully emptied.
Needing to urinate more often
One possible warning sign is an increased need to go to the bathroom. If someone suddenly needs to urinate more frequently than usual, it may be a change worth discussing with a doctor.
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Straining during urination
Another symptom can be difficulty when trying to urinate. If it becomes harder to start or maintain urination, experts say it should be checked by a medical professional.
Feeling the bladder is not empty
Some men may feel that their bladder is still full even after using the bathroom. According to the NHS, this sensation can be an important symptom to be aware of.
Weak urine flow
Other symptoms may also appear alongside the main warning signs. One of these is a weak urine stream, where the flow of urine becomes slower or weaker than normal.
Stop start urination
Another possible symptom is urine that stops and starts during a single bathroom visit. This change can sometimes signal issues affecting the urinary system.
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Night time urination
Frequently needing to urinate during the night can also be a possible sign. If someone begins waking up regularly to use the bathroom, it may be something to monitor.
Additional symptoms
The NHS also lists several other possible symptoms linked to prostate cancer. These include erectile dysfunction, blood in urine or semen, and pain in the lower back.
Unexplained weight loss
Unintentional weight loss can also be a warning sign. Losing weight without trying may sometimes indicate an underlying health issue.
Most common in older men
Prostate cancer most often affects older men. According to the NHS, it is most commonly diagnosed in men aged 75 or older.
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Large number of cases
The American Cancer Society estimates that more than 333,000 men in the United States will be diagnosed with prostate cancer this year. More than 36,000 men are also expected to die from the disease.
Doctor encourages testing
Professor Prabhakar Rajan from University College London Hospitals told The Mirror that men should speak openly with their doctor about PSA screening tests.
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