Prostate cancer: the number one cancer affecting one in 18 men in our country, often develops without any symptoms in the early stages. However when the disease is advanced, symptoms are likely to occur that include – straining to pass urine, leaking urine, bloody urine, and bone pain. If prostate cancer is diagnosed and treated early, the prognosis is often good.
Colorectal cancer: (cancer of the colon or rectum), is the second most common cancer and it is estimated that 1 in 75 SA men will develop colorectal cancer. In early stages symptoms are not present, however when they do occur, they include a change in bowel habits, rectal bleeding, stomach pain, weakness, and weight loss.
Coming in third is lung cancer with estimates that 1 in 76 SA men will develop lung cancer. When symptoms appear, they include shortness of breath, cough, a change in sputum, chest pain, noisy breathing, hoarseness, and coughing up blood. Smoking accounts for the majority of preventable lung cancers, and the best way to prevent the disease is to not use tobacco products and avoid second-hand smoke.
The most common AIDS-related cancer world-wide, is Kaposi Sarcoma (KS) which is the fourth most prevalent cancer in South African men. Approximately 1 in 315 South African males are affected with KS which sees patches of abnormal tissue grow under the skin, in the lining of the mouth, nose, throat or in other organs.
And the fifth most common cancer in South African men is bladder cancer affecting 1 in 148 men. The largest risk factor that can be avoided is smoking, which doubles the chance of bladder cancer. No screening is available, however blood in the urine, a change in urine colour, the need to go frequently and burning pain are some of the symptoms.
Testicular cancer is common amongst young South African men aged between 15 and 39 years with one in 2 084 men affected by this cancer. Early detection improves the survival rate and the symptoms appear in both the testicles and scrotum and include lumps, swelling and pain. The testicular self-examination each month, is an easy and effective way for men to look out for any unusual or abnormal signs.
CANSA offers a unique integrated service to the public and to all people affected by cancer. It can be contacted on a toll-free number: 0800 22 66 22 or email info@cansa.org.za
