Cancer is fast becoming a serious health issue for Indian men. Changing lifestyles, increasing stress, high pollution levels, and habits like smoking and chewing tobacco are major causes. Many men ignore early symptoms or delay medical help, making it harder to treat the disease when it is finally diagnosed.
A 2023 study published in the Indian Journal of Medical Research estimated more than 14.6 lakh new cancer cases in 2022. Experts predict a 13% rise by 2025. These numbers highlight the urgent need for awareness, early detection, and better healthcare access.
Understanding the most common types of cancer in Indian men can help save lives. Here are the five cancers most often diagnosed among them:
1. Oral Cavity Cancer (Mouth Cancer)
Oral cavity cancer is the most frequently diagnosed cancer in Indian men. It begins in the mouth and can affect the lips, tongue, gums, roof of the mouth, and inner cheeks.
The main causes are:
- Tobacco use (both smoking and chewing)
- Alcohol consumption
- Infection with Human Papillomavirus (HPV)
Common Symptoms:
- Sores in the mouth that don’t heal
- Lumps or thick patches in the mouth
- White or red patches on the gums or tongue
If caught early, oral cancer can be treated successfully through surgery, radiation, or chemotherapy. But many cases go unnoticed until they are advanced.
2. Lung Cancer
Lung cancer is a leading cause of cancer-related deaths globally, including in India. It usually starts in the cells lining the lungs and is often linked to smoking—responsible for around 85% of all cases.
Key Symptoms:
- Constant cough
- Chest pain
- Coughing up blood
- Shortness of breath
- Tiredness
Treatment depends on the stage and type of lung cancer. Options include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, and newer targeted therapies.
3. Oesophageal Cancer
Oesophageal cancer starts in the oesophagus—the food pipe that connects the throat to the stomach. This cancer ranks third in frequency among Indian men. It develops when abnormal cells grow out of control in the lining of the oesophagus.
Common Symptoms:
- Trouble swallowing
- Sudden weight loss
- Pain or burning in the chest
Risk factors include tobacco use, heavy drinking, and acid reflux. Treatment varies based on the cancer’s stage and may involve surgery, radiation, or chemotherapy.
4. Colorectal Cancer (Colon and Rectum Cancer)
Colorectal cancer forms in the colon or rectum and often starts as a small polyp. These polyps can be removed before they turn into cancer. According to the WHO, it’s the third most common cancer worldwide and the second leading cause of cancer deaths.
Watch for Symptoms Like:
- Long-lasting changes in bowel habits
- Blood in the stool
- Belly pain or cramps
- Fatigue or sudden weight loss
Lifestyle changes, early screenings, and polyp removal can greatly reduce the risk. If caught early, treatment is more likely to succeed.
5. Stomach Cancer (Gastric Cancer)
Stomach cancer starts in the lining of the stomach. The most common form is adenocarcinoma, which begins in the gland cells of the stomach’s inner layer. Over time, the tumour can spread to nearby organs if not treated.
Early Warning Signs:
- Constant indigestion or heartburn
- Feeling full quickly after eating
- Bloating or stomach pain
- Nausea
These symptoms are often mistaken for other stomach problems, so many patients are diagnosed late. Treatment includes surgery and chemotherapy, and results are better when caught early.
Conclusion
Cancer can change everything, not only for the patient but also for their loved ones. In Indian men, cancers of the mouth, lungs, oesophagus, colon, and stomach are the most common. Many of these are linked to lifestyle choices like tobacco use and poor diet. The good news? Most of these cancers are preventable and treatable if detected early.
Regular check-ups, noticing strange symptoms, and healthier habits can make a big difference. Taking care of your health today can protect your future tomorrow.
