Health specialists have highlighted key warning signs linked to a form of cancer that can be difficult to pick up early.
The NHS has issued a reminder on social media about prostate cancer, noting that it may not be noticed for a long time because it often grows slowly.
Because early symptoms can be mild or easy to overlook, doctors stress that any change in bathroom habits should be checked without delay.
Writing a post for prostate cancer awareness month, the NHS said: “Prostate cancer often develops slowly, so there may be no symptoms for many years, but it’s important to know what to look out for. But if something doesn’t feel right, don’t wait – contact your GP practice. Early diagnosis can save lives.”
Prostate cancer typically starts on the outer area of the prostate. As a result, it may not affect the urethra (the tube that carries urine from the bladder to the penis) until the cancer becomes larger or spreads.
In its warning, the NHS pointed to three main symptoms people should be aware of.
The NHS also noted there are additional symptoms that may be worth paying attention to.
Prostate cancer often develops slowly, so there may be no symptoms for many years, but it’s important to know what to look out for.
But if something doesn’t feel right, don’t wait – contact your GP practice. Early diagnosis can save lives.#ProstateCancerAwarenessMonth
— NHS (@NHSuk) March 1, 2026
Prostate cancer is most frequently diagnosed in older men, particularly those aged 75 and over. Overall risk can vary based on factors such as age, family history, lifestyle, and other health conditions.
In the United States, the American Cancer Society estimates that more than 36,000 men could die from prostate cancer this year, while a further 333,830 are expected to receive a diagnosis.
Professor Prabhakar Rajan, a consultant urologist and robotic surgeon in London at University College London Hospitals (UCLH) and Barts Health, told The Mirror he wants more men to proactively ask their GP practice about Prostate Cancer Screening (PSA) tests to help them understand their individual risk.
“Men need to be able to have an open and honest conversation with their doctor about the PSA test,” he said.
Prof Rajan added: “This is important because prostate cancer is often symptom-free until it has escaped the prostate, at which point it is harder to treat.”