Cancer is becoming a major health concern for men in India. In 2022, nearly 6.9 lakh men were diagnosed with different types of cancer. This increasing number is worrying and highlights the need for more awareness and early detection. Factors like lifestyle changes, pollution, unhealthy diets, and genetics are contributing to this rise. Unfortunately, many cancers are detected only in their later stages, which makes treatment harder. During this Men’s Health Week, it’s important to learn about the top five cancers affecting Indian men, their symptoms, risk factors, and how to prevent them.
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The most common cancer among Indian men is oral cancer. It is mainly caused by the use of tobacco in any form—smoking, chewing, gutka, or pan masala. Drinking alcohol increases the risk even more, especially when combined with tobacco. Poor oral hygiene and constant irritation from sharp or broken teeth can also lead to oral cancer. Early signs include sores in the mouth, swelling, white or red patches that don’t heal, and trouble opening the mouth fully. The best way to prevent it is by quitting tobacco and alcohol, going for regular dental check-ups, maintaining oral hygiene, and eating a healthy diet with fruits and vegetables.
Lung cancer is another leading cause of cancer-related deaths among Indian men. While smoking is the main cause, non-smokers are also at risk due to second-hand smoke and air pollution. A constant cough that doesn’t go away for weeks, breathing problems, blood in sputum, or a sudden change in voice are warning signs. To lower the risk, avoid smoking, stay away from second-hand smoke, wear masks in polluted areas, and eat more fruits and vegetables.
Esophageal cancer (cancer of the food pipe) is also rising. A major symptom is difficulty swallowing, which starts with solids and can later include liquids. People may also experience unintentional weight loss. Smoking, alcohol, frequent acid reflux, and eating very spicy or extremely hot foods are major risk factors. If someone has swallowing issues or sudden weight loss, they should visit a doctor without delay.
Colorectal cancer (cancer of the colon or rectum) is now being seen more often in younger people in India. Poor lifestyle habits like eating too much red meat, being overweight, smoking, and drinking alcohol increase the risk. People with diseases like ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease are also more likely to develop this cancer. Symptoms include changes in bowel habits, blood or mucus in stools, and ongoing stomach pain. A healthy lifestyle, a diet rich in fruits and vegetables, regular exercise, and avoiding tobacco and alcohol can help reduce the risk.
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Stomach cancer is the fifth most common cancer in Indian men. It is hard to detect early because its symptoms—such as feeling full quickly, low appetite, weight loss, or black stools—are often confused with simple digestion issues. Infections like H. pylori, smoking, alcohol, and eating a lot of salted or spicy foods are common causes. If you have regular digestive problems, don’t ignore them—see a doctor. Eating a healthy diet and treating H. pylori infections early can help lower the risk.
Across all these cancers, one message is clear—early detection saves lives. Knowing the symptoms, going for regular check-ups, and living a healthy lifestyle can make a big difference. Quitting tobacco, cutting down on alcohol, staying active, and eating right are some of the most powerful steps men can take to protect their health. If you notice any ongoing or unusual symptoms, don’t delay—get them checked by a healthcare professional.
