Irish men are being encouraged to make themselves aware of the early warning signs of cancer.

According to the Irish Cancer Society (ICS), some 10,000 men are diagnosed with the disease every year in Ireland. However, the earlier cancer is diagnosed, the better the chance of survival.

"It's important to be aware of what is going on in your body and what is normal for you. Then you can spot any changes that could be a sign of cancer and take action," commented ICS cancer prevention manager, Kevin O'Hagan.

He pointed out that some men avoid seeking medical advice because they are ‘worried about what the doctor might find or they are afraid of wasting the doctor's time'.

"Chances are it won't be cancer, but if it is, the sooner it is detected, the more treatment options are available and the better your chance of survival," he emphasised.

For example, people diagnosed with stage four bowel cancer have just a 10% chance of survival over the next five years. However, those diagnosed at stage one have a 95% chance of survival.

The ICS called on men to become familiar with what is normal for their bodies and if anything out of the ordinary is found, to visit their doctor.

"There are more than 200 different types of cancer, each with different symptoms. Many of the possible symptoms of cancer can also be caused by other, much less serious things. It is so important to know what's normal for you and see your doctor about any unexplained, persistent or unusual changes," Mr O'Hagan said.

He noted that while cancer survival rates among men have improved in recent years, ‘we want to see these rates increase even further in the coming years'.

The ICS said that the 10 early warning signs that men should not ignore are:
-New growths or lumps on the skin
-A bruise or sore that does not heal
-A mole that changes size, shape or colour, or that bleeds in unusual circumstances
-A cough or hoarseness that lasts longer than three weeks
-Indigestion or problems swallowing
-A change in bladder or bowel habits for no apparent reason
-Shortness of breath
-Loss of appetite
-Unexplained tiredness or weight loss
-Blood where it normally would not be, such as in urine or faeces.

The call from the ICS came as part of Men's Health Week, which is running until June 21.

If you would like to speak to a specialist cancer nurse, call the ICS's National Cancer Helpline on 1800 200 700.