Men have been told to contact their GP if they notice three specific signs when using the bathroom as it could be an early sign of a deadly cancer that can take years to show any symptoms. The NHS has issued an alert particularly for black men and those over the age of 50 who may be at a higher risk.

The NHS shared on X a message about prostatecancer awareness month. It 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.”

Three key symptoms that may develop slowly over time include:

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• An increased need to pee
• Straining while you pee
• Feeling that your bladder has not fully emptied

Having these symptoms does not automatically mean you have cancer as it can be caused by a number of other issues too. In any case, these symptoms shouldn’t be ignored.

If the condition is diagnosed early enough, it can often be cured according to the NHS. Treatment will differ from person to person, and can include chemotherapy, hormone therapy or surgery among other options.

Prostate cancer is among the most commonly diagnosed cancers in men in the UK, but there is no national screening programme. Instead, there is a free blood test through the NHSwhich could detect issues with the prostate before symptoms start.

The chance of developing prostate cancer increases as you age, with most cases developing past the age of 50. Black men and those who have fathers or brothers affected by prostate cancer are also more likely to be diagnosed. Men who are worried about their prostate cancer risk are urged to speak to their GP even if they don’t have any symptoms.

Prostate cancer usually starts growing on the outer part of the prostate, meaning it does not press on the urethra and cause symptoms until it has grown significantly or spread. This can cause a number of issues when trying to pee as well as other symptoms like lower back pain, losing weight without trying or erectile dysfunction.

Cancer Research UK estimates around one in six men will get prostate cancer at some point in their lives. Around 78.9% of patients survive prostate cancer for 10 or more years.

Early diagnosis is key to getting a better prognosis. Prostate cancer isn’t linked to any preventable cases so there is no definitive way to lower your risk before developing the disease.