Prostate cancer is caused by the growth of a tumor in the prostate gland. It is one of the most common types of cancers and affects 2 in 5 men over 50 years of age in the country. Identifying the early warning signs of prostate cancer is an effective way of diagnosing the problem and getting it treated at the earliest. So, here are some common warning signs that men should know about, especially if they have a family history of prostate cancer.

Frequent urination
This is an early warning sign of prostate cancer that is often ignored, especially if the person has diabetes and often visits the toilet more than usual. The growth of a tumor can increase pressure on the bladder and lead to an increased urge to urinate. If this symptom persists and worsens over time, chances are that the first stage of prostate cancer is the cause.

Interrupted flow of urine
In most cases, an increased urge to urinate is accompanied by a weak or interrupted urine flow. And even if a person ignores the former sign, the latter is certainly one of the early warning signs of prostate cancer and should not be ignored. An interrupted urine flow means not only less urine but also the need to strain to empty the bladder.

Blood in the urine
Traces of blood in the urine is also a sign of prostate cancer. This is also among the early signs because a patient might not feel the increased urge to urinate at all sometimes. Instead, they may straightaway notice blood in their urine. When this symptom manifests, men must immediately consult a doctor for further tests to determine the cause.

The onset of erectile dysfunction
Prostate cancer is not so common before the age of 40, but if a man has a genetic history of prostate cancer, he might be affected quite early too. The onset of erectile dysfunction is also one of the early warning signs of prostate cancer in younger men. Men who are otherwise sexually active with no reproductive issues will also have difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection if it is a sign of prostate cancer.

Pain during urination
This is an early sign for sure, but it is much less common in prostate cancer patients. Some prostate cancer patients experience pain, discomfort, or a burning sensation while urinating, but it is not a standalone symptom and is accompanies by one or more of the other signs mentioned here.

Knowing about these early warning signs of prostate cancer will help men and their family members act fast and approach a doctor for a timely diagnosis to increase the chances of successful treatment.