Most men are reluctant to talk about cancer. It’s a scary word and no one wants to think about it, especially if they don’t have any symptoms. The fact is, however, that cancers affecting men are quite common. In this blog post, we will discuss the different types of cancers that can affect men and some of the risk factors involved. We will also explain about screening tests and offer some basic cancer prevention tips. So please read on and learn what you need to know about cancers affecting men!
Common Cancers in Men
Prostate Cancer
The most common type of cancer affecting men is prostate cancer. According to the National Cancer Institute, there are approximately 268,490 new cases of prostate cancer diagnosed annually. Prostate cancer usually affects older men and the risk factors include family history, age, and ethnicity.
It is recommended to start screening for prostate cancer around the age of 50 for men of average risk. Those at high risk are recommended to start screenings between the ages of 40 and 45. Screening for prostate cancer usually involves a digital rectal exam and a PSA test.
Lung Cancer
Lung cancer is the second most common type of cancer affecting men. There are approximately 236,740 new cases of lung cancer diagnosed annually. The risk factors for lung cancer include smoking, exposure to secondhand smoke, and asbestos exposure.
Screening for lung cancer usually begins around the age of 50 for people who have a history of smoking or who are current smokers. A yearly low-dose CT scan (LDCT) can be performed, however certain parameters must be met. The best way to prevent lung cancer is to quit smoking and avoid secondhand smoke exposure.
Colorectal Cancer
Colorectal cancer is the third most common type of cancer affecting men. There are approximately 151,030 new cases diagnosed annually. The risk factors for colorectal cancer include age, family history, obesity, and a diet high in red and processed meats.
Screening for colorectal cancer usually begins around the age of 45. There are several screening tests that can be performed, including a colonoscopy, sigmoidoscopy, stool tests, and CT colonography, so you will need to talk with your doctor to determine which screening test is right for you.
Skin Cancer
Skin cancer is the fourth most common type of cancer affecting men. There are approximately 99,780 new cases diagnosed annually. The risk factors for skin cancer include exposure to UV radiation from sunlight, artificial ultraviolet light such as tanning beds, having light skin, and family history.
Screening for skin cancer usually involves a visual exam by a doctor or dermatologist. If you have any suspicious moles or spots on your skin, it is important to have them checked out. You can also perform regular self-exams at home.
Cancer Prevention Tips
While certain cancers have specific prevention strategies, there are some basic things that you can do to increase the overall risk of developing any type of cancer. These include:
- Avoid tobacco products altogether or quit if you currently use them
- Limit your exposure to UV radiation by avoiding excessive sun exposure and using sunscreen
- Eat a healthy diet that is high in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains and low in red and processed meats
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Exercise regularly
- Limit your alcohol intake
- Know your medical history, family history, and risks
- Get regular checkups and follow guidelines for screenings
In Conclusion
In this blog post, we have discussed the four most common types of cancer affecting men: prostate cancer, lung cancer, colorectal cancer, and skin cancer. We have also provided information on risk factors, screening tests, and prevention tips. We hope that this blog post has been informative and helpful! If you have any questions or concerns, please talk to your doctor.
