Cancer in Men

Cancer of the lung

Cancer of the lung is the most common form of cancer in the US and the leading cause of cancer death in men. Nine out of 10 men who die from lung cancer are or were cigarette smokers. If you quit smoking, you are less likely to get lung cancer.

• Never ignore a cough that doesn't go away or coughing up blood. Tell your healthcare provider about it.
• If you smoke, quit. Talk to your provider if you need help quitting.

Cancer of the larynx (voice box)

Cancer of the larynx is seven times more common in men than in women. It occurs mainly in men in their 50s and 60s, often in heavy smokers and heavy drinkers.

• Don't ignore sudden hoarseness or other voice changes. Tell your healthcare provider about it.
• If you smoke or drink heavily, quit. Talk to your provider if you need help quitting.

Cancer of the prostate

Cancer of the prostate is the second most common cancer in men in the US. Most men who get prostate cancer are over age 55. The peak age at onset is 70. Untreated, it is a fatal disease, but it is often slow-growing, so older men may die from causes other than their cancer.

• Take advantage of PSA screening tests for prostate cancer.
• Have an annual physical checkup that includes a rectal examination.

Cancer of the testes

Cancer of the testes affects mainly young and middle aged men. Men with a history of undescended testicles as boys are at higher risk to develop this cancer.

• Do a monthly testicular self-exam in the shower or bath. Feel for lumps or changes in size.
• See your provider if you notice a lump, swelling, or a heavy sensation in your testicle. Also see your provider if you have a dull ache in the lower abdomen or groin.

Cancer of the colon and rectum

Cancer of the colon and rectum usually strikes men over age 50. Men who have a family history of this cancer or who have had ulcerative colitis or other bowel problems are at greater risk of developing cancer of the colon and rectum.

• Tell your provider about any change in your bowel habits or change in the way your stool looks.
• Eat a healthy, low-meat, low-fat, high-fiber diet.

Skin cancer

Most skin cancers appear after age 50. They are more common in people with blond or red hair, blue eyes, and fair skin that freckles easily. Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation, usually from strong sunshine, appears to increase the risk for skin cancers.

• Cover up or apply sunscreen when you are out in strong sunshine.
• Take advantage of any skin cancer screening programs in your area.
• Check your skin regularly for lumps or areas that change in size, shape, or color.