Consumer Focus: Men's Health This is an archived document.
What Men Should Know About Cancer
In Part 1, FCIC discussed things you can do to improve your chances of avoiding heart disease. In this edition, we’re discussing the most common form of cancer in the U.S. and other cancers that have high mortality rates among American males.
Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the U.S. The three major types are the highly curable basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas and the more serious malignant melanoma. When the 2004 statistics are available, the American Cancer Society (ACS) believes that about 1 million new cases of basal cell or squamous cell carcinoma and about 59,350 new cases of malignant melanoma will have been diagnosed. In addition, skin cancer will likely have claimed the lives of approximately 9,800 Americans.
Exposure to the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays appears to be the most important factor involved in the development of skin cancer, and it’s easy to take steps to protect yourself against skin cancer. When used consistently, sun-protective practices can help prevent skin cancer. UV rays from artificial sources of light, such as tanning beds and sunlamps, are just as dangerous as those from the sun and should also be avoided.
Lung cancer accounts for more deaths each year than breast, prostate, and colon cancer combined, making it one of the deadliest cancers. Nearly 88,500 American males died from lung cancer in 2003.
Almost 90% of lung cancers in the U.S. are due to smoking, so quitting greatly decreases your risk for developing lung cancer. The other 10% are caused by other factors such as exposure to asbestos, radon, etc. Tobacco smoking not only causes lung cancer, but it also contributes to the development of other cancers such as mouth, bladder, and esophageal. For information on how to quit, check out Part one of this focus or call the toll-free number of National Network of Tobacco Cessation Quitlines at 1-800-784-8669.
Prostate cancer is the most common form of cancer among U.S. men, after skin cancer. Based on 2004 cancer data, the Centers for Disease Control estimates that about 230,110 new cases will have been diagnosed. Prostate cancer is second leading cancer-related cause of death in men.
Experts agree that early detection of cancer increases survival rates and most recommend that men have regular screening tests for prostate cancer. There are several simple tests available to detect the potential presence of prostate cancer as well as other prostate problems. One of the most common tests used is the prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test. Treatments include surgery, hormones, and radiation, and vary widely depending on a man’s age, physical condition, and upon the growth rate and stage of the cancer.
Colorectal cancer was the third leading cause of death in American males in 2003, but it is the second leading cause of cancer related death in the U.S. population. Research has established that approximately 75% of colorectal cancers occur in people with no known risk factors; therefore, screening is critical. Several different tests are available; and all men over age 50 should be tested regularly.
An Ounce of Prevention
If you’re not the type to schedule regular check ups and put off going to the doctor until you feel really lousy, then you need to get a little more serious. With some cancers, you can have no discernable symptoms but be in trouble. By the time you feel bad enough to decide to go to the doctor, it may be too late to save your life. If you’ve not been to the doctor for some time, take a look at these guidelines to get an idea about what tests you should be having regularly.
Along with quitting smoking and getting regular check ups and screenings, there are several other things you can do to help reduce your cancer risk. Eat a healthy variety of foods. A diet rich in plant-sources and antioxidants is especially beneficial. Research suggests that about 30% of cancers are related to nutrition. You should also maintain a healthy weight and stay physically active.
Unfortunately, nothing guarantees a cancer-free life, but by maintaining a healthy lifestyle, you can increase your chances.
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