Most common types of cancer in men
Find out with us what are the 5 most common types of cancer in men, their risk factors and the signs to be very alert to.
What influences the frequency of cancer?
There are several factors that influence the possibility of developing cancer.
Genetic mutations, tobacco use, exposure to radiation and chemicals, obesity, hormonal changes, chronic inflammation, and a sedentary lifestyle are just a few of the most common risk factors.
However, there is no specific cause that determines the appearance of cancer; this being precisely one of the reasons why it is difficult to predict its appearance.
Types of Cancer
Undoubtedly, there are many types of cancer and it is important to manage information about their early detection.
Below, we present the types of more common cancer in men.
1. Prostate cancer
Prostate cancer is usually diagnosed in men over the age of 60. This is one of the most common types of cancer in men, but also one of the most treatable; since, when detected early, the patient is cured. Although there is no way to avoid it, there are several risk factors that increase the likelihood of suffering from this disease; among them the consumption of tobacco, excessive alcoholic beverages and being overweight. On the other hand, cancer as well as benign prostatic hyperplasia produce an increase in the size of the prostate gland, but they should not be confused. Both cause difficulty urinating and impotence, so their diagnosis must be specified by a specialist.
2. Lung cancer
Then there is lung cancer; a type of tumor that presses on nearby organs until it obstructs the airways, causing difficulty breathing. Lung cancer has nonspecific symptoms that can be mistaken for other respiratory conditions or diseases. An example of this is coughing, which becomes persistent and worsens over time. Respiratory distress is also accentuated and does not improve with the change in body position.
3. Colorectal cancer
In the same way as with prostate cancer, the chances of developing this type of cancer increase with age. The risk is also higher for those men with certain genetic conditions or who suffer from inflammatory bowel conditions. Colorectal cancer affects the tissues of the colon and/or rectum, having as its main characteristic the development of malignant stones. Among the symptoms it presents can be mentioned the presence of blood in the stool, abdominal cramp-like pain, variable bowel habits and a feeling of not emptying after defecation. Colonoscopy is a test that serves to prevent, diagnose, and treat this type of cancer early.
4. Skin cancer
Another common cancer in men is skin cancer. Obviously, extreme exposure to ultraviolet rays from sunlight is an important risk factor; however, aging also gives rise to its development. Of course, people with fair complexions and those who have a history of having suffered from squamous cell carcinoma are more likely to suffer from skin cancer. Although it has a very good chance when it is detected early, in advanced cases it can quickly become complicated.
5. Bladder cancer
There is no specific way to prevent bladder cancer, because it has multiple risk factors that cannot be controlled; among them age, family history and race. It generally occurs in men over 70 years of age, but despite everything, it is possible to take some measures to reduce the risk of developing it. These include drinking plenty of water, not smoking, eating fruits and vegetables regularly, and going for regular check-ups with the urologist.
Statistics
Statistics indicate that prostate cancer, lung cancer, and colorectal cancer account for 45% of all cases diagnosed in men.
Consequently, specifying which is the most common cancer in men is a variable that is not consistent in different parts of the world, because the race and habits of each region or country affect the frequency of one or the other.
Likewise, the mortality rate from cancer in men is higher than in women; And when comparing factors such as race, sex, and age group, the highest mortality rate is among African men, while the lowest among women corresponds to Asian or Pacific Islander women.
What medical check-ups should be done annually?
When cancer is suspected, the specialist usually indicates a series of tests that favor early detection.
However, if you want to perform a routine check-up, the doctor usually performs a physical examination based on which he or she may order more specific tests that allow any possible findings to be studied in detail; including laboratory tests, biopsies or imaging studies (magnetic resonance imaging, CT scan, ultrasound and X-rays).
In conclusion, the important thing is to maintain healthy habits and go to the doctor once a year for a complete check-up to help us prevent or treat any health problem in time.
