Cancer affects men in all walks of life and doesn’t discriminate by age. In fact, one in two men will develop some type of cancer in his lifetime. Even for cancers typically diagnosed in later years, like lung cancer, prevention begins early. This National Men’s Health Month, Dr. Kyle Keyes, Texas Urology Specialists-Austin Midtown, Round Rock and South Austin is sharing important facts that men at any age should keep in mind and encouraging men to take control of their health.
What are some common misconceptions about men and cancer?
Age is a top misconception, as cancer can actually affect men at any point in time. There is also a large perception among men that if there are no symptoms, then everything must be fine, but that’s not the case. Screening exams can diagnose cancer at the earliest stages, when treatment is most effective. Texas Oncology recommends regular screening and/or self-exams for men for prostate, colorectal, skin, testicular, and lung cancers.
Although prostate cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in men, what are some others that are prevalent? How have treatment options evolved throughout your career?
For most men, prostate cancer has the highest awareness rate – and that’s a good thing. It’s the most commonly diagnosed cancer in men. However, many other forms of cancer are prevalent, such as kidney, bladder, and testicular cancer, which are on the rise.
Fortunately, treatment options have evolved with minimally invasive surgery being the gold standard, and with further goals of reducing port number and size. The advancement of immunotherapies has exploded over the last 10 years, offering typically positive cancer outcomes with less toxicity than true chemotherapy.
What steps can men at any age can take to reduce their cancer risk?
Men are notorious for a bad health habit: one in four doesn't see a doctor at least once a year. You should establish a relationship with your doctor and make appointments for regular physical exams and regular screenings. Additional steps include maintaining a healthy lifestyle, avoid tobacco in any form, exercise regularly, and limit alcohol consumption.
What should all men know and take into consideration this National Men’s Health Month?
National Men's Health Month is an important time for men to step back, evaluate their overall health status, and ask a themselves, “Am I seeing a physician at least once a year?,” “Am I keeping up with recommended screening exams?,” “Am I eating healthy?,” “Am I taking time to exercise?”
Take control of your health and schedule an appointment with your doctor.
This article originally appeared in: