Worldwide, there is an increasing incidence rate of cancer in men, with many males being identified with cancer later in their lives because they don’t understand what the signs mean and because they have not had their screenings performed on time. Therefore, Dr Sandeep Batra (Oncologist) has advised that to assist men in decreasing their risk of getting cancer and having an earlier diagnosis, there are some areas that he recommends that they work on:- Education about the various types of cancers, on-time/appropriate screenings and dietary changes.
Why Men Need to Focus on Cancer Awareness?
Cancer is one of the world’s leading causes of death, as noted by the World Health Organisation. Most male-specific cancers can be found early with physician-administered physical exams, as well as cancer screening programs. Many men put off seeking medical advice due to cultural stigma, fear and a busy lifestyle. Dr Batra wants men to take time to focus on their preventive health care for cancer by getting regular health screenings in order to catch cancer at an early stage before the development of signs and symptoms.
What are the common types of Cancer in Men?
- Prostate cancer ranks among the top five forms of malignancy affecting male individuals. This prostate cancer generally begins following reaching the age of 50-years-old. It usually develops very slowly, and patients frequently present with no symptoms throughout the respective presymptomatic stages of their development.
- Cancer of the lung is highly associated with smoking and environmental pollutants, such as air pollutants. According to the National Cancer Institute (NCI), lung cancer is the second-highest cause of death by malignancy for males.
- Cancer of the colon or rectum is collectively known as colorectal cancer. Colorectal cancers are becoming increasingly common in younger males. Colorectal cancers will present with similar warning signs as prostate cancers, specifically changes in bowel habits, blood found in the stool, abdominal discomfort and/or fatigue.
- Testicular malignancies, although relatively rare, primarily affect younger males and are usually successfully treated if diagnosed early in the appropriate course of their respective development. Common symptoms of testicular malignancies include one or more lumps or masses located within the testicles, discomfort and/ or heaviness associated with the testicles, and changes in the size of either or both testicles.
- Men who have been diagnosed with hepatitis B and/or C, consume alcohol and/or have fatty livers have higher risks for developing liver malignancies than individuals who do not exhibit any of the previously listed predisposing conditions. Vaccinations and making lifestyle changes, combined with regular monitoring, may significantly decrease one’s chances of developing liver cancer.
What is the Importance of Early Detection?
According to research conducted by the American Society of Clinical Oncology, the survival rates for early stages of cancer are dramatically greater than late stages. There are additional benefits associated with early discovery of cancer that are often cited by patients, including decreased intensity of treatment (due to not being required due to late stage diagnosis), improved overall health, lower cost of treatment, and higher probability of being cured. The most important tool available in modern-day cancer care is screening, says Dr Sandeep Batra.
The majority of cancers in men can be prevented and treated if they are diagnosed at an early stage. Through awareness of the types of cancers that affect men and regular screenings, along with making healthy lifestyle choices, there are many ways to reduce your risk of developing cancer and increase your chances of surviving it. By taking preventive measures, men can better protect their health and create a better life for themselves and their families.
Patients receiving advanced cancer care through the personalised, compassionate medical expertise of Dr Sandeep Batra are provided with the latest technology and intervention programs. If you or someone you love has no idea about your risk for having cancer or would like to begin screening for potential signs of cancer, schedule your appointment with Dr Sandeep Batra!!