June is Men’s Health Month, a time to encourage men to take charge of their health through prevention, routine screenings, and healthy lifestyle choices. While many cancers can develop without obvious symptoms, early detection can make a significant difference in treatment outcomes.
According to the American Cancer Society, the cancers most commonly affecting men include prostate, lung, colorectal, skin, and testicular cancer. Understanding your personal risk and knowing when to talk with your healthcare provider about screening can help detect cancer earlier, when it’s often easier to treat.
Why Cancer Screening Matters
Cancer doesn’t always cause symptoms in its earliest stages. That’s why recommended screenings are so important. Many cancers can be found before symptoms develop through routine screening and the removal of precancerous growths. The earlier cancer is found, the more treatment options are often available.
Cancer Screenings Every Man Should Know:
Prostate Cancer
Outside of skin cancer, prostate cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in men and remains one of the leading causes of cancer death among men in the United States. About 1 in 8 men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer during their lifetime.
The American Cancer Society recommends men have a conversation with their healthcare provider about prostate cancer screening at:
- Age 50 for men at average risk who are expected to live at least 10 more years.
- Age 45 for men at higher risk, including Black men and men with a father or brother diagnosed before age 65.
- Age 40 for men with multiple close relatives diagnosed at an early age or those with certain inherited genetic mutations, such as BRCA mutations.
Screening typically involves a PSA (prostate-specific antigen) blood test, with some men also receiving a digital rectal exam (DRE).
Colorectal Cancer
Colorectal cancer is now the third most common cancer in men and one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths. While overall rates have declined, diagnoses in adults under age 50 have increased in recent years. The American Cancer Society recommends:
- Beginning routine screening at age 45 for people at average risk.
- Continuing screening through age 75 if you’re in good health.
- Individualizing screening decisions between ages 76-85 based on overall health and previous screening history.
Several screening options are available, including colonoscopy, stool-based tests, and CT colonography. Talk with your healthcare provider about which option is right for you.
Lung Cancer
Lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer death among men. Annual screening with a low-dose CT scan (LDCT) is recommended for adults who:
- Are 50 to 80 years old
- Currently smoke or formerly smoked
- Have at least a 20 pack-year smoking history
If you smoke, quitting remains one of the most effective ways to reduce your cancer risk.
Skin Cancer
Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States, and one of the most preventable. Protect yourself by:
- Wearing sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher
- Seeking shade during peak sunlight hours
- Wearing protective clothing and hats
- Avoiding tanning beds
- Checking your skin monthly for new or changing spots or moles
If you notice any concerning changes, schedule an evaluation with your healthcare provider or dermatologist.
Testicular Cancer
Although less common, testicular cancer most often affects younger men, particularly those between 20 and 34 years old. There is no routine screening test for testicular cancer, making early evaluation of any new symptoms important. Men should become familiar with their bodies and report symptoms such as:
- A lump or swelling in a testicle
- Pain or discomfort
- A feeling of heaviness in the scrotum
- Changes in size or shape
Healthy Habits That Help Lower Cancer Risk
While not every cancer can be prevented, nearly half of adult cancers may be preventable through healthy lifestyle choices. You can reduce your cancer risk by:
- Avoiding tobacco products
- Staying physically active
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Eating more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and fiber
- Limiting processed and red meats
- Limiting or avoiding alcohol
- Protecting your skin from ultraviolet (UV) exposure
- Keeping up with routine health visits and recommended screenings
Small changes made consistently over time can have a meaningful impact on your long-term health.
Know Your Family History
Family history plays an important role in cancer risk. If a parent, sibling, or close relative has been diagnosed with certain cancers – especially at a younger age – you may need to begin screening earlier or consider additional risk assessment. Sharing your family’s medical history with your primary care provider can help determine the screening schedule that’s right for you.
Tennessee Oncology Is Here for You
Men often put their own health on the back burner while caring for family, work, and other responsibilities. This Men’s Health Month, make yourself a priority. Whether it’s scheduling a recommended screening, discussing your family history, or addressing new symptoms, taking action today can make a difference tomorrow.
At Tennessee Oncology, we’re committed to helping patients through every step of the way. If you have questions about cancer risk or screening recommendations, talk with your healthcare provider or connect with our team to learn more.
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This content is intended for educational purposes only and does not replace medical advice. Treatment decisions should always be made in consultation with a qualified healthcare provider.
Information in this post is based on content from the American Cancer Society.
