5 Common Cancers That Occur in Adult Men

For patients with cancer, early detection plays a pivotal role in improving outcomes. It is often the dividing line between successful treatment, providing an opportunity for timely intervention and a higher chance of complete recovery.

Thus, by understanding the importance of regular screenings and recognizing the signs and symptoms of common cancers, men can empower themselves to take charge of their health and significantly increase their odds of a positive outcome.

To that end, it’s a good idea for adult males throughout the world to familiarise themselves with the types of cancers that they should keep an eye out for, along with symptoms that might indicate these cancers. Doing so is particularly important for seniors and caregivers, as both groups already have so much going on.

Prostate Cancer

One of the most common types of cancer, there were roughly 288,300 new cases of prostate cancer in the United States in 2023, along with 34,700 deaths from the disease. The cancer is most likely to develop in older men, with an average of 1 in 8 men being diagnosed throughout their life.

The cancer affects the prostate, a small gland that is a part of the reproductive system. At its early stages, this type of cancer often does not exhibit symptoms. Moreover, it is typically slow-growing, which means that it can take years for it to grow large enough to be detected. However, there are also forms of prostate cancer that can be quite aggressive.

Age is a common risk factor for prostate cancer and the risk increases significantly after the age of 50. The condition is typically detected during blood tests or routine medical checkups, but it’s also not unusual for men to grow old and die without knowing that they have prostate cancer.

In its advanced stage, the condition can lead to symptoms such as difficulty passing urine, increased frequency of urination, and weak or interrupted urine stream. However, these are not definitive symptoms, as they can also occur as the result of an enlarged prostate.

The treatment options for the condition range from active surveillance, where the cancer is monitored but not immediately treated, to surgery, radiation therapy, and hormone therapy.

Lung Cancer

While smoking prevalence has steadily declined in recent years, around 11.5% of American adults continue to identify as smokers. It’s a habit that one should quit as soon as possible, especially because lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths among adult males.

Smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer, with 90% of cases being attributable to the habit. As such, quitting smoking is one of the best things you can do for your health.

There are two common types of lung cancers: non-small cell lung cancers (NSCLC), which account for 85% of all lung cancers, and small cell lung cancers (SCLC), which are strongly associated with smoking and make up the remaining 15%.

 At a more advanced stage, lung cancer can lead to symptoms such as persistent coughs, chest pain, coughing up blood, and unexplained weight loss. The treatment options for lung cancer depend on its type and stage, but it can include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy.

Colorectal Cancer

Colorectal cancer, which affects the colon and rectum, is another common type of cancer among men. In its later stages, this cancer can lead to symptoms including drastic changes in bowel habits, blood in the stool, abdominal discomfort, and unexplained weight loss. It’s recommended for men to start undergoing screening for colorectal cancer once they reach 50 years old.

Risk factors for this type of cancer include a diet high in red or processed meats, lack of physical activity, smoking, and heavy alcohol use. Treating colorectal cancer can involve chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, and surgery to remove the tumour. Just like the other cancers mentioned in this list, early detection is key to improving survival rates and the outcomes of treatment options.

Liver Cancer

While liver cancer is less common than some of the cancers on this list, it still occurs frequently and should be watched out for.

Among its risk factors are chronic hepatitis B or C infections, excessive alcohol consumption, and obesity. Early-stage liver cancer may not show symptoms; as it progresses, however, signs such as unexplained weight loss, abdominal pain, and yellowing of the skin and eyes may appear.

Managing risk factors, such as getting vaccinated against hepatitis B, practising safe sex to prevent hepatitis C, and moderating alcohol intake, is essential for liver cancer prevention. Options for treating it can include surgery, liver transplant, ablation therapy, chemoembolization, or targeted therapy.

Testicular Cancer

Testicular cancer is relatively rare but most commonly diagnosed in young to middle-aged men. Its signs may include a painless lump or swelling in the testicle, discomfort or pain in the testicle or scrotum, and a feeling of heaviness in the scrotum. Fortunately, testicular cancer can be detected by carrying out regular self-examinations.

The usual treatment involves surgical removal of the affected testicle, a procedure called orchiectomy. In some cases, additional treatments like radiation therapy or chemotherapy may be needed. The prognosis for testicular cancer is generally excellent, especially when detected early, making self-exams an essential part of men’s health routines.

Final Thoughts

Cancer awareness can guide individuals in detecting cancer early and accessing better treatment, and ultimately, improved outcomes. By promoting a culture of vigilance, men can equip themselves and their communities with the knowledge to recognize warning signs and take timely action to keep their health in check.