Men’s Health and Cancer Screenings

It’s an established fact that when it comes to cancer, early detection = better outcomes. It’s also a fact that in early stages of cancer, it’s common to experience no symptoms. That’s why routine cancer screenings are so important, even if you feel well.

Yet according to the Prevent Cancer Foundation®, 65% of men are behind on at least one routine cancer screening. It’s an alarming statistic, since a number of cancers can be treated successfully if caught early enough.

Screening guidance for the cancers most prevalent among men.

The cancers that most often affect men are prostate, colon, lung, and skin cancers. Each has its own specific guidance as to when you should start getting screened and at what frequency based on your risk factors. For those of average risk, these recommended screenings start as early as 45 years old (colon cancer).

If you’re 45 or older, or have known cancer risk factors, talk to your doctor about screening. In the meantime, you can find specific guidance for each of these prevalent cancers on the American Cancer Society’s “Cancer Facts for Men” web page.