Understanding cancers that affect men is an important step in maintaining health and well-being. This discussion focuses on cancers that either exclusively develop in the male anatomy or are diagnosed in men at particularly high rates. Gaining knowledge about these conditions can empower individuals to recognize potential changes and engage in proactive health monitoring. Awareness of these distinctions supports informed conversations with healthcare providers about personal health.
Cancers Unique to the Male Anatomy
Certain cancers arise exclusively within the male reproductive system due to the presence of specific organs. Prostate cancer originates in the prostate gland, a small, walnut-sized organ situated below the bladder and in front of the rectum. This gland produces seminal fluid, which nourishes and transports sperm. Cancer develops when cells in the prostate gland begin to grow uncontrollably.
Testicular cancer affects the testicles, two oval-shaped organs located in the scrotum, a pouch of skin below the penis. These glands are responsible for producing sperm and male hormones like testosterone. Most testicular cancers begin in germ cells, which produce sperm. These cells divide abnormally, forming a tumor.
Penile cancer is a rarer type that develops when healthy cells in the penis change and grow without control. The penis is a rod-shaped organ with a shaft and a head (glans), which may be covered by a foreskin in uncircumcised individuals. This cancer most commonly starts on the glans or the foreskin, if present. Penile cancers are often squamous cell carcinomas, originating from the skin-like cells covering the penis surface.
Leading Cancers Diagnosed in Men
Beyond those unique to male anatomy, several other cancers are diagnosed in men at significant rates, impacting overall health. Lung cancer is a leading cause of cancer-related deaths among men. It is the second most common cancer in both men and women in the United States, after prostate cancer in men. Globally, it remains the most commonly diagnosed cancer for men and the leading cause of cancer death.
Colorectal cancer, affecting the colon or rectum, is the third most commonly diagnosed cancer in both men and women. It is the second most common cause of cancer deaths when combined for both sexes. Its development involves the uncontrolled growth of cells lining the large intestine or rectum, with incidence rates higher in males.
Skin cancer, particularly melanoma, is also prevalent among men. Melanoma originates in melanocytes, the cells that produce skin pigment, and is considered a more aggressive form of skin cancer. Men, especially those aged 50 and older, face a significantly higher risk of diagnosis and mortality compared to women.
Recognizing Potential Warning Signs
Recognizing changes in your body can prompt timely medical attention, which may lead to earlier detection of cancer. For prostate cancer, early stages do not present symptoms, but as the tumor grows, changes in urination may occur. These can include a weak or slow urinary stream, difficulty starting urination, needing to urinate more frequently, especially at night, or a sensation of incomplete bladder emptying. More advanced signs might involve blood in the urine or semen, pain in the hips or back, unexpected weight loss, or difficulty achieving an erection.
Testicular cancer often manifests as a painless lump or swelling in one testicle, which can be as small as a pea or much larger. Other indications include a feeling of heaviness in the scrotum, a dull ache in the lower abdomen or groin, or sudden fluid accumulation in the scrotum. Some men might also experience discomfort or pain in a testicle or the scrotum.
Lung cancer symptoms appear in advanced stages, but some individuals may experience persistent or worsening cough, shortness of breath, or chest pain. Other signs can include coughing up blood, hoarseness, wheezing, unexplained weight loss, or persistent tiredness. Recurrent chest infections or swelling in the face or neck can also be indicators.
Colorectal cancer can present with changes in bowel habits, such as persistent diarrhea or constipation, or stools that appear narrower than usual. Rectal bleeding, bright red blood in the stool, or very dark, tarry stools are concerning symptoms. Abdominal pain, cramping, unexplained weight loss, and persistent fatigue can also be associated with colorectal cancer.
For skin cancer, particularly melanoma, the most important warning sign is a new spot on the skin or a change in an existing mole’s size, shape, or color. Look for asymmetry, irregular borders, varied color, or a diameter larger than 6 millimeters. Other signs include a sore that does not heal, spread of pigment from a spot’s border, redness or swelling, or changes in sensation like itchiness or bleeding.
Penile cancer symptoms often involve changes in the skin of the penis, most commonly on the glans or foreskin. These can include a growth, lump, or sore that does not heal. Other signs may be a reddish rash, bleeding from the penis or under the foreskin, or a foul-smelling discharge. Difficulty pulling back the foreskin or a change in the color or texture of the penile skin can also be present.
Understanding Key Risk Factors
Several factors can increase a man’s likelihood of developing cancer, categorized as those that cannot be changed and those influenced by lifestyle. For prostate cancer, age is a significant factor, with risk increasing rapidly after age 50. A family history of prostate cancer, particularly in a father or brother, elevates a man’s risk. Inherited gene changes, such as mutations in BRCA1 or BRCA2, also contribute to an elevated risk.
Testicular cancer primarily affects younger men. An undescended testicle (cryptorchidism) is a primary risk factor, increasing the likelihood of developing the cancer. A family history of testicular cancer in a father or brother also raises an individual’s risk.
For lung cancer, tobacco smoke is the leading risk factor. The risk increases with the duration and intensity of smoking, and secondhand smoke exposure also contributes. Other environmental exposures, such as radon gas, asbestos, arsenic, and diesel exhaust, are also linked to an increased risk, especially when combined with smoking.
Colorectal cancer risk is influenced by various lifestyle factors. Diets high in red and processed meats, low in fruits and vegetables, and high in fat are associated with increased risk. Obesity, excessive alcohol consumption, and smoking tobacco further elevate the risk. Non-modifiable factors include increasing age, a personal history of colorectal polyps, or inflammatory bowel disease.
Melanoma risk is strongly tied to ultraviolet (UV) light exposure from the sun or tanning beds. A history of severe, blistering sunburns significantly increases the risk. Having many moles or atypical moles also raises the risk. Fair skin, light hair, and light eye color contribute to a higher susceptibility.
Penile cancer risk factors include being uncircumcised, especially if accompanied by poor hygiene or a condition called phimosis, which prevents foreskin retraction. Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection is strongly associated with penile cancers. Smoking tobacco is another significant risk factor, with the risk being highest in men who smoke and have HPV.
The Role of Screening and Early Detection
Medical screening involves testing for early stages of a disease before symptoms appear, offering a significant advantage for successful treatment. Early detection of cancer often leads to less aggressive interventions, fewer side effects, and improved health outcomes. For men, several screening methods are recommended to identify potential issues at their earliest, most treatable stages.
For prostate cancer, the prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test measures a protein produced by the prostate gland. Elevated PSA levels may suggest cancer, but they can also indicate benign conditions. For men at average risk, discussions about PSA screening begin around age 50, while those with increased risk may start these conversations earlier. The frequency of testing depends on initial PSA levels and personal risk factors.
Colorectal cancer screening is highly effective in preventing and detecting cancer early, often by identifying precancerous polyps before they become malignant. For men at average risk, colonoscopy is recommended every 10 years, starting at age 45. Other options include annual stool-based tests or virtual colonoscopy every five years. If a stool test yields an abnormal result, a colonoscopy is recommended for follow-up.
Testicular self-exams are a simple, proactive measure for men to familiarize themselves with the normal feel and appearance of their testicles. It is recommended to perform these self-checks monthly, starting in adolescence. While self-exams can help detect changes like lumps or swelling, any unusual findings should prompt a visit to a healthcare provider for professional evaluation.
Professional skin checks by a dermatologist are valuable for detecting skin cancer, including melanoma, in its early stages. Dermatologists use specialized tools and expertise to identify suspicious moles or lesions that might be missed during self-examination. Regular professional examinations, complemented by monthly self-checks using the ABCDEs of melanoma (Asymmetry, Border, Color, Diameter, Evolving), allow for monitoring of skin changes over time. Consulting a healthcare provider to determine an appropriate screening schedule based on individual age and risk factors is always a prudent step.