Cancer screening is a crucial part of preventive healthcare, especially for men as they age. Early cancer detection improves treatment outcomes and survival rates. Here’s a guide to the most critical cancer screenings men should consider at different stages of life.
1. Prostate Cancer Screening
Who should get screened:
Men aged 40 and older, of all ethnic backgrounds, and regardless of a family history of prostate cancer or not. African American men are at a higher risk of being diagnosed with prostate cancer and experiencing a higher death rate from the disease. They need to consider following these guidelines for their well-being.
Types of Screening:
Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) Test: This test measures the level of PSA in the blood. Elevated levels might indicate prostate cancer, but other conditions can also cause them.
Discuss with your doctor but ideally yearly screening is recommended.
Why it’s essential: Prostate cancer is the second most common cancer in American men. Early detection of cancer found through screening can lead to early treatment, which is often more effective.
2. Colorectal Cancer Screening
Who should get screened:
Men aged 45 and older
Men with a family history of colorectal cancer or polyps, or those with inflammatory bowel disease, may need earlier screening.
Types of Screening:
Colonoscopy: A comprehensive test that allows the doctor to examine and view the entire colon and rectum for polyps or cancer. It’s diagnostic and preventive, as polyps can be removed during the procedure.
Stool-Based Tests: Tests like the Fecal Immunochemical Test (FIT) or stool DNA tests can detect signs of cancer in the stool.
Flexible Sigmoidoscopy: Similar to a colonoscopy, it only examines the lower part of the colon.
Frequency:
Colonoscopy: Every ten years, starting at age 45 (or earlier, depending on risk).
Stool-Based Tests: Typically done annually.
Why it’s essential: Colorectal cancer is highly treatable when caught early. Regular screenings can also prevent cancer by removing precancerous polyps.
3. Lung Cancer Screening
Who should get screened:
Men aged 50-80 who are current smokers or have quit within the past 15 years.
Men with a 20-pack-year smoking history (e.g., one pack a day for 20 years or two packs a day for ten years).
Types of Screening:
Low-Dose Computed Tomography (LDCT): A specialized CT scan that detects lung cancer at an early stage, when it’s more likely to be treatable.
Frequency:
Annually, for those at high risk, as defined by the criteria above.
Why it’s essential: Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death in men. Early detection through LDCT can significantly reduce mortality in high-risk individuals.
4. Skin Cancer Screening
Who should get screened:
All men, but especially those with a history of sunburns, excessive sun exposure, fair skin, or a family history of skin cancer.
Types of Screening:
Skin Exam: A dermatologist or healthcare provider examines the skin for unusual moles, spots, or lesions that could indicate skin cancer.
Self-Exams: Regular self-examinations to monitor for any new or changing moles or spots.
Frequency:
Annually or more frequently for those at higher risk.
Monthly self-exams are also recommended.
Why it’s essential: Skin cancer, including melanoma, is highly treatable when detected early. Regular skin checks can help catch it before it spreads.
5. Testicular Cancer Screening
Who should get screened:
Men aged 15-35, though older men should also be vigilant.
Men with a history of undescended testicle(s) or a family history of testicular cancer are at higher risk.
Types of Screening:
Self-Exams: Regular self-examinations to check for lumps, swelling, or changes in the testicles.
Clinical Exam: A healthcare provider can check for abnormalities during a routine physical.
Frequency:
Monthly self-exams are recommended, especially for younger men.
Clinical exams should be part of regular health check-ups.
Why it’s essential: Testicular cancer is one of the most common cancers in younger men, but it’s also highly treatable, especially when caught early.
6. Oral and Throat Cancer Screening
Who should get screened:
Men who use tobacco or alcohol as they are at higher risk.
Men who are exposed to human papillomavirus (HPV) can also increase throat cancer risk.
Types of Screening:
Oral Exam: A healthcare provider examines the mouth, throat, and tongue for signs of cancer.
Self-Exams: Men should regularly check for sores, lumps, or changes in the mouth or throat.
Frequency:
Annually, during a dental or physical exam, especially for those at higher risk.
Why it’s essential: Early detection of oral and throat cancers can lead to more successful treatment outcomes.
Conclusion
Regular cancer screenings are vital for men’s health as they age. Finding cancer early has a higher likelihood of more effective treatment and better survival rates. Men should work closely with their healthcare providers to develop a personalized screening schedule based on their age, risk factors, and family history. When preventive steps are taken, this can make a huge difference long term.Dr. David Samadiis the Director of Men’s Health and Urologic Oncology at St. Francis Hospital in Long Island. He’s a renowned and highly successful board-certified Urologic Oncologist Expert and Robotic Surgeon in New York City, regarded as one of the leading prostate surgeons in the U.S., with a vast expertise in prostate cancer treatment and Robotic-Assisted Laparoscopic Prostatectomy. Dr. Samadi is a medical contributor to NewsMax TV and is also the author of The Ultimate MANual, Dr. Samadi’s Guide to Men’s Health and Wellness, available online both on Amazon and Barnes & Noble. Visit Dr. Samadi’s websites at robotic oncology and prostate cancer 911.
