Male cancers:
understanding to take better action
Prostate or testicular cancer can remain invisible for years and progress without obvious symptoms. However, early detection changes everything: it allows to take action before the disease progresses and increases the chances of recovery. Gentlemen, be alert to any unusual signs and remember to schedule regular medical appointments: taking care of yourself means protecting yourself for the future.
Prostate Cancer: A Silent Tumour
Today, prostate cancer is one of the most frequently diagnosed cancers in men worldwide. In many regions, it is the most prevalent, but not necessarily the deadliest, thanks to better access to care, earlier diagnosis, and more effective treatments.
Advancing age is the main factor associated with prostate cancer. Family history also plays a role: men with first- or second-degree relatives affected by this disease are more likely to develop it themselves. Ethnicity also influences the likelihood of developing prostate cancer, with higher rates among people from sub-Saharan Africa and the Caribbean compared to the global average.
Symptoms and diagnosis: detect without panic
In the early stages, prostate cancer often presents no symptoms. Urinary problems may appear later on, such as difficulty urinating, frequent or urgent urination, or blood in the urine. However, experiencing these symptoms does not necessarily mean that you have prostate cancer. They may be signs of another benign condition. That’s why early screening is so important.
Two prostate cancer screening tests
From the age of 50, prostate cancer screening can be done in two ways:
- A rectal examination allows the doctor to check the size, consistency, and texture of the prostate surface.
- The prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test is a simple blood test used to measure PSA levels. If the level is too high, it means that the prostate cells are behaving abnormally. The cause may be a prostate tumour, but it could also be an infection or benign enlargement of the gland. To assess your risk of cancer, your doctor will consider your blood test results, your age, and your family history. If the risk is high, they may suggest a prostate biopsy under local anaesthetic: small tissue samples will be taken and analysed to determine whether a tumour is present and thus guide the most appropriate medical care.
If you’re experiencing concerning symptoms, don’t face them alone. The best form of prevention is to contact your doctor.
Testicular Cancer: Good Chances of Recovery
Testicular cancer is common in young men aged between 20 and 40. It usually develops from the cells that produce sperm, known as germ cells.
Diagnosis is often made following the discovery of a lump, usually painless, on the testicle – sometimes felt during self-examination or detected by a doctor. In some cases, it may cause discomfort or pain. Several factors can increase the risk, such as cryptorchidism (one or both testicles not descending properly into the scrotum before birth) or a previous testicular cancer.
The good news is that testicular cancer has a very favourable prognosis: most men treated for it survive, regardless of the stage. If detected early, testicular cancer is highly treatable. Even at a metastatic stage, treatment can lead to a cure in over 70% of cases.
Get into the habit of checking your testicles regularly and consult a doctor promptly if you notice a lump, pain, or any unusual change. Early detection makes all the difference.
Gentlemen, do not let your health wait
A simple examination, a blood test or self-examination can change everything. Both prostate and testicular cancers are much more treatable when detected early. So, gentlemen, take action: speak up, seek medical advice, stay alert. Because taking care of yourself is essential.
Source : National Cancer Institute, French Association of Urology, Foundation for Cancer Research