Cancer

One out of five male deaths in the U.S. is due to cancer. But many cancers are preventable, and early screening makes them treatable. Learn the facts about cancer. Then take action to protect yourself.

Common Cancers In Men

The deadliest cancer in men is also the easiest to prevent: lung cancer. It is estimated to kill nearly 94,400 American men in 1996. Colorectal (colon and rectum) cancer and prostate cancer are also common but, when caught early, are highly treatable.

Colorectal Cancer Prevention

Colorectal cancer is easily diagnosed and treatable. All men over 40 should get an annual colorectal cancer screening, a simple, painless procedure that checks for early signs of this type of cancer. Symptoms include gas, constipation, diarrhea, blood in the stool, change in bowel habits, or feeling bloated. In addition to doctor's exams, inexpensive home blood/stool tests are available. Prevent colorectal cancer by eating a high fiber, low fat diet. Increase fiber by eating whole grains, fresh fruit, and vegetables. Drink low fat or nonfat milk for calcium. Eliminate saturated fats, using olive or safflower oil instead.

Stop Smoking

Smokers are as much as 25 times more likely than nonsmokers to get lung cancer. But 15 years after they stop, their odds are the same as nonsmokers'. Those exposed to asbestos or radon also have higher risks if they do not wear protective equipment. Symptoms of lung cancer include chronic cough or hoarseness, coughing blood, and shortness of breath. Dramatically reduce your risks of getting lung cancer: quit smoking. Wear the right protective equipment at work, and eat foods high in Vitamin C (fresh fruit and vegetables).

Prostate Cancer Prevention

An annual exam is important after age 50, when prostate cancer is most common. A high fat diet, and regular exposure to cadmium in jobs like welding, electroplating, and alkaline-battery making, may increase your risk. Symptoms include difficulty or pain urinating, blood in the urine, interrupted urine flow, and continuing pain in the pelvis, upper thighs, or lower back. Prevent prostate cancer: lower the fat in your diet by eating broiled or baked (not fried) fish and chicken, less meat, and salads with less dressing. Most important is an annual rectal exam.

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