Get Men Talking

Men often find it easier to discuss topics like the news, sports, or weather rather than their own well-being. But it’s time to Get Men Talking because 1 in 3 men in Ireland will be diagnosed with cancer at some point in their lives even though many cancers can be prevented and most treated successfully if caught early.

Most common cancers affecting men are:?

The cancers that most often affect men in Ireland are prostate, bowel, lung and skin cancers. Testicular cancer holds the highest rate among men aged 15-34. Familiarising yourself with the symptoms of these cancers, staying vigilant, and adopting preventive measures may save your life.?

Prostate Cancer?

Prostate cancer is the most common male cancer in Ireland. One in eight men here will be diagnosed with it. Your chances of getting prostate cancer go up as you get older so if you’re over 50, talk to your GP about the PSA blood test every year. Prostate cancer can run in families, so if a family member has had prostate cancer be extra cautious and talk to your GP.?

Bowel Cancer?

Bowel cancer ranks among the most prevalent cancers in Ireland, affecting more than 1,440 Irish men every year. It’s also known as colon cancer, rectal cancer, or colorectal cancer – depending on where in the bowel the tumour is.??

Certain lifestyle factors, such as alcohol consumption, smoking, excess weight, lack of physical activity, and a diet rich in red meat or processed foods, can elevate the risk of developing bowel cancer. There's also a hereditary component, as individuals with a family history of bowel cancer face an increased likelihood of its occurrence.?

Skin Cancer?

Women are more likely to get skin cancer than men. But men are more likely to die from it.?

Skin cancer is the most common cancer in Ireland. You can prevent skin cancer by being sun smart:?

• Always wear sunscreen?
• Sunscreen with UVA protection?

• Avoid the sun between 11am and 3pm?
• Wear protective clothing?
• Never, ever use sunbeds?

Check your skin regularly to see if any of your moles or freckles have changed in colour or size. If they have, talk to your GP straight away.?

Testicular Cancer??

Testicular cancer?is the most common cancer in men aged 15-34. However, it’s actually very rare and it’s very treatable if caught early enough. You can’t do anything to prevent it but you can catch it early. That’s why you should check every month to make sure there are no abnormalities, if you notice anything unusual, get it checked out by a doctor straight away to make sure.?

Lung Cancer??

Among all the types of cancer, lung cancer stands as the leading cause of mortality in Ireland. Approximately 1,300 men receive a lung cancer diagnosis annually in Ireland. The primary contributor to most lung cancer cases is smoking; if you are a smoker, it is strongly advised to quit immediately. For assistance, you can visit Quit.ie or call Freephone 1800 201 203.?

In its early stages, lung cancer often presents few symptoms. However, as the cancer progresses and affects the lungs, the following symptoms may emerge:?

• Persistent and worsening cough?
• Coughing up excessive phlegm tinged with blood?
• Chest pain occurring during coughing or breathing?
• Recurrence of chest infections?

• Unexplained weight loss?

Knowing about these types of cancers, understanding their symptoms, and familiarising yourself with preventive measures and early detection strategies can potentially play a crucial role in saving your life. ?

All information in this article is from the Marie Keating Foundation, if you would like to find out more, please visit their website: Marie Keating Foundation.?

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