By: Dr Avi Verma

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Readers are encouraged to consult their healthcare providers for personalized recommendations regarding cancer risk and screenings.

Staying on top of personal health risks and following recommended cancer screenings is critical for men of all ages. Early detection saves lives, yet many men delay or skip routine exams. Awareness, risk assessment, and timely screening are the keys to proactive healthcare.

“It’s never too early to understand your risks for developing cancer,” says Peter Hulick, MD, Chair of Personalized Medicine and Medical Director at the Mark R. Neaman Center for Personalized Medicine.

Prostate Cancer

Prostate cancer is among the most common cancers in men. Approximately 1 in 8 men will be diagnosed in their lifetime. Screening with a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test can detect disease early, though recommendations vary on the age to start. Many medical organizations now suggest starting at age 50, or earlier for high-risk individuals.

Risk Factors and Personalized Assessment

Understanding personal risk can guide screening decisions:

• Family History: A father or brother with prostate cancer significantly increases risk.
• Monogenic Variants: Inherited pathogenic variants in BRCA2, CHEK2, and ATM elevate risk and may predict the cancer’s aggressiveness.
• Polygenic Risk Score (PRS) Testing: PRS tests use blood or saliva samples to evaluate genetic risk across many genes. This cutting-edge testing identifies more at-risk individuals than family history or single-gene tests alone. PRS results can help determine when to start PSA screening and plan preventive measures.

Dr. Hulick notes that while PRS testing is not universally covered by insurance, it is becoming an important tool for personalized preventive medicine.

Colon Cancer

Colon cancer is rising in younger men. Screening should begin at age 45, and colonoscopy remains the gold standard, especially for men at elevated risk.

• Family History & Genetic Risk: Men with a family history of colorectal cancer or Lynch syndrome are at higher risk. Lynch syndrome is the second most common hereditary cancer syndrome, yet awareness is limited compared to BRCA mutations.

Skin Cancer

Annual dermatologic exams are crucial for early detection of melanoma and other skin cancers. Men with fair skin, a history of sunburns, or prolonged sun exposure should monitor for:

• Changing moles or skin lesions
• New growths or discolorations
• Unusual sores that do not heal

Regular checks allow for early intervention and greatly improve treatment outcomes.

Lung Cancer

Low-dose CT scans are recommended for men who currently smoke or quit within the last 15 years, with at least a 20 pack-year history (e.g., 1 pack/day for 20 years, 2 packs/day for 10 years). Annual screening is advised for eligible individuals. Early detection significantly improves survival rates.

Oral Cancer

Dental exams play a critical role in detecting oral cancers. Men who smoke, chew tobacco, or drink heavily are at higher risk and should discuss oral cancer screening with their dentist.

Healthy Lifestyle Habits to Lower Cancer Risk

While screenings are vital, lifestyle changes can dramatically reduce cancer risk:

• Quit smoking and avoid tobacco use
• Exercise regularly—aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate activity per week
• Maintain a balanced diet rich in vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and lean proteins
• Limit alcohol consumption
• Protect skin from excessive sun exposure

“Knowing your risk is important, but many cancer risks are modifiable,” says Dr. Hulick. “Healthy habits complement screenings and can prevent or delay the onset of many cancers.”

Top 5 Screenings Every Man Should Know

1. Prostate Cancer: PSA blood test, typically starting at age 50 or earlier for high-risk men.
2. Colon Cancer: Colonoscopy starting at age 45, with more frequent screening for high-risk individuals.
3. Skin Cancer: Annual dermatology exams and self-checks for changing moles or new growths.
4. Lung Cancer: Low-dose CT scan for current or former heavy smokers (20 pack-year history).
5. Oral Cancer: Routine dental exams, especially for tobacco or alcohol users.

Tip: Men with family history or genetic predispositions may need earlier or more frequent screenings. Personalized risk assessments, including genetic testing, can help tailor preventive strategies.

Bottom Line: Men should stay proactive about their health. Regular screenings, genetic risk assessments, and healthy lifestyle choices together form the most effective defense against cancer. Ignoring risks or delaying tests can have serious consequences.

Endorsement: By following these guidelines, men can not only protect themselves but also support long-term wellness for families and communities