More than half of all men express laziness or ignorance before the recommended appointments for cancer screening. Early detection plays a crucial role in the fight against cancer. Every man should really take advantage of the following examinations.
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What does early cancer detection bring?
Around 500,000 cancer cases are newly diagnosed in Germany every year. Men are mainly affected by prostate cancer, colon cancer and lung cancer. In the case of prostate tumors in particular, there is a very good chance of survival of over 90 percent if the carcinoma is detected early. So-called intestinal polyps , which may turn into malignant tumors, can also be easily detected and removed with a colonoscopy. Unfortunately, so far only about 40 percent of all men take advantage of the check-ups paid for by health insurance companies. No man should miss the following dates.
Cancer screening: Men should attend these appointments
Check-ups from the age of 35
If you discover suspicious moles on your skin, you can of course have a dermatologist examine you for potential melanoma beforehand . However, for all those who do not observe any noticeable changes in their skin, a so-called skin cancer screening is recommended every two years from the age of 35 – a thorough inspection of the entire body for black and white skin cancer .
Preventive appointments from the age of 45
The screening for the most common type of cancer in men – prostate cancer – should be carried out annually from the age of 45. The doctor scans the prostate to identify possible enlargements and hardening. The testicles are also examined for possible signs of testicular cancer. There are also so-called PSA tests , which are not covered by health insurance. They measure the blood value of the prostate-specific antigen (PSA) and can thus also detect prostate cancer at an earlier stage, but are not entirely uncontroversial .
Prenatal appointments from the age of 50
Colorectal cancer is one of the three most common forms of cancer, regardless of gender. It occurs somewhat more frequently and earlier in men, which is why they are advised to have a colonoscopy from the age of 50 , which should be repeated after 10 years. From the age of 50 to 54 years, the stool can be tested for occult (non-visible) blood once a year . From the age of 55, this test can be repeated every two years.
Additional early detection when there is an increased risk of cancer
The above tests and periods apply to all healthy men who do not have an increased risk of cancer due to family history or medical conditions. In the event of a family-related increased risk or the occurrence of symptoms and suspicious appearances (e.g. dark mole), everyone can and should consult a doctor they trust, regardless of the planned check-up appointments.
Tip: You can obtain further information on early cancer detection from your health insurance company or on the website of the German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ) >>
