Men, It’s Time to Talk to Your Doctor

Between 2015 and 2022, men were diagnosed with 16 different late-stage cancers more frequently than women, as highlighted in a recent study. The most notable differences were seen in salivary gland, oropharyngeal, thyroid, and stomach cancers.

So, what’s behind this concerning trend?

According to the study’s lead author, Beth Maclin, PhD, MPH, men tend to avoid doctors more than women do. This means fewer opportunities for early detection, leading to worse outcomes for men.

This trend goes beyond just cancer rates; men tend to have shorter lifespans, living about 76 years on average compared to 81 for women.

Experts consistently urge men to be more proactive about their health through regular check-ups and screenings.

“Men have biological vulnerabilities,” notes Dr. David Shusterman, a urologist. “However, the bigger issue is that they often wait until health problems become serious before taking action.”

If you’re not sure which symptoms are important to discuss, Dr. Michael Herman, Director of Urology at Mount Sinai South Nassau, has outlined four key symptoms men should talk about earlier rather than later.

1. Enlarged Testicles

Even if there’s no pain, an increase in size or swelling in the scrotum should raise alarm bells.

“Patients often search for their symptoms online, but it can be tough to pinpoint what they’re experiencing,” Herman explains. “They might not know if swelling is due to fluid buildup or from the testicle itself.”

While benign causes are likely, there’s also a chance it could indicate testicular cancer, which often occurs without pain. Delaying a visit to the doctor can lead to severe consequences, as symptoms may take over 30 days to diagnose.

2. Erectile Dysfunction

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is common, but it could signal more serious issues beyond the bedroom. According to Herman, many men overlook the fact that ED can be an early sign of vascular disease, especially if not tied to psychological factors.

For a good erection, blood flow needs to be optimal. If it isn’t, there might be underlying problems with blood vessels. Importantly, issues with erections can precede more severe cardiac symptoms by years.

3. Frequent Urination

Frequent urination or difficulties in urinating can indicate diabetes. A urine test can help determine if that’s the case.

“When blood sugar levels reach about 180, the kidneys can’t manage the excess sugar, causing it to spill into the urine,” explains Herman. “This brings more water along with it, leading to increased urination.”

4. Depression, Fatigue, and Low Sex Drive

While these issues can stem from stress, medication, or mental health challenges, they might also signal low testosterone. This condition affects around 39% of men over 45, according to research.

“These symptoms have many possible causes, so getting a thorough evaluation is crucial for effective treatment,” Herman adds.

It’s important to check testosterone levels in the morning for accurate results, as they peak then. Normal levels range from 300 to 1,000 nanograms per deciliter.

However, testosterone naturally declines by about 1% each year after age 30, so treatment may vary, often including testosterone replacement therapy for those with low levels.