According to the United States Department of Health and Human Services, men are 70 percent less likely to see a doctor for health concerns compared to women and are 80 percent less likely to have a regular doctor. This reluctance to take care of themselves may be deadly for men who delay diagnosis and treatment for reproductive system cancers.
Testicular Cancer
According to the Mayo Clinic, testicular cancer is a cancer that occurs predominately in young men between the ages of 15 and 34. Testicular cancer represents only 1 percent of cancers that occur in men. The testicles are responsible for producing the male hormone testosterone and sperm for reproduction. The Mayo Clinic suggests seeing your doctor if you notice these possible cancer symptoms: swelling, pain, tenderness or unusual fluid build-up in the groin that lasts for more than two weeks. Blood tests to detect testicular cancer look for three tumor markers, including alpha-fetoprotein, beta-human chorionic gonadotropin and lactate dehydrogenase, according to the National Cancer Institute. Testicular cancer is highly treatable if caught early.
Prostate Cancer
Prostate cancer is a slow-growing cancer that is more common in older men, according to the Prostate Cancer Foundation. According to data reported by the National Cancer Institute, 192,280 new cases of prostate cancer and 27,360 deaths were reported in 2009. Problems with urination and painful ejaculation are common early signs of prostate cancer. Digital rectal exam, trans-rectal ultrasound and blood tests to check for prostate-specific antigen can be used to diagnose prostate cancer, according to the National Cancer Institute.
The prostate gland, along with the seminal vesicles and other glands near the prostate are responsible for producing the fluids found in semen. Cancer in the prostrate can require surgical removal of the prostrate gland and sometimes the associated glands, which causes infertility and a dry ejaculate.
Penile Cancer
According to the National Cancer Institute, cancer in the penis is relatively rare, with just under 1,300 new cases and 300 deaths reported in 2009. Possible signs of penile cancer include redness, unusual discharges and lumps on the penis. Men who are infected with human papillomavirus have a higher risk of developing this cancer. Other risk factors include being over 60 years of age, poor personal hygiene, tobacco use, having multiple partners and having a condition called phimosis, in which the foreskin can not be pulled back easily over the glans. Early detection through physical exam and biopsy of suspicious lumps is important to successful treatment according to National Cancer Institute patient guidelines.
