Last updated on August 29th, 2017 at 10:05 am

To raise awareness of issues that affect men’s health that are not very often openly talked about.  The Movember Foundation has been encouraging men to grow their moustaches and everyone to take part in fund raising and awareness events in November events since 2003 and says that by 2030 it will have reduced the number of men dying prematurely by 25%.

What health issues are men facing?

Two of the primary health issues that Movember aims to raise awareness of are prostate cancer and testicular cancer, along with mental health.  The organisation also works to support suicide prevention.

Prostate cancer

The prostate gland is only found in men and is located between the penis and the bladder.  Cancer occurs when the prostate cells grow faster than usual and develop into a tumour. The growth is slow to start with and early detection can save lives. But if left untreated the cancer can spread to lymph nodes and bones, creating secondary tumours.

Signs of prostate cancer

One of the main signs of possible prostate cancer is a change in urinary function including frequency, flow rate, urgency and pain when urinating. Some men may also experience a change in sexual function.

Prostate cancer treatments

Some of the treatments available are:

• prostatectomy
• radiotherapy or chemotherapy
• hormone therapy

If detected early the survival rate beyond 5 years is 98%.

You can find out much more about prostate cancer in our website article ‘All about your prostate’

You can also get more information on the NHS website.

Testicular cancer

Testicular cancer starts as an abnormal growth, around the size of a pea, on one or both testicles

According to NHS UK, testicular cancer is most common in men between the ages of 15 and 49.  The risk also increases in men who have a family history of the cancer.

Treatment

• surgical removal of the affected testicle/s
• chemotherapy
• radiotherapy

If caught early, treatment can be curative and the survival rate is 95%.

Testing for testicular cancer

A regular hands-on approach is recommended.  So give your testicles a good feel and if you think something doesn’t feel right go and see your GP.

How can we help?

Unfortunately, cancer can be misdiagnosed or diagnosed too late and this can have a devastating effect on you and your family.  If you consider there was a delay in diagnosing or treating your symptoms, it would be wise to seek legal advice to determine whether you might have a case for clinical negligence.

Our experts have plenty of experience in helping people win compensation for cancer related clinical negligence, so if you would like to talk to a member of our specialist team please contact us for a confidential and free discussion today.