The importance of early detection
Men's health refers to health issues that are specific to the male anatomy. Some of the most important health issues facing men are cancers such as prostate and testicular cancers. If detected early these cancers can often be successfully treated. A healthy lifestyle may also help prevent them.

By knowing what symptoms to look out for and are alert to the warning signs of prostate and testicular cancers they can be detected and treated appropriately. It is therefore important that men visit their doctor on a regular basis so that they may be screened for these cancers.

Be proactive
The Cancer Association of South Africa (CANSA) says women have for years been encouraged to detect female cancers, such as breast cancer, early. CANSA believes men should also be more proactive in the fight against male cancers through conducting self-examinations and having annual prostate specific antigen (PSA) blood tests.

Screening
The organisation advises men between the ages of 15 and 40 years of age to examine their testicles for pea-size lumps, which could reveal testicular cancer. This should be done monthly and can be done after a bath or shower.

Those who are over the age of 50 should go for a PSA blood test for prostate cancer, the most common of all male cancers, at their doctor. A PSA blood test, a digital rectal examination, an ultrasound, biopsy and urine test may all used to detect prostate cancer. Once test results are available, the doctor will notify the patient and if needed, refer him to a specialist for further investigations.

What to watch for
According to CANSA men should be alert to the following warning signs:

·         Difficulty passing urine

·         Passing urine more frequently

·         Urgent need to urinate

·         A feeling that the bladder has not emptied

·         Pain or burning feeling when passing urine

·         Blood in urine

·         Any of the above combined with pain in the lower back, upper thighs or pelvic area.

Even though these symptoms may just indicate an infection, they may also be the onset of prostate cancer, so it is important to have them investigated by your doctor.

Enlarged prostate
Another common condition affecting men, particularly older men, is enlarged prostate, which is also known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). This is a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate and it affects more than half of all men over the age of 60.

Although BPH is a common health problem, many men lack awareness and understanding about the condition. Common symptoms of BPH, including frequent urination (especially at night), weak urine flow, pain or burning during urination and starting or stopping during urination, can have a devastating impact on their quality of life. Treatment options for BPH typically involve medication or a surgical procedure. A minimally invasive surgical treatment is also available at some centres.

Healthy lifestyle
Healthy lifestyle choices may help to prevent many medical conditions that affect men. It is therefore important to start making healthy lifestyle choices today. Eating a healthy diet, getting some exercise, quitting smoking and heavy drinking can all help to ensure that you stay healthy.

An investment in the future
Remember taking care of your health is an investment in you and your family's future. Educate yourself about men's health issues and visit the doctor should you have any health concerns. Having an annual medical check up, especially if you have a family history of cancer, can help you to detect this disease early enough for treatment that may just save your life