A new study says cancer incidence and mortality rates are expected to increase among men worldwide by 2050. The study, published in the American Cancer Society’s peer-reviewed journal Cancer, estimates an 84 percent increase in cancer cases and a 93 percent increase in cancer deaths among men worldwide between 2022 and 2050.

The study said the increase would mainly affect men aged 65 and above, and in countries and regions with a low or medium Human Development Index – an index that measures a country’s development in health, knowledge and living standards.

The study used data from the Global Cancer Observatory, which analyzed more than 30 different types of cancer in 185 countries and territories around the world to make demographic projections. According to experts, these figures would indicate about 5 million more deaths per year among men in 2050 than today.

Earlier this year, the World Health Organization predicted more than 35 million new cancer cases by 2050 — a 77 percent increase from the 20 million cases estimated in 2022. The survey included both men and women from 115 countries.

Why are men more susceptible to cancer?,

According to the researchers, there are several factors behind the projected increase, some of which include population ageing and growth, and changes in exposure to risk factors, with air pollution being a major driver of environmental risk factors. Various studies have also pointed to tobacco and alcohol consumption, as well as obesity.

Experts say the link between smoking and cancer is very clear. It causes at least 16 different types of cancer, the two most common of which are lung cancer and colon cancer. Cancers caused by smoking include those of the nose and sinuses.

Doctors say quitting smoking helps prevent lung cancer, with the risk of lung cancer after 10 years being about half that of a smoker. Other benefits of quitting include improved blood circulation, increased lung function, and a reduction in coughing and shortness of breath.

Other factors that help explain why men face higher rates of cancer than women include lower participation in cancer prevention activities such as screenings, testing and even treatment options, the study authors said. In a news release, lead study author Dr. Habtamu Meli Bizuayehu said improving access to cancer prevention, diagnosis and treatment options, particularly for older men, could help improve cancer outcomes.

Cancer symptoms that men often ignore

In the early stages, the symptoms of cancer are mostly vague and resemble the symptoms of other diseases. However, according to doctors, these should not be ignored and should be reported to your doctor immediately. Knowing what symptoms to look out for can help your doctor detect cancer early when it is most treatable.

Some of these are:

changes in the testicles

If you notice a change in the size of your testicles, find a lump, or your testicles feel swollen or extremely heavy – these signs should send you straight to a doctor.

Changes in bathroom habits

If you suddenly feel the need to go to the toilet frequently, or feel pain when you go, doctors say this could be a sign of bladder or prostate cancer.

Frequent indigestion

A prolonged, painful burning sensation in the throat or chest should not be ignored – even if you think it is due to eating spicy food. Don’t assume that regular indigestion or trouble swallowing is a normal part of ageing because it could be a sign of stomach cancer.

Painful cough

If you suffer from a persistent cough for more than three weeks, it could be a sign of lung cancer, whether you smoke or not.

Constant fatigue

If you are losing weight without changing your diet or exercise habits, you should see your doctor. Experts say that losing more than 2 kg of weight a week without any known reason can be a sign of pancreatic, stomach or lung cancer.

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