Researchers call for end to male cancer taboos

Men are still less likely to talk about their health than women, meaning that diseases such as prostate cancer may not be detected early enough to provide effective cancer treatment, researchers have said.

According to the Institute of Cancer Research, a more varied approach is required to inform more men about the signs and symptoms of cancer.

Hannah Crabtree, a spokeswoman for the institute's Everyman campaign, cited figures from a recent survey by the group, which found that nearly one third of men are too embarrassed to speak to their male friends about prostate cancer concerns.

"We believe men are becoming more aware of prostate and testicular cancer, but further awareness is needed," she insisted.

"Testicular cancer is 99 per cent curable if it is caught in the early stages so awareness and early detection really can save lives."

More than 32,000 men are diagnosed with prostate cancer in the UK every year, making it the most common male cancer, and Ms Crabtree stressed that the campaign will "continue to use a varied approach to reach as many men as possible and break down any taboos surrounding male cancer".
   
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