Movember is all about raising awareness of the health challenges men face, from mental wellbeing to conditions that often go unnoticed. Earlier this month, we explored why many men find it difficult to reach out for support with their mental health, which you can read here.
This week, we are continuing the conversation by focusing on men’s physical health, especially conditions that can develop quietly and benefit from early checks. In this blog, we look at different health conditions that can more commonly affect men, why they matter and how early awareness can make a real difference.
The Hidden Gaps in Men’s Health
In the UK, several mental and physical health conditions affect men more often than women. Men can experience poorer outcomes for a range of issues, including certain cancers, heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and suicide.
Research from Healthwatch England shows that many men are also missing out on simple opportunities to monitor their health, such as NHS health checks or prostate-specific antigen (PSA) tests. A lack of confidence, uncertainty about eligibility and misconceptions about screening all contribute to men avoiding routine appointments.
Data shows there is still a noticeable hesitation among many men when it comes to checking symptoms or starting health conversations. Much like with mental health, many grow up being encouraged to “stay strong”, keep quiet or simply get on with things. When it comes to physical health, this silence can delay treatment and lead to more serious outcomes. Opening up early and seeking advice when something feels unusual can make a significant difference.
Cancers that more commonly affect men in the UK
What is prostate cancer?
Prostate cancer is the cancer of the prostate, a small, walnut-sized gland that sits underneath the bladder and surrounds the urethra, which is the tube that carries urine (wee) out of the body. The prostate’s main job is to help make semen – the fluid that carries sperm.
Who is most at risk?
You need a prostate gland to get prostate cancer, so it mostly affects men, but also affects trans women and non-binary people who were born with male organs. The risk of developing prostate cancer depends on a wide range of different factors. These include:
Generally, prostate cancer is most common in older men. On average, each year around 35 out of 100 (around 35%) new cases are in men aged 75 and over. In addition to this, prostate cancer is more common in black men than in white men, and less common in Asian men.
Common symptoms
Prostate cancer often develops with no noticeable symptoms because it usually begins on the outer part of the prostate, away from the urethra. Symptoms tend to appear only once the cancer has grown or spread, which is why early checks are so important.
When symptoms do occur, they may include the following:
What is testicular cancer?
Testicular cancer is when abnormal cells in a testicle start to divide and grow in an uncontrolled way. The testicles are part of the male reproductive system and produce sperm and testosterone.
Who is most at risk?
In the UK, around 2,400 men are diagnosed with testicular cancer each year. It is more common in men in their early 30s and becomes less common as they get older. However, it can affect anyone who has testicles.
Trans women can also develop testicular cancer if they haven’t had an operation to remove their testicles (orchidectomy).
Common symptoms
Testicular cancer can cause a range of symptoms, starting with changes within the testicle itself. These include:
If the cancer has spread to the lymph nodes or other parts of the body, symptoms may also include:
If you spot any of these changes, speak to a medical professional as soon as you can. Most of the time it is nothing serious, but getting checked quickly is always the safest option.
The Importance of Early Diagnosis
Spotting any cancer early saves lives. Diagnosing cancer before it grows and spreads increases the chances of successful treatment.
In the UK, around 55,300 men are diagnosed with prostate cancer each year and it remains the most common cancer in men. For testicular cancer, approximately 2,400 new cases are recorded each year in the UK, but survival rates exceed 95% when the disease is treated early.
NHS England also highlights that early diagnosis is key to cancer survival as it results in improved long-term survival and improved quality of life. In addition to this, diagnosing cancer earlier means more treatment options and better health outcomes.
Where to Find Support
There are several trusted organisations that offer information, guidance and support for anyone concerned about prostate or testicular cancer. If something doesn’t feel right, your first step should always be to speak to your GP. You can also find reliable advice and resources from:
These organisations provide everything from symptom information to specialist helplines, making it easier for men to get the support they need.
Conclusion
Prostate cancer and testicular cancer can develop with few or no early symptoms, which is why awareness and routine checks make such a meaningful difference. Understanding the symptoms, knowing your personal risk and speaking up when something feels unusual can help issues get picked up sooner.
Movember is a reminder that men’s health deserves attention all year round, not just in November. Small actions, from checking in with your GP, to talking openly with the people around you, can lead to earlier diagnoses and better outcomes. Taking charge of your health today could make a real difference tomorrow.