Healthy Men: With men having a higher chance of getting cancer, doctors push for more screenings

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (KRDO) -- Prostate is the second leading cause of cancer deaths in American men, behind lung cancer. And because men have a higher rate of getting cancer than men, it's important to know the risks and how routine check-ups can be crucial to staying healthy.

"Main cancer risks that men face include prostate cancer which is about 260,000 cases a year in the United States, lung cancer which is about 120,000 cases in the U.S. each year, and colon cancer which ranges from 50-60,000 cases per year," says Dr. Donald Setter, UCHealth family medicine physician.

Doctors have known for decades that men are more likely to develop cancer than women. Men have a one in two chance of being diagnosed with cancer during their lifetimes, while for women the chance is one in three according to the National Cancer Institute. Genetics and biological differences may be at play, so for men, screenings are critical.

"As part of the annual health check-up we can consult the male on his different screening options as it pertains to each one of these cancers," says Dr. Setter.

Dr. Setter says annual appointments are easy and in some cases can be life-saving.

"I would say to men who are hesitant on to come in for their screening to just schedule the appointment and just get done," says Dr. Setter. "The hardest part is walking in the door, but once you are here it becomes much easier to talk to your physician about these issues."

Cancer survival rates for men are much higher for those who get screened early. The earlier cancer is found, the better. Having a healthy lifestyle with a balanced diet and workout plan is important. Not smoking or drinking excessively can also help you reduce your risk of cancer.