Cancer prevention

Prevention is crucial


In Belgium, prostate cancer is the most common form of cancer in men, with approximately 12,732 new cases in 2022.

In addition to prostate cancer, lung cancer and colon cancer are also among the most common types of cancer in men. Early detection remains crucial, as it significantly increases the chances of successful treatment.

Regular screening and medical consultations are essential for early diagnosis, especially for high-risk groups such as older men and men with a family history of cancer. Raising awareness of the importance of early detection is a key factor in improving survival rates for these types of cancer.

Prostate cancer and testicular cancer: the importance of prevention and screening

Preventing prostate cancer

Prostate cancer is one of the most common forms of cancer in men, especially after the age of 50. Although it is not always possible to prevent this type of cancer, there are ways to reduce the risk and detect the disease at an early stage, thereby increasing the chances of recovery.

Certain factors increase the risk of prostate cancer:

  • Age: the risk increases from the age of 50.
  • Family history: If a close relative (father, brother) has had prostate cancer, the risk is higher.
  • Ethnicity: Men of African descent have a higher risk of developing this type of cancer.
  • Genetic abnormalities: Men with a mutation in the BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene (also associated with breast cancer in women) have an increased risk of developing prostate cancer.

Prevention and screening

Although there is no foolproof way to prevent prostate cancer, a healthy lifestyle can help reduce the risk. Here are some tips for taking good care of your prostate:

  • Eat a balanced diet: A diet rich in fruit, vegetables, and fish can contribute to good prostate health. Limit fatty and processed foods.
  • Maintain a healthy weight: being overweight can increase the risk of various types of cancer, including prostate cancer.
  • Regular exercise: Regular physical activity can help reduce risks and improve overall health.
  • Regular screeningIt is recommended that you talk to your doctor about prostate cancer screening from the age of 50, or earlier if you have risk factors (family history or ethnic background). Screening may include the following:
    • A rectal examination to check the size and shape of the prostate.
    • A PSA (prostate-specific antigen) blood test, which can detect prostate-related abnormalities.

Early screening for high-risk patients

If you have a family history of prostate cancer or are a carrier of a BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutation, you are advised to start screening earlier, generally from the age of 45 or as advised by your doctor. Early screening can help detect cancer before symptoms appear, which means faster treatment and a better chance of recovery.

Why is screening important?

Prostate cancer often develops slowly and does not initially show any symptoms. Screening can detect the disease at an early stage, before symptoms appear, which increases the chances of recovery. If you are over 50 or have a family history of prostate cancer, it is important to consult your doctor to discuss screening options.

Prevention of testicular cancer


Testicular cancer is rarer, but mainly affects young men between the ages of 15 and 40. The good news is that this type of cancer has a very high cure rate, especially if it is detected early.

Risk factors

Risk factors for testicular cancer include:

  • Family history: If a family member has had testicular cancer, the risk is slightly higher.
  • Personal history of testicular cancer: if you have already had cancer in one testicle, the risk for the other testicle is increased.
  • Cryptorchidism (undescended testicle): Men whose testicles did not descend at birth are at higher risk.

Prevention and self-examination

There is no foolproof method for preventing testicular cancer, but self-examination can help you detect a problem early on. Here are a few tips:

  • Testicular self-examinationIt is recommended that men perform a testicular self-examination once a month. This allows any abnormalities to be detected quickly. To perform a self-examination:
    • Do this after a warm shower, as the heat relaxes the scrotum.
    • Hold each testicle between your thumb and fingers and gently feel for lumps, masses, or changes in size or consistency.
    • Consult a doctor immediately if you notice any unusual lumps, swelling, or pain.
  • Healthy lifestyle: As with prostate cancer, a healthy lifestyle can contribute to overall health and reduce the risk of cancer. A balanced diet and regular exercise are recommended.

Why is self-examination important?

Testicular cancer is often discovered by the patient himself. Regular self-examination allows abnormalities to be detected quickly, increasing the chances of treatment and recovery. If you notice even the slightest change, it is important to consult your doctor immediately.