Prevention is crucial
Cancer Prevention
, Urologist in Brussels
"Many cancers don't cause any symptoms at first. That's why early detection is your most powerful ally."
Dr. Sam Ward
In Belgium, prostate cancer is the most common cancer among men, with approximately 12,732 new diagnoses in 2022. Lung and colorectal cancers are also among the most common. The same principle applies to all of these types of cancer: early detection significantly increases the chances of successful treatment. Regular screening and medical follow-up are essential, especially for high-risk groups such as older men and men with a family history of cancer.
Key Points
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Prostate cancer is the most common cancer among men in Belgium (approximately 12,732 new cases in 2022).
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Early detection significantly increases the chances of recovery—many cancers do not show any symptoms at first.
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Risk factors for prostate cancer: age, family history, ethnic background, and BRCA mutations.
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Screening starting at age 50 (or at age 45 for those at increased risk): digital rectal exam and PSA blood test.
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Testicular cancer mainly affects young men (ages 15–40), has a very high cure rate, and is often detected through self-examination.
Why Early Detection Matters
Prostate cancer often develops slowly and does not cause any symptoms in the early stages. Screening can detect the disease at an early stage—even before symptoms appear—which greatly increases the chances of a cure. If you’re over 50 or have a family history of the disease, discuss your screening options with your doctor. Testicular cancer is often discovered by the patient himself. Regular self-exams allow you to notice abnormalities quickly, which improves the chances of successful treatment and recovery. If you notice even the slightest change, consult your doctor immediately.
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Prostate Cancer: Risk Factors
Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers among men, especially after age 50. Prevention isn’t always possible, but you can reduce your risk and detect the disease early, which increases the chances of a cure. Certain factors increase the risk:
- Age — the risk increases starting at age 50.
- Family history — having a close male relative (father, brother) with prostate cancer increases the risk.
- Ethnic background — men of African descent are at higher risk.
- Genetic abnormalities — a mutation in the BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene increases the risk.
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Prostate Cancer: Prevention and Screening
There is no foolproof way to prevent prostate cancer, but a healthy lifestyle can help reduce the risk:
- Eat a balanced diet: plenty of fruits, vegetables, and fish; limit fatty and processed foods.
- Maintain a healthy weight: being overweight increases the risk of various cancers.
- Exercise regularly: it reduces risks and improves overall health.
Starting at age 50, it’s best to discuss screening with your doctor, or sooner if you have risk factors. Screening may include a digital rectal exam (to assess the size and shape of the prostate) and a PSA blood test (prostate-specific antigen), which can detect abnormalities. If you have a family history of prostate cancer or a BRCA mutation, it’s best to start screening earlier—typically at age 45 or as advised by your doctor.
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Prostate Cancer: Risk Factors
Testicular cancer is less common, but it mainly affects young men between the ages of 15 and 40. The good news: this cancer has a very high cure rate, especially when detected early. Risk factors include:
- Family history: having a family member with testicular cancer slightly increases the risk.
- Personal history: having had cancer in one testicle increases the risk for the other.
- Cryptorchidism (undescended testicle): men whose testicles did not descend at birth are at higher risk.
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Prostate Cancer: Self-Examination
There is no foolproof way to prevent testicular cancer, but monthly self-exams can help detect a problem early. Here’s how to do it:
Do it after a warm shower. The warmth 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.
A balanced diet and regular exercise support your overall health and help further reduce your risk.