While cancer can occur at any age and affect anyone, certain types are more common in elderly gentlemen. Recognizing these cancers and their key symptoms is crucial. As a caregiver, staying informed can help you identify early warning signs and encourage your elderly loved one to seek a diagnosis before the cancer becomes more advanced.
Working closely with a home care assistance team can provide additional support, ensuring your loved one gets the attention and care they need during such critical times.
Four Cancers That Most Commonly Affect Men
Skin Cancer
While skin cancer can affect both men and women, it is the most common type of cancer in the United States, and thus the most common type of cancer that men get. It is caused by the ultraviolet radiation from the sun and can happen to anyone with any skin color. Skin cancer is often the easiest to detect and treat, but catching it early is important.
Skin Cancer Symptoms
- A new growth on the skin that looks like a raised mole.
- An old mole that suddenly changes color, shape, or texture.
- A sore on the skin that won’t heal.
- A painful or itchy skin growth.
Prostate Cancer
About 1 in 8 men will develop prostate cancer, and it is the second leading cause of death from cancer for men. It is most often diagnosed after the age of 65.
Prostate Cancer Symptoms
- Seeing blood in urine or semen.
- Needing to urinate frequently.
- Struggling to start urinating.
- Waking up to urinate at night.
Colorectal Cancer
Most colorectal cancers start with a group of cells called a polyp growing in the colon or rectum. If caught early enough through diagnostic screening, the polyp can be removed before it becomes cancerous.
Colorectal Cancer Symptoms
- A change in bowel habits.
- Blood in the stool.
- Cramping and gas in the belly area.
- Fatigue and weight loss without any other known causes.
Lung Cancer
For men in the United States, lung cancer is the most common type of cancer and the leading cause of death due to cancer. While people who have never smoked can get cancer, its most common cause comes from having a history of smoking or using tobacco products.
Lung Cancer Symptoms
- A persistent cough that doesn’t go away.
- Chest pain.
- Shortness of breath.
- Coughing up blood.
- Extreme fatigue.
Regular Doctor Visits Catch Cancers Early
Even if your loved one is feeling great, encouraging them to undergo regular recommended screenings is crucial. These screenings can help him and his doctor catch any potential cancer concerns early, before they become too serious to treat.
Over the years, advancements in treatment have significantly improved outcomes for cancers detected at an early stage. While an initial diagnosis can be daunting, no matter the stage, catching cancer early gives you and your loved one a better chance at successful treatment and recovery.
A home care assistance team can also provide the support and guidance needed during this time, ensuring your loved one feels cared for every step of the way.
Getting Help During Cancer Treatment from Home Care Assistance
If the worst happens and the man in your life has cancer, helping him to prepare for treatment and recovery is important as a caregiver. You may be able to be there at all times for him, but if you need help, consider hiring a home care assistance team to step in once treatment begins.
A home care assistance team can focus on home care needs while your loved one focuses on his recovery, and you focus on your care for him. Home care assistance providers can be an important part of your loved one’s cancer recovery team.
If you or someone you know needs Home Care Assistance in Granite Falls, MN, contact Adara Home Health. We provide quality and affordable home care services for many fragile or senior members in the communities we serve. Call us at (888) 525-7742 for more information.
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