November marks Men’s Health Awareness Month and serves as a reminder to promote conversations about the prevalence of male cancers in SA.

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According to Old Mutual’s personal cover claim statistics, 2020 saw a 6.5% increase in the overall number of cancers claims in men across all claim categories year on year.

Cancer and tumours ranked as a leading illness within the severe illness category, second only to cardiovascular disorders.

John Kotze, retail protection product head at Old Mutual, said prostate and testicular cancer claims accounted for 17% of all cancer claims in 2020, with prostate cancer making up the lion’s share at 96%.

Global research shows prostate cancer as the second most frequent cancer men suffer from after lung cancer and was the fifth leading cause of cancer death among men in 2020.

In SA, Cansa reported that one in 17 South African men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in their lifetime.

Prostate cancer is more likely to develop in men over 40, carrying a global average diagnosis age of 66 years old.

This was supported by Old Mutual’s claim figures in 2020, which showed the majority of male cancer claimants in the severe illness category ranged between 20 and 69 years, with an average age of 58.

The group’s claims statistics also revealed a drop in the number of testicular cancer claims.

Kotze highlighted this could be a result of increased early detection of this type of cancer.

However, he warned of a potential link between prostate and testicular cancer, as shown in a study by the American Society of Clinical Oncology.

The study suggested men with a history of testicular cancer may be at higher risk of developing prostate cancer in their lifetime.

“Men’s Health Awareness Month is a welcome reminder to men around the world to take better care of their health and bodies,” said Kotze.

“Although male cancers are seen as an illness, usually associated with older men, it is important to remember that genetics, family history and race are all risk factors that cannot be helped and may cause cancers to develop at an earlier age.”

While the prognosis for male cancers is good if diagnosed and treated early, the financial impact of managing cancer is often overlooked.

“Cancer treatment and recovery can result in extended periods away from work that can lead to a loss of income at a time when additional unforeseen costs are being incurred,” said Kotze.

“This is why your financial health is an equally important consideration when it comes to pro-active health management.”