Men’s Health Myths and Facts: What You Need to Know

When it comes to health, bad or misleading information can be just as harmful as being sick—especially for men. Social pressures and common myths often shape how men think about their health. These beliefs can make it harder for them to ask for help, talk about their feelings, or get regular checkups.

In a recent Cleveland Clinic survey, about 60% of men said they wait as long as possible before going to the doctor. Another 20% admitted they haven’t always been fully honest with their doctors.

Avoiding the doctor, leaving out important details, and believing incorrect health information can all lead to serious problems. In recognition of Men’s Health Week this June, we’re breaking down some common myths about men’s health and encouraging men to take better care of both their bodies and their minds.

Myth 1: More men die from prostate cancer than from any other cancer.

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths for both men and women in the United States. For men, prostate cancer is the most common type of cancer and the second leading cause of cancer death.

The American Cancer Society says that about 1 in 8 men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer during their lifetime, and about 1 in 44 men will die from it. Prostate cancer is rare in men under age 40, but the risk increases quickly after age 50.

Myth 2: Men do not get breast cancer.

Most people think of breast cancer as a disease that only affects women. But men can get breast cancer too—and some men die from it. The American Cancer Society estimates that, in the United States, about 2,670 men will be diagnosed with invasive breast cancer, and around 530 men will die from the disease this year.

Right now, the chance of a man developing breast cancer is about 1 in 726. This risk can be higher for some men, especially those with a family history of breast cancer, certain inherited genes, lifestyle factors, or other health conditions. On average, men are about 72 years old when they are diagnosed.

Myth 3: Osteoporosis doesn’t affect men.

Osteoporosis is the most common bone disease in the United States. While women are more likely to develop it, men can get osteoporosis too. The National Osteoporosis Foundation reports that about 2 million men in the U.S. already have osteoporosis, and another 12 million are at risk.

For men over age 50, up to 1 in 4 will break a bone because of osteoporosis.

Myth 4: Men don’t experience menopause.

As men get older, their hormone levels change, but not the same way they do in women. The term “male menopause” is sometimes used to describe a drop in testosterone levels that happens with age.

In men, this change happens slowly—usually about a 1% decrease each year after age 40, according to the Mayo Clinic. These changes can affect sexual health, energy levels, mood, and sleep.

Hormone changes can also lead to physical differences, such as increased body fat, hair loss, or tenderness in the chest area.

Myth 5: Colorectal cancer is a man’s disease, and it can’t be prevented.

Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer in both men and women in the United States. For men, the lifetime risk of developing colorectal cancer is about 1 in 24, and for women, it’s about 1 in 26.

The good news is that most colorectal cancer can be prevented. It usually starts as a small growth called a polyp, which may not cause symptoms at first. Screening tests, like a colonoscopy, can find these polyps early so a urologist can remove them before they turn into cancer.

You can lower your risk by starting regular screenings at age 45. Finding colorectal cancer early can make a huge difference when it comes to a patient's treatment and eventual outcome.

Raising Awareness of Men’s Health Issues

Clearing up myths about men’s health isn’t just about sharing the right information—it can help save lives. Social expectations and stigma often keep men from going to the doctor, being honest about their health, or taking steps to prevent illness.

Simple actions, like regular checkups and cancer screenings with your North Oaks provider, can help you improve your health now and prevent more serious problems later. Taking your health seriously today can lead to a longer, healthier life.

To schedule an appointment with Northshore Urological Associates, call (985) 230-2778.

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