Cancer affects men in all walks of life. While men under 40 may think themselves invincible in terms of health, cancer does not discriminate by age. Even for cancers typically diagnosed in later years, like lung cancer, prevention begins early.

“Regardless of age, cancer prevention and early detection is key for all men,” said Kevin Doner, M.D., medical oncologist, Texas Oncology-Austin North and Cedar Park. “Habits that start early can contribute to future health, so limit risky behaviors and jumpstart good ones.”

Some surprising facts:

1. Cancer affects men in their 20s.
   Commonly diagnosed in men ages 20 to 39, testicular cancer has significantly increased in white American men over the last four decades, and has recently begun to rise in African American men. Most cases are discovered in early stages by self-exams. If treated early, testicular cancer patients have a 99 percent survival rate after five years.
2. Men get cancer-causing HPV.
   While human pappilomavirus has been linked to cervical cancer, the virus is not exclusive to women. According to a recent study, one in two men has the HPV infection, which can lead to anal, penile, and head and neck cancers. Having multiple sexual partners or unprotected sex increases risk.
3. Any tobacco causes cancer.
   Cigarettes, cigars, and smokeless tobacco can all trigger cancer development. In fact, cigar smokers are up to 10 times more likely to die from some cancers than nonsmokers.

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