LONDON – Men are almost 40 per cent more likely than women to die from any type of cancer, according to research published yesterday. They are also about 70 per cent more likely to die from cancers that affect both men and women, excluding diseases such as breast cancer and prostate cancer.
Men are also far more likely to develop the disease in the first place.
The findings are based on cancer rates in the population in the UK, adjusted for age, and are part of a new report from the National Cancer Intelligence Network, Cancer Research UK and the Men’s Health Forum.
Researchers had expected men and women to be roughly equally as likely to develop and die from cancers that affect both sexes.
There is “no known biological reason” why men should be more likely to develop cancer and die, they said. But they suggested that “stereotypical” male behaviours – such as downplaying early symptoms, not visiting the doctor and having more unhealthy lifestyles – could be to blame.
The study, published to mark Men’s Health Week, found that men were 16 per cent more likely to develop any type of cancer in the first place.
Alan White, professor of men’s health at Leeds Metropolitan University and chair of the Men’s Health Forum, said: “The evidence shows that men are generally not aware that, as well as smoking, carrying excess weight around the waist, having a high alcohol intake and a poor diet and their family history all contribute to their increased risk of developing and dying prematurely from cancer.” – (PA)