King Charles's diagnosis shines spotlight on common cancers in men

British monarch King Charles III has been diagnosed with cancer while undergoing a hospital procedure for prostate enlargement, said Buckingham Palace in a statement. 

Although a specific type of cancer has been identified, the exact nature of it remains undisclosed. 

“During The King’s recent hospital procedure for benign prostate enlargement, a separate issue of concern was noted. Subsequent diagnostic tests have identified a form of cancer,” the palace said in a statement. 

The treatment has begun and as a result King Charles will be delaying his public duties, the Palace said.

The diagnosis has brought spotlight to common types of cancer in men. Early detections remain the key to treat many types of cancer.

Part of the reproductive system in men, the prostate makes fluid for semen and is located below the bladder. Men above 50s are at higher risk of enlarged prostates, however, the condition is not linked to cancer.

The symptoms of an enlarged prostate are frequent urination, trouble in urination, and inability to completely empty the bladder. 

Men are more at risk of developing cancer as compared to women. 

Men have a one in two chance of being diagnosed with cancer during their lifetimes as for women, the chance is one in three, as per National Cancer Institute. 

An analysis by the institute suggests certain biological differences between the two sexes could account for the imbalance, rather than lifestyle factors like smoking and alcohol use, body mass index (BMI) and height, physical activity, diet, medications, and medical history.