A U.S. study published in Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention, based on 2.4 million cancer cases, found that men are more likely than women to be diagnosed with cancer after the disease has already spread to the lymph nodes or other organs.
The researchers compared cancers detected at an early stage with cancers that had already spread.
Several possible explanations
The researchers point to several possible reasons for the difference. One is that women generally visit the doctor more often than men, which may lead to symptoms being detected earlier.
Cancer screening may also play a role in certain types of cancer.
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At the same time, the researchers believe that, in some cases, men and women may be assessed differently within the healthcare system.
Why more men die from cancer
The study found that men are more likely to be diagnosed with advanced cancers of the tongue, thyroid gland, salivary glands, stomach, and melanoma.
Only a small number of cancer types showed men to be less likely than women to receive a late diagnosis.
The researchers believe the findings may help explain why more men than women die from cancer.
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When the disease is detected at a later stage, it is often more difficult to treat.
The researchers therefore emphasize that regular medical check-ups can help detect cancer earlier.
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