The number of men surviving cancer is said to be on the rise, according to the Irish Cancer Society.

New figures released as part of Men’s Health Week show that five year survival rates for prostate cancer were at 90.6% from 2008 to 2012.

That is up from 68.9% on the previous records from the late 90’s.

Five year survival for testicular cancer is now at 95.7% up from 90.3% between 1994 to 1999.

The Irish Cancer Society, the Marie Keating Foundation, Cancer Focus Northern Ireland and the Men’s Health Forum have joined forces for the week to highlight cancer incidence and survival among men.

Kevin O’Hagan, Cancer Prevention Manager at the Irish Cancer Society said: “Men’s Health Week offers men an opportunity to take a moment to consider their lifestyle. It’s a good time to make changes which will have a positive impact on your health. We now know that there are things men can do to reduce their risk of cancer.

“By following the European Code Against Cancer, the risk of cancer can be reduced by up to 50%.”

The European Code Against Cancer:

1. Avoid smoking or using tobacco products

2. Avoid second-hand smoke

3. Be a healthy weight

4. Be physically active

5. Have a healthy diet

6. Avoid alcohol

7. Avoid too much sun

8. Avoid pollutants

9. Avoid Radon

10. Advice for women – breastfeed your baby and avoid HRT

11. Get vaccinations

12. Get screened for cancer