Only 26 per cent of men regularly go to their GPs for check-ups, according to a survey exploring men's understanding of the risks of cancer.
The survey found that less than half the men surveyed (47 per cent) were aware that prostate cancer is the most common male cancer.
Nearly one in three men (29 per cent) also said that they do nothing when worried about their own health because they think the problem will go away.
The survey was conducted by the Irish Cancer Society (ICS) as part of the organisation's annual Men's Cancer Action Week campaign.
Speaking today, the ICS chairman, Professor John Armstrong, said: "If men become aware of any symptoms that might be related to cancer they should discuss these with their GP without delay".
However, the survey found that only 11 per cent of men said they would recognise possible warning signs of cancer.
With approximately 4,000 cases of prostate, lung and bowel cancer diagnosed every year Prof Armstrong warned that early detection was vital.
Prof Armstrong said: "Early detection of cancer gives the best chance of successful outcome and long term survival.
"Men need to increase their daily intake of fresh fruit and vegetables, eat a range of foods high in fibre, increase physical activity and limit the intake of fatty foods and moderate the amount of alcohol they drink".