Prostate Cancer: What Men Need to Know

September is Prostate Cancer Awareness Month. One in seven American men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in their lifetime. That's a pretty staggering statistic, and it's one that underscores the importance of knowing about prostate cancer. This type of cancer is the second most common kind in men, and it can be deadly if not caught early enough. In this blog post, we will discuss what men need to know about prostate cancer. We'll cover symptoms, treatment options, and ways to reduce your risk of developing the disease.

 

Symptoms

Prostate cancer usually develops slowly, and most men who have it will never know they have it. However, there are some symptoms that may be indicative of the disease. These include urinary problems, such as difficulty urinating or a need to urinate more frequently. You may also experience pain or stiffness in the lower back, hips, or pelvis. If you notice any of these symptoms, it's important to see a doctor right away for further testing.

 

Treatment

There are several treatment options available for prostate cancer. The type of treatment recommended will depend on the stage of the cancer and other factors. Surgery is an option for some men, while others may require radiation therapy or hormone therapy. In some cases, active surveillance may be recommended, which involves closely monitoring the cancer without immediately starting treatment.

 

Prevention

 

Lifestyle

There are also some lifestyle changes you can make to reduce your risk of developing prostate cancer. These include maintaining a healthy weight, eating a healthy diet, and getting regular exercise. You should also avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption. If you have a family history of prostate cancer, you may be at higher risk and should talk to your doctor about ways to reduce your risk.

 

Screening

Screening for prostate cancer is an important part of maintaining men's health. Prostate cancer is also one of the most treatable cancers if it is caught early. As a result, regular screenings are recommended for all men over the age of 50.

Age 50 for men who are at average risk of prostate cancer and are expected to live at least 10 more years

Age 45 for men at high risk of developing prostate cancer. This includes African Americans, Caribbean men of African ancestry, and men who have a first-degree relative (father or brother) diagnosed with prostate cancer at an early age (younger than age 65)

Age 40 for men at even higher risk (those with more than one first-degree relative who had prostate cancer at an early age)

The best way to screen for prostate cancer is with a digital rectal exam and a PSA blood test. During the digital rectal exam, the doctor will check for any lumps or abnormalities in the prostate gland. The PSA test measures the level of prostate-specific antigen in the blood. A high PSA level can be an indicator of prostate cancer. Together, these tests can help to catch prostate cancer early, when it is most treatable.

 

Prostate cancer is a serious disease, but it is one that can be treated successfully if caught early enough. By knowing the symptoms and risks factors, you can take steps to protect yourself from this disease. If you have any concerns, be sure to speak with your doctor so that you can get the information and treatment you need.

 

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with prostate cancer, the American Cancer Society can provide you with more information and resources. You can visit their website at cancer.org. They also have a 24/hour live chat service that can provide support and information.

 

This blog post is intended to provide general information about prostate cancer. It is not medical advice, and we recommend that you speak with your doctor if you have any specific concerns. Remember, knowledge is power! By understanding prostate cancer, you can take steps to protect yourself and your loved ones. If you would like to schedule an appointment with Spring + Heights Hospital, please visit our website for more information.