September is Prostate Cancer Awareness Month – Get Screened!
As September marks Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, Harris County Public Health (HCPH) wants to raise awareness about prevention to reduce the impact of this prevalent disease. Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers among men, but the risk can be significantly reduced through early detection and informed lifestyle choices.
Prostate cancer affects the prostate gland, a small organ located below the bladder in men. The prostate gland produces fluid that nourishes and transports sperm, making it an essential part of the male reproductive system. When the cells in the prostate gland start to grow uncontrolled, a tumor can form, leading to prostate cancer. This type of cancer usually progresses slowly and may not produce noticeable symptoms during its initial stages.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that approximately 13% of men in the U.S. will develop prostate cancer during their lifetime, and two to three men will die from it. Certain factors may increase a man’s chances of a diagnosis:
- Age (Almost all prostate cancer occurs in men 50 and over.)
- Race (Black men have a higher risk of being diagnosed.)
- Family history (You are at a higher risk if a close relative had prostate cancer as well as breast, ovarian, or pancreatic cancer.)
- Genetics (Certain gene mutations such as BRCA1 and BRCA2 might play a role.)
- Diet (Eating large amounts of red meat and processed foods can increase the risk.)
Prostate cancer symptoms differ between persons. Most men do not have symptoms at all. Although some of these symptoms may be caused by conditions other than prostate cancer, be sure to see your doctor right away if you have any of the following:
- Difficulty starting urination
- Weak or interrupted flow of urine
- Urinating often, especially at night
- Trouble emptying the bladder completely
- Pain or burning during urination
- Blood in the urine or semen
- Pain in the back, hips, or pelvis that doesn’t go away
- Painful ejaculation
Screening for prostate cancer aims to find the cancer early enough to treat and cure it. The two most common methods of detecting prostate cancer are a blood test called the prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test and a physical examination known as a digital rectal exam (DRE). If the results from either test are concerning, your doctor may recommend a biopsy to confirm a diagnosis of prostate cancer.
Taking care of your health can lower the chances of developing prostate cancer. This involves adopting healthy habits, such as eating a balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. You should also stay physically active and limit the amount of processed foods and red meat you consume.
Additionally, talk with your doctor to determine if screening is right for you. Scheduling routine check-ups and screenings with your healthcare provider is important to stay on top of your health. Early detection saves lives. For more information, visit the CDC’s Prostate Cancer page.