Prostate cancer is the second most common form of cancer among men and is one of the leading causes of death in men over the age of 60. While there is no cure for prostate cancer, early detection can go a long way in ensuring a positive outcome. Knowing the risk factors and what you can do to reduce your risk can help you stay ahead of the disease and be better prepared.
The most important way to detect prostate cancer is through screening. If a physician suspects a man of having prostate cancer, they will likely offer him a PSA (prostate-specific antigen) test, which measures the level of an antigen found in the blood that indicates abnormal levels of activity in the prostate. The test is simple and painless, yet can yield significant results.
In addition to the PSA test, there are other steps you can take to be proactive in detecting prostate cancer. Make sure to talk to your family doctor about your family’s history of cancer and ask whether you should be screened for prostate cancer. It’s also important to pay attention to any changes happening with your body, as they may be signs of prostate cancer. In general, you should look out for frequent urination, difficulty urinating, painful ejaculation, and pain in the pelvis, hips, or lower back.
If you are at an increased risk for prostate cancer or if changes occur with your body, speak to your doctor about any questions or concerns you may have. They can provide advice about what to do and what tests to take. You can also consult other medical professionals who specialize in prostate cancer to help you create a personalized health plan.
Not taking steps toward regular monitoring and early detection may lead to missing out on important information about the development of prostate cancer or the most effective treatments for it. Being aware of your risk factors and continuously doing what you can to stay up-to-date on your health are key to being proactive in prostate cancer detection.