September is Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, making it a good time to ask an important question: What should men know about prostate health?
According to the American Cancer Society, prostate cancer is the second most common cancer diagnosed in men, with approximately one in eight men developing it during their lifetime.
The good news is that when prostate cancer is caught early, it is highly treatable. That’s why regular prostate screenings are so important for men between the ages of 45 and 75.
Here are five common questions every man should know the answers to when it comes to prostate health.
1. Why Is Early Detection of Prostate Cancer So Important?
While prostate cancer is often slow-growing, early detection is crucial for successful treatment. Regular screenings, such as digital rectal exams and prostate-specific antigen (PSA) tests, can help identify potential issues before symptoms develop.
2. What Are the Risk Factors for Prostate Cancer?
Family history, age, race and diet are among the risk factors for prostate cancer.
- Men with a family history of prostate cancer have two times higher the risk of developing the disease.
- African American men and Caribbean men of African ancestry have a higher risk of developing prostate cancer compared to other racial groups.
- Prostate cancer is more likely to develop in men 65 and older.
- Prostate cancer is 99% treatable if detected early enough.
3. What Are the Treatment Options for Prostate Cancer?
Treatment for prostate cancer varies depending on the stage and aggressiveness of the disease. Options can include surgery, radiation therapy, hormone therapy and active surveillance.
At Upstate Urology at Mohawk Valley Health System (MVHS), Drs. Bhat and Goldberg utilize robotic surgery, which can help lessen a patient’s recovery time.
“I went in for a regular prostate screening and my PSA levels were elevated,” said Philippe Andre, a patient at Upstate Urology at MVHS.
“As a physician assistant, I understand the importance of early detection and early treatment. I also knew that Dr. Bhat is one of few urologists in the area utilizing robotic surgery, which is less invasive and allows for a faster recovery.
After Dr. Bhat performed the prostatectomy using robotic surgery to remove the cancer, my PSA levels returned to normal, I was back to work in a month and resumed all my normal activities just six weeks after the surgery.”
4. Can Lifestyle Choices Help Reduce Your Risk of Prostate Problems?
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle can help reduce the risk of prostate problems.
A balanced diet, regular exercise and avoiding excessive alcohol consumption are key factors that can help. In fact, evidence suggests individuals who maintain a healthy weight can be less at risk to develop cancer.
5. Where Can You Get a Free Prostate Cancer Screening?
Many community health centers have screening events for prostate cancer in September in honor of Prostate Cancer Awareness Month.
MVHS, in collaboration with Upstate Urology, is hosting a free prostate screening event throughout the month of September.
Patients like Philippe Andre encourage men to go and get screened.
“The takeaway is this,” Andre said, “men between the ages of 45 and 75 need to schedule regular prostate screenings and you need to understand your PSA levels.
I am living proof that early detection can prevent something worse.”
When Should Men Get Screened for Prostate Cancer?
For many men, prostate cancer has no symptoms in its early stages. That’s why routine screening is so important. Men ages 45 to 75 should talk with their healthcare provider about prostate cancer screening, especially if they have a family history of the disease or other risk factors.
Early detection can make all the difference.
About MVHS
The Mohawk Valley Health System (MVHS) is an integrated health care system serving the Mohawk Valley and surrounding communities. With a focus on quality, safety and patient-centered care, MVHS provides comprehensive services across a broad continuum of care to improve the health and well-being of the communities it serves.
