Prostate Health: What Men Need to Know
Randy Owen was 60 years old when he was diagnosed with prostate cancer. He’s not alone. One out of eight men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer during their lifetime.
Risk Factors
Some of the highest risk factors for prostate cancer include:
- Age: The risk of prostate cancer increases as men grow older.
- Race: African-American men have a higher risk of developing and dying from the disease.
- Family History: Men with a close family member, such as a father, uncle or brother, diagnosed with prostate cancer before age 65 have a greater risk.
- Diet: Eating foods that are high in animal fats increases the risk.
Symptoms
In its early stages, prostate cancer may have no signs or symptoms. That’s the reason it’s so important to talk to your primary care provider about your screening options. The following symptoms may indicate a more advanced form of the cancer. Talk to your primary care provider if these symptoms persist:
- Trouble urinating
- Decreased force in the urine stream
- Blood in the urine
- Blood in the semen
- Bone pain
- Losing weight without trying
- Erectile dysfunction
Screening
There are two screening tests for prostate cancer: a PSA blood test and a digital rectal exam. Before any screening begins, the American Cancer Society recommends that men first discuss their options with their healthcare provider in order to make an informed choice. This discussion should take place at:
- Age 50 for men who are at average risk
- Age 45 for men who are at high risk: African-Americans and men with a first-degree relative (father, uncle or brother) diagnosed with prostate cancer before age 65
- Age 40 for men who are at even higher risk: Have more than one first-degree relative who had prostate cancer before age 65
Sources: CDC, American Cancer Society