Get Healthy 502: Prostate Cancer Facts

Facts:

  1. Prostate cancer is common and is among the main causes of cancer-related death
    1. Second most commonly diagnosed cancer in men
    2. Screening may reduce the risk for advanced-stage prostate cancer
  2. Screening is done with a PSA test which is repeated every one to two years based upon risk factors.
    1. DRE may also be performed at that time.
  3. American Cancer Society screening guidelines:
    1. Age 50 (those at average risk with greater than 10 year expectancy)
    2. Age 45 for men at high risk:  Black men with a family history of prostate cancer, particularly in a first-degree relative who was diagnosed at age <65 years
    3. Age 40 for higher risk: more than one first degree relative with prostate cancer
  4. Screening should be performed based on professional judgment and patients values/symptoms.
  5. Important to discuss risk and benefits of screening with your provider
    1. If you do not have a primary care provider, find one.
  1. Symptoms may include:
    1. Interrupted urine flow
    2. Constant urge to urinate
    3. Frequent nighttime urination
    4. Blood in urine
    5. Chronic back pain
    6. Constipation
    7. Urine incontinence
    8. Painful urination

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