Prostate Cancer Awareness
1:8 Men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in the USA
Unlike some other forms of cancer, a tumor in the prostate rarely shows any signs or symptoms. This makes getting screened a top priority to catch any issues early
Rare Symptoms
In very rare cases, prostate cancer can cause the following symptoms. You are advised to immediately contact your doctor for an evaluation if you experience any of the following:
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A need to urinate frequently, especially at night, some- times urgently
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Difficulty starting or holding back urination
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Weak, dribbling, or interrupted flow of urine
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Painful or burning urination
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Difficulty in having an erection
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A decrease in the amount of fluid ejaculated
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Painful ejaculation
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Blood in the urine or semen
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Pressure or pain in the rectum
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Pain or stiffness in the lower back, hips, pelvis, or thighs
Note that the above symptoms do not mean you have prostate cancer. It could be (Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia, also known as enlargement of the prostate) are benign diseases but can cause similar symptoms and are very common.
PSA Test
The first step in screening for prostate cancer is a prostate specific antigen (PSA) test, in which a small amount of blood is drawn from the arm and the level of PSA, a protein made by the prostate, is measured. Early detection is key will give you the choice to monitor a slow-growing cancer or start immediate treatment options.
Talk to your doctor about prostate screening options at:
Age 40: If you have a family history of prostate, breast, ovarian, pancreas, or other cancers, are Black, or have known BRCA 1/2 mutations
Age 45: If you have no family history of cancer and are not Black
