According to the American Cancer Society, approximately one in seven men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer during their lifetime. This sobering fact makes it important to learn about prostate health and how to be proactive with healthy lifestyle choices and regular screenings. The experienced urologists at Medical Center Urology in High Point, NC, share information about decreasing your risk and addressing potential concerns as early as possible.

Understanding Prostate Cancer

What Are the Risk Factors & Symptoms?

Several risk factors increase the likelihood of being diagnosed with the disease. The risk of prostate cancer increases dramatically after age 50, and genetic factors also increase the risk. In addition, a diet high in red meat or high-fat dairy products raises the chances of the cancer.

In its early stages, prostate cancer has few or no symptoms. But as it advances, signs of the disease include difficulty urinating or incontinence, blood in the semen or urine, erectile dysfunction, and feelings of numbness or weakness in the legs and feet. If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, make an appointment with a urology specialist.

Who Should Be Screened for Prostate Cancer? 

Although this disease can be deadly, with early detection, treatment success rates are high. Cancer screening using a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test should be offered to men at the following ages: 

• 50 years of age for men with an average risk expected to live 10 years longer
• 45 years of age for men at high risk
• 40 years of age for men at even higher risk

Retesting should occur every two years for men with lower PSA levels and yearly for those with higher levels. Your healthcare provider will discuss the risks and benefits of screening to allow you to decide on frequency.

What Are the Treatment Options?

Cancer treatment varies by individual circumstance. It can include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or immunotherapy. If you’re diagnosed with prostate cancer, your doctor will work with you to develop a plan.

This September, be proactive in your health and talk to your healthcare provider about whether you should be screened for prostate cancer. Medical Center Urology is the leading prostate cancer testing center in the Piedmont Triad region, and their urology specialists provide expert diagnosis and customized treatment for all patients. Call (336) 882-0220 to make an appointment today, and visit their website to learn more about the practice.