September is Prostate Cancer Awareness Month
When it comes to your health, you can never be too careful. As we age, the risk of developing certain medical conditions may increase, emphasizing the importance of regular screening appointments and a more proactive approach to wellness. For men, one of the main health concerns to be aware of is prostate cancer. In honor of Prostate Cancer Awareness Month this September, the healthcare providers at Abraham Family Medicine wanted to take some time to inform our readers about the impact of prostate cancer and the importance of screening.
First, let us focus on a few of the most relevant prostate cancer statistics to help express the importance of prostate cancer awareness. According to the American Cancer Society, about 164,690 new cases of prostate cancer will be diagnosed in the US this year. They estimate roughly 29,430 prostate cancer deaths in 2018, making it the second most deadly form of cancer for men behind lung cancer. About 1 in every 9 men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer during his lifetime, however it is far more common in older men. Almost 60% of total cases are diagnosed in men aged 65 or older, and it is especially rare for men under 40.
The good news is that relative to other forms of cancer, the survival rates for prostate cancer patients are actually very high. The estimated 5-year relative survival rate from prostate cancer is 99%. The estimated 10-year relative survival rate is 98%. The estimated 15-year relative survival rate is 96%. However, it’s important to remember that the survival rate may decrease for cases that are diagnosed in later stages when the cancer has spread to the lymph nodes, bones, or other organs.
Since early detection is so important in the fight against prostate cancer, regular screening appointments are essential for men. We recommend beginning regular prostate exams around age 50, though men with a family history or higher risk of prostate cancer should begin at age 40. Prostate cancer screening begins with a blood test called a prostate specific antigen (PSA) test. PSA’s are proteins produced naturally by the prostate. Higher-than-normal PSA levels can be an indication of prostate cancer or less serious issues like an enlarged prostate or prostate infection. There is also a rectal exam, where a doctor physically inspects the prostate to detect any bumps or hard areas that may need to be tested for cancer.
Since prostate cancer is so common, it’s important for men to understand their risk and be prepared if they should receive a positive diagnosis. For men with prostate cancer, it’s critical to maintain a positive outlook and understand that in the vast majority of cases, prostate cancer is treatable and not life-threatening. For more information on prostate cancer or to schedule your screening appointment today, please contact Abraham Family Medicine. Our office is located in Snellville, not far from Grayson, Dacula, and Lilburn.
