While it largely develops in older men, prostate cancer can happen at any age. In fact, it’s the second cause of cancer death among men. Although that’s a startling statistic, the good news is that most men diagnosed with prostate cancer, especially in its early stages, can survive it. That’s why detecting this slow-growing cancer early, when it’s most treatable, is so important.
Since prostate cancer usually doesn’t cause noticeable symptoms, especially in early stages, the American Cancer Society offers suggestions on when conversations about prostate cancer screening should begin as a general rule. But in the event you do experience any of these symptoms, you should talk with your doctor right away:
- Back pain
- Blood in your urine
- Changes in your urine flow or frequency
- Pain while urinating
- Pelvic pain
When no symptoms are present, you should talk with your doctor about prostate cancer screening at:
- Age 40 for men at high risk (family history of prostate cancer, especially more than one close relative)
- Age 45 for men at high risk (African-American men or those with one close relative with prostate cancer)
- Age 50 for men at average risk
In observance of National Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, AdventHealth Gordon will offer free prostate cancer screenings on Wednesday, Sept. 25 from 4 to 5:30 pm at AdventHealth Medical Group Urology at Calhoun, located in Suite 201 at AdventHealth Gordon. The screening will consist of a free PSA lab draw and a digital rectal exam.
Limited space is available, and registration is required. To register for this free screening, please call Call706-879-5850.
