Prostate Cancer Awareness: Key Facts and Early Detection

September marks Prostate Cancer Awareness Month. Prostate cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer among men in the United States, excluding non-melanoma skin cancer. It is also the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in men, following lung cancer, according to the American Association for Cancer Research.

Prostate cancer is a significant health concern for men, particularly as they age. The prostate, a small, walnut-shaped gland located below the bladder and in front of the rectum, plays a crucial role in the male reproductive system by producing seminal fluid, which nourishes and transports sperm. However, this essential gland can also be the site of cancer development, a condition that claimed the lives of 33,000 men in 2022 alone.

One of the key indicators used in the detection of prostate cancer is the prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test. The prostate gland produces PSA, a protein that can be measured through a simple blood test. Elevated PSA levels may suggest the presence of prostate cancer, but it’s important to note that high levels can also result from benign conditions such as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) or prostatitis. Therefore, while a PSA test is a valuable tool, it is often used in conjunction with other diagnostic methods to accurately detect prostate cancer.

In addition to the PSA test, another common screening method is the Digital Rectal Exam (DRE). During a DRE, a healthcare provider manually checks the prostate for any hard lumps or abnormalities that might indicate cancer. The American Urological Association recommends that prostate cancer screening be offered annually starting between the ages of 45 and 50. However, men who are at a higher risk of developing prostate cancer may be advised to begin screening earlier, between ages 40 and 45.

Several factors can increase a man’s risk of developing prostate cancer:

• Age: The likelihood of being diagnosed with prostate cancer rises with age. Most cases are found in men over the age of 50, with approximately 60% of prostate cancers occurring in those older than 65.
• Family History: A man’s risk increases if he has a first-degree relative, such as a father or brother, who has had prostate cancer.
• Ancestry: Men of Black or African ancestry are at a higher risk of developing prostate cancer.
• Genetics: A family history of breast cancer, particularly in close female relatives like mothers or sisters, may also increase the risk of prostate cancer.

For those who show signs of prostate cancer or have elevated PSA levels, further diagnostic procedures may be necessary to confirm the presence and aggressiveness of the cancer:

• Imaging: A prostate MRI can provide detailed images of the prostate and help identify any concerning areas that may require further investigation.
• Biopsy: The most definitive method for diagnosing prostate cancer is a prostate biopsy. During this procedure, a urologist takes samples from different areas of the prostate to determine if cancer cells are present. Biopsies can also reveal how aggressive the cancer is, which is crucial for determining the most appropriate treatment. In some cases, genetic testing of the biopsied tissue may be performed to identify specific mutations that could influence treatment options.

When prostate cancer is detected early, the chances of survival are remarkably high, with a 99% survival rate. This underscores the importance of regular screening, particularly for those who fall into higher-risk categories. By being proactive and undergoing annual PSA tests and DREs as recommended, men can significantly increase their chances of detecting prostate cancer early when it is most treatable.

Men are encouraged to discuss their individual risk factors with their healthcare provider and to establish a screening schedule that is right for them. Call 218. 545.1024 today to schedule your appointment with any of our providers in the Urology department including:  Urologist Brandon Reynolds, MD, Emily Hilgers, APRN, CNP, and Monica Larson, APRN, CNP. The Urology department specializes in treating disorders of the genitourinary tract, encompassing the kidneys, ureters, urinary bladder, urethra, and male reproductive organs.