Prostate cancer is the most common cancer among men (after skin cancer). It affects the lives of millions of American men and their loved ones. Each year in the United States, more than 200,000 men are diagnosed with prostate cancer and over 30,000 die of this disease. These numbers rival those for breast cancer in women, yet education lags far behind. Early detection can save lives.

 

PROSTATE CANCER SCREENING

ProstAware evaluated the findings of the American Urological Association, the American Cancer Society, the Large Urology Group Practice Association, and the leading minds in the fields of urology, medical oncology, and radiation oncology.  

Based on this information, we recommend the following screening for the prostate:

  • Starting at age 40, all men should learn how to reduce their individualized risk of dying from prostate cancer.
  • All men should have a baseline screening at age 40.
  • Screening includes a simple blood test (PSA, or Prostate-specific Antigen) and a digital rectal exam.
  • Subsequent screening should be performed yearly for any male with the risk factors listed below.

 

PROSTATE CANCER RISK FACTORS

Risk factors for prostate cancer include the following:

  • Family history of prostate cancer
  • African-American race
  • PSA blood test that is higher than expected for one’s age
  • A rising PSA blood test, even if level is within normal range
  • Increasing age

 

PROSTATE CANCER SYMPTOMS

Our goal is to detect prostate cancer prior to development of any symptoms. However, you should alert your physician if any of the following symptoms occur:

  • Slow or frequent urinary stream
  • Painful urination
  • Blood in the urine
  • Pain or blood with ejaculation

 

HOW PROSTAWARE SPREADS THE MESSAGE

In an effort to generate more awareness about the importance of early detection for prostate cancer, ProstAware provides education in a number of ways, including:

  • Presenting public service announcements about prostate cancer to fans in attendance at Atlanta Falcon home games and at the Chick-fil-A Peach Bowl
  • Having educational displays at community festivals such as the Amplify Music Festival in Decatur
  • Staffing educational display booths at health fairs at businesses and churches
  • Making presentations at business and community meetings

Contact us at prostaware@prostaware.org to schedule a speaker or educational display for your meeting or organization.