Be Smart Stay Informed about Prostate Cancer

Many times we have what we think is a small symptom and we ignore it.  As time goes on we get use to it, or the symptom worsens and finally go to see a doctor.  Preventative medicine is the best way to stay informed about prostate cancer.

Statistics show that prostate cancer is the third most common cancer to cause death in men.  Prostate cancer forms in prostate gland, which lies below the bladder and produces semen.

If you have had or currently have pain with urination, or problems with leakage, pain with ejaculation, blood in urine or semen, or low back, hips or thigh pain, please see a doctor.  All of these symptoms could be caused by prostate cancer.

There are four stages of prostate cancer.  Staging determines how advanced the cancer is and helps to select proper treatment.
In stage I, the cancer is in the prostate only.  It is usually undetectable unless you have surgery for other reasons and they happen to find it.  Stage II is more advanced, but the cancer still remains in the prostate.  In stage III the cancer has spread out of the prostate and into nearby tissue.  Finally, in stage IV the cancer has spread to lymph nodes anywhere in the body, such as the lungs, liver, bones and bladder.

There are two simple tests to screen for prostate cancer.  The Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA), which is a blood test, and the Digital Rectal Exam (DRE).  The American Cancer society recommends that both screenings be given to men starting at the age of 50.  If you are at high risk or have family history of prostate cancer, the recommended age is 45.

Prevention is the best cure for prostate cancer.  Please stay informed and take time to do the screenings.