September is Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, and Houston Methodist West Hospital is encouraging men of all ages to learn the risk factors, understand the signs and symptoms of prostate cancer and have informed conversations with their doctors about screening.

Prostate cancer is the most common cancer among men and remains the second leading cause of cancer death among American men, according to the American Cancer Society.

· About one in eight men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer during their lifetime

· While six in ten cases occur in men 65 years or older, an increasing number are being diagnosed at younger ages

· African American men have a higher diagnosis risk and mortality rate compared to other racial groups

· Having a family history like a father or brother with prostate cancer more than doubles a man’s risk of developing the disease


While prostate cancer can be serious, early detection and advances in treatment continue to improve patient outcomes. More than 3.5 million men in the United States who have been diagnosed with prostate cancer are alive today.

“Many men don’t realize that early prostate cancer often causes no symptoms at all,” said Dr. Michael Brooks, a urologic oncologist at Houston Methodist West Hospital. “That’s why understanding your personal risk factors and screenings are so important because early detection in prostate cancer provide more treatment options and better outcomes.”

FIVE TIPS FOR PROSTATE HEALTH

1. Know your risk factors: Age, family history, race, diet and lifestyle all play a role.

2. Prioritize screenings: A simple PSA blood test is all it takes. PSA tests are safe and critical for early detection.

3. Adopt a healthy lifestyle: Maintaining a healthy weight, staying physically active and eating a balanced, nutritious diet by limiting red meat and high-fat dairy consumption can help reduce overall cancer risk.

4. Know the symptoms: Possible red flags include difficulty urinating, a weak urine stream, blood in urine or semen, erectile dysfunction, unexplained weight loss, unusual fatigue, and/or persistent pain in the hips, back and/or chest

5. Spread awareness: Encourage loved ones to stay informed and proactive. Early education and conversation can save lives.

“Prostate cancer is not a one-size-fits-all, and neither is screening or treatment,” Brooks said. “The best approach is one that takes into consideration each individual patient’s risk factors and overall health. Prostate Cancer Awareness Month is an excellent reminder for us all to initiate these conversations and get screened early.”

TAKE ACTION THIS SEPTEMBER

Houston Methodist West encourages men and their families to use Prostate Cancer Awareness Month as a reminder to schedule screenings and talk to their healthcare providers.

For more information or to schedule an appointment with a Houston Methodist West urologist, visit houstonmethodist.org/spg/urology/katy or call 832-522-8300.