September marks Prostate Cancer Awareness Month and Houston Methodist West Hospital is urging men of all ages to learn the risk factors, take proactive steps for screenings, and prioritize important conversations about prostate health.

DID YOU KNOW?

• Prostate cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death among American men.

• An estimated 1 in 8 men will face a prostate cancer diagnosis in their lifetime.

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

• Although 60% of cases occur in men 65 years or older, an increasing number are being diagnosed in their 40s and 50s.

• Early prostate cancer stages often have no symptoms, which is why routine screenings are essential.

• Not all cases require immediate treatment. Active monitoring can sometimes be the best option.

“Detecting the disease early gives patients the best chance and reduces the chance of the cancer spreading,” said Dr. David Mobley, urologist at Houston Methodist West. “Early detection also opens the door to utilize many noninvasive care options like HIFU, high-intensity focused ultrasound, which can effectively eliminate cancer cells without radiation or incisions. The treatment also has minimal side effects, allowing patients to recover more quickly and resume their normal lives.”

FIVE TIPS FOR PROSTATE HEALTH

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

2. Prioritize screenings: PSA tests are safe and critical for early detection.

3. Adopt a healthy lifestyle: Maintain a balanced diet and exercise routine. Reduce red meat and high-fat dairy consumption.

4. Know the symptoms: Urinary changes, blood in urine or semen, or persistent pelvic or back pain requires immediate medical attention.

5. Spread awareness: Encourage loved ones to stay informed and proactive.

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.

ABOUT HOUSTON METHODIST WEST HOSPITAL

Houston Methodist West Hospital is committed to leading medicine in the Katy and West Houston communities by delivering the Houston Methodist standard of unparalleled safety, quality, service and innovation. The growing campus offers 271 beds and access to the most innovative medical and surgical care available, including robotic and minimally invasive surgery, full-spectrum heart care, state-of-the-art imaging, comprehensive cancer care, childbirth center with a level III NICU, neurology and neurosurgery, orthopedics and sports medicine, outpatient rehabilitation and 24/7 emergency services. For more information, visit houstonmethodist.org/west.