September is a time to raise awareness about one of the most common cancers affecting men in the United States – Prostate Cancer.

The prostate is a small gland located below the bladder and in front of the rectum. It surrounds part of the urethra and helps produce fluid that is part of semen. Prostate cancer develops when cells in the prostate grow abnormally. Many prostate cancers grow slowly and may not cause symptoms, while others can be more aggressive.

The good news is that prostate cancer is often highly treatable, especially when it is found before it has spread. Understanding your risk and talking with your healthcare provider about screening can help you make informed decisions about your health.

Know Your Risk

Age is the biggest risk factor for prostate cancer. The risk increases as men get older, with most prostate cancers diagnosed in men over age 65.

Other factors can also increase risk, including:

  • Having a father, brother or son who has had prostate cancer
  • Being Black
  • Having certain inherited genetic changes, such as mutations in the BRCA1 or BRCA2 genes
  • Having a strong family history of breast, ovarian, pancreatic or prostate cancer

If you have an increased risk, your health care provider may recommend beginning discussions about prostate cancer screening at a younger age. 

What Are the Symptoms?

Early prostate cancer often causes no symptoms. When symptoms do occur, they can include:

  • Difficulty starting urination
  • A weak or interrupted urine stream
  • Frequent urination, particularly at night
  • Difficulty completely emptying the bladder
  • Pain or burning during urination
  • Blood in the urine or semen
  • Pain in the back, hips or pelvis that doesn’t go away
  • Erectile dysfunction

These symptoms can also be caused by noncancerous conditions, such as an enlarged prostate or a urinary infection. However, persistent or unusual urinary symptoms should be discussed with a health care provider.

Should You Be Screened?

Unlike some cancer screenings, prostate cancer screening isn’t a simple “one-size-fits-all” recommendation. The decision to screen should be based on your age, risk factors, overall health and personal preferences. Screening generally involves a conversation with your health care provider about the potential benefits and risks of testing.

The two most commonly discussed screening tools are:

PSA blood test: Measures the level of prostate-specific antigen in the blood.

Digital rectal exam (DRE): A health care provider examines the prostate through the rectum to feel for abnormalities. Major health groups note that DRE is often used alongside a PSA test, though it is no longer recommended as a standalone screening tool due to limited evidence on its own

Because prostate cancer can grow slowly, screening can sometimes identify cancers that may never cause symptoms or threaten a person’s health. That’s why it’s important to discuss the potential benefits and risks of screening with your provider.

Take an Active Role in Your Health

There is no guaranteed way to prevent prostate cancer, but maintaining a healthy lifestyle can support your overall health. Most importantly, don’t be embarrassed to talk about prostate or urinary health. Changes in urination, sexual function or pelvic health are common reasons to see a healthcare provider, and addressing them early can help identify the cause and determine whether treatment is needed.

This Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, Know Your Risk

Prostate cancer doesn’t always announce itself with symptoms. Knowing your risk factors and having an informed conversation with your health care provider can help you make decisions about screening that are right for you.