Welcome to the Rural Cancer Health Blog. Our blog shares information on cancers affecting rural communities. Our mission is to provide the necessary resources for rural communities so that they can make informed decisions about their health. Follow the blog as we share the latest discoveries in cancer research, screening, and treatment.

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Prostate Cancer

 

Symptoms

Prostate cancer may cause no signs or symptoms in its early stages.

Prostate cancer that's more advanced may cause signs and symptoms such as:

  • Trouble urinating
  • Decreased force in the stream of urine
  • Blood in the urine
  • Blood in the semen
  • Bone pain
  • Losing weight without trying
  • Trouble keeping an erection

 

Risk Factors

  • Older age. It is most common after age 50
  • Race. Black/African American people have a greater risk than do people of other races
  • Family history
  • Obesity

 

Screening

Most medical organizations encourage men in their 50s to discuss the pros and cons of prostate cancer screening with their doctors. The discussion should include a review of your risk factors and your preferences about screening. You might consider starting the discussions sooner if you're a Black person, have a family history of prostate cancer or have other risk factors.

  • Digital rectal exam, a physical exam to evaluate the prostate
  • Prostate-specific antigen test

 

 

Prevention

  • Choose a healthy diet full of fruits and vegetables
  • Choose healthy foods over supplements
  • Exercise most days of the week
  • Maintain a healthy weight
  • Talk to your doctor about increased risk of prostate cancer

 

 

 

Mayo Clinic

Prostate cancer is cancer that occurs in the prostate. The prostate is a small walnut-shaped gland in males that produces the seminal fluid that nourishes and transports sperm. Many prostate cancers grow slowly and are confined to the prostate gland, where they may not cause serious harm. However, while some types of prostate cancer grow slowly and may need minimal or even no treatment, other types are aggressive and can spread quickly.

Prostate cancer that's detected early — when it's still confined to the prostate gland — has the best chance for successful treatment.

To learn more about the crucial symptoms, screening methods, and treatment options for prostate cancer, please click on the links below:

 

American Cancer Society

Screening Guidelines: The American Cancer Society recommends that men have a chance to make an informed decision with their health care provider about whether to be screened for prostate cancer.

Find out more about screening guidelines for prostate cancer by clicking on the following link:

 

National Cancer Institute

Advances in Prostate Cancer Research: Researchers are working to advance our understanding of how to prevent, detect, and treat prostate cancer.  Most men diagnosed with prostate cancer will live a long time, but challenges remain in choosing the best treatments for individuals at all stages of the disease.

Discover the latest research in prostate cancer by clicking on the following link:

Video Library

 

 

 

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