Prostate cancer is the second most common form of cancer among men. In fact, 1 in 9 men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in their lifetime. The good news is, as long as it’s caught early enough, it’s highly treatable. This is why it’s important for all men to have their prostate checked later in life.  

Though prostate cancer can develop in younger men, it’s most common in men who are 65 or older. Stillall men should start having their prostate checked by the age of 50 However, there are situations where you may want to have it checked sooner.  

A Family History 

Approximately 5-10% of prostate cancer cases are hereditary. That means if you’ve had a blood relative with prostate cancer, you have an increased risk of developing prostate cancer yourself. In fact, someone who has had a close relative with prostate cancer is twice as likely to develop prostate cancer as someone with no family history.  

Because of this, people with a history of prostate cancer in their family should be examined by 40. 

African American Men 

African American men are almost twice as likely to develop prostate cancer as white men, and well as other men of color. Additionally, they are 2.2 times more likely to die from it. The reasons for this are complex, stemming from historical lineage, socioeconomic status, and more.  

Because of the increased risk factors, African American men should start having their prostate checked by at least 45. 

Symptoms of Prostate Cancer 

Though prostate cancer is very rare among men under 40, it is still possible. If you start experiencing symptoms of prostate cancer, your doctor may recommend you have it checked. Common symptoms of prostate cancer include: 

  • Trouble urinating 
  • Decreased force in the stream of urine 
  • Blood in the urine 
  • Blood in the semen 
  • Bone pain 
  • Losing weight without trying 
  • Erectile dysfunction 
  • And more 

It’s important to know that other conditions that affect the prostate have similar symptoms. The two most common conditions are benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and Prostatitis. Both of these are very common in older men.  

Alternatively, you may not show any symptoms for some time. This is why regular checks are important as you get older. 

Treatment for Prostate Cancer 

Treatments for prostate cancer can vary depending on the severity, as well as the age of the person. Prostate cancer is slow spreading, and some men may simply live out the rest of their lives without any treatment. Treatment options include radiation, surgery, cryotherapy, hormone therapy, and chemotherapy.  

For men under 75, a prostatectomy may be the way to goThis is a procedure that involves removing some or all of the prostate gland.  

First, however, you need to be appropriately diagnosed. If you’re experiencing issues involving your prostate and/or urinary tract, schedule an appointment with a urologist. They’ll be able to diagnose your condition and advise you on available options. For a prostate cancer center in Dayton, Ohio and the surrounding communities, Urology Specialists of Ohio is here for you.