September is Prostate Cancer Awareness Month

The prostate gland sits just below the bladder in males. Its primary function is to help with reproduction. Prostate cancer forms when cells in a man’s prostate grow out of control.

According to the CDC, 13 out of every 100 American males are diagnosed in their lifetime. It is one of the most common cancers in males after skin cancer.

Most prostate cancers grow within the organ and do so at a slow rate. In comparison, other forms of the disease can grow at a fast pace and spread through the body.

Signs & Symptoms of Prostate Cancer:

· Blood in urine

· Blood in semen

· Trouble urinating

· Unintentional weight

· Erectile dysfunction

· Bone pain

· Decreased force in the stream of urine

Starting at the age of 50, men who are at average risk should get screened. Men who are at high risk should start getting screened at the age of 45. This category includes African American men or those who have a father or brother diagnosed with the illness before age 65. Individuals who are at even higher risk should start getting screened at the age of 40. This category includes men who had more than one first-degree relative (i.e., father or brother) who had the illness before the illness at the age of 65. Early detection is essential. By identifying cancer early, when it is still located in the prostate, chances of successful treatment increase.