Provided by UVA Health
September is Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, a time to spotlight the most common cancer among men, second only to skin cancer. While one in eight men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in their lifetimes, survival rates are close to 100 percent when detected early.
How Is Prostate Cancer Detected?
The prostate is a small, walnut-shaped gland in the male reproductive system that sits just below the bladder. In addition to being necessary for reproduction, the prostate also produces prostate-specific antigen (PSA).
“Prostate cancer is asymptomatic in early stages,” says David Pfeffer, MD, urologist with UVA Health Urology Warrenton. “You wouldn’t even know that you had cancer unless you got screened with a PSA. I’m the poster boy for prostate cancer. I was 52 years old when I was diagnosed, and the only way I found out was [that]my PSA went up. I had absolutely no symptoms at all.”
The PSA test is a simple blood draw, but its role is vital. It can detect changes in PSA levels long before symptoms such as difficulty urinating, pelvic discomfort, frequent nighttime urination, or blood in the urine appear.
“More of it gets into the bloodstream when patients have prostate cancer,” Pfeffer explains. “But just because you have an elevated PSA doesn’t mean that you have prostate cancer. You need to see a urologist who can order additional tests to figure out if that’s the case.”
When to Get Screened
For most men, Pfeffer recommends starting PSA screenings at age 50. However, those with a family history of prostate cancer or genetic susceptibility should begin at 40.
While prostate cancer affects men, other family members often play a pivotal role in encouraging the men in their lives to seek screening. Spouses, partners, children, and friends can schedule checkups or encourage a loved one to see a doctor. Early detection saves lives, and sometimes, a friendly nudge to get screened can make all the difference.
Urologic Health and Kidney Stones
Pfeffer notes that good hydration benefits overall urologic health. “If you stay well hydrated, you have a lower chance of getting kidney stones,” he says. “I recommend drinking enough water to make at least two liters of urine a day.”
The American Cancer Society also shares other ways to support urologic health and prevent prostate cancer include:
- Maintaining a healthy weight.
- Being physically active.
- Following healthy dietary habits, such as including colorful fruits and vegetables and whole grains, and avoiding or limiting red and processed meats, sugar-sweetened beverages, and highly processed foods.
To schedule a screening, schedule an appointment with Dr. Pfeffer (call 540.347.1314) or contact your primary care provider. Don’t wait – the process is quick, accessible, covered by most insurance plans, and can be lifesaving.
