Prostate Cancer: Know Your Risk and Take Charge of Your Health
One in eight men in the United States will be diagnosed with prostate cancer sometime in their life, and catching it early is crucial for successful treatment. Here’s what you need to know to stay informed and take control of your health.
What is prostate cancer?
The prostate gland, a small, walnut-shaped gland located below the bladder, helps regulate urine flow, produces seminal fluid, and plays a role in hormone production. Prostate cancer arises when normal cells in the prostate mutate and grow uncontrollably, forming lumps or tumors. If left unchecked, these tumors can spread to other parts of the body.
Symptoms and early detection
Prostate cancer is often a slow-growing cancer, and you may not experience any symptoms in the early stages. However, some signs to watch for include:
- Difficulty urinating or a weak urine stream
- Frequent urination, especially at night
- Blood in the urine or semen
- Erectile dysfunction
- Pain in the hips, back, or pelvis (in advanced stages)
Don’t wait for symptoms to appear! Regular check-ups with your doctor are essential for early detection. Depending on your age and risk factors, your doctor may recommend screening tests like:
- Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA): PSA is a protein secreted by the prostate gland. Elevated PSA levels in the blood may indicate prostate cancer, but factors such as a prostate inflammation or enlargement, infection, or trauma can also cause the PSA to increase.
- Digital Rectal Exam (DRE): A physical exam where the doctor feels the prostate for abnormalities.
Taking control and managing your risk
While some risk factors like age, demographics, and family history are unchangeable, you can influence your overall risk through lifestyle choices including maintaining a healthy weight, eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and limiting alcohol and smoking.
Tips for early detection
Open communication with your doctor is key. Discuss your family history, risk factors, and any concerns you may have. Together, you can create a personalized plan for prostate cancer screening and prevention.
Remember: Early detection is the most powerful weapon against prostate cancer. By understanding your risk, getting screened regularly, and adopting a healthy lifestyle, you can significantly improve your chances of a successful outcome.
Cancer Care for Carrum Health members
If your employer offers the Carrum Health cancer care benefit and if you or a dependent has received a cancer diagnosis or if test results indicate the possibility of cancer, contact us today. We’ll connect you with one of the leading cancer centers in the country and provide step-by-step guidance throughout your cancer journey.
Your Carrum Health benefit includes a complimentary second opinion and a personalized care plan from one of the nation’s premier cancer care centers. This service comes at no cost to you and can often be completed virtually, from the comfort of your own home.
After you receive your second opinion, you’ll also have access to virtual support from expert oncology nurses. These highly trained nurses are available to answer cancer-related questions and provide ongoing assistance for up to two years, offering valuable support beyond your initial diagnosis.
For more information, watch our video. And to see if the Carrum Health cancer care benefit is available to you, check your eligibility.
The information contained on this page is for informational purposes only. No material is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
