Prostate cancer remains the most frequently diagnosed cancer in men.
In Indiana, approximately one in six men will be given the news they have prostate cancer. The news, however, doesn’t have to be grim. Although the disease is the second most common cause of cancer death among men with 1 in 36 dying, it is nearly 100 percent survivable if diagnosed in the early stages.
In Marion County, 61 of every 100,000 African-American men died of prostate cancer in 2007, according to the National Cancer Institute, the most recent data available.
The American Cancer Society is encouraging all men age 50 and older to discuss prostate cancer screening risks and benefits with their physician before making a decision to be screened. Yolanda Wide, a spokesperson for Central Indiana’s ACS says it’s important for men – and the women – to be educated so they make an informed decision.
“We find that women are the driving force behind men actually going and getting screened,” she said. “We’re pushing education and then screening so everyone understands its importance.”
What men will find when learning about prostate cancer is what to look for in order to diagnose the cancer.
Warning signs include:
- Trouble having or keeping an erection.
- Blood in the urine.
- Pain in the spine, hips, ribs or other bones.
- Weakness or numbness in the legs or feet.
- Loss of bladder or bowel control.
In addition to recognizing warning signs, men must be aware of prostate cancer’s risk factors. Men who are obese or eat a high fat diet, smokers, those with a family history and African-American men are more likely to be diagnosed.
The ACS is giving men a free opportunity to be screened during September, which is Prostate Cancer Awareness Month.
“The word is getting out about prostate cancer,” said Wide. “The issue is that people aren’t being proactive.
Get screened
Franciscan St. Francis Health
(317) 782-4422
Monday, Sept. 26, 5 to 6:30 p.m.
Tuesday, Sept. 27, 5 to 6:30 p.m.
Little Red Door Cancer Agency
(317) 925-5595
Wednesday, Nov. 9,
4:30 to 6:30 p.m.
St. Vincent Mercy Hospital
Elwood, Ind.
(765) 552-4587
Wednesday, Sept. 28, 9 to 11 a.m.
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