Prostate Cancer

The prostate is only the size of a walnut, but plays an important role in reproduction. Three common health problems that can affect the prostate include prostate cancer, prostatitis and benign prostatic hyperplasia.

And the Answer Is:

1. False. African-American men face a much higher risk of prostate cancer than men of other racial backgrounds.
2. True. Men should discuss the advantages and limitations of screening with their doctors beginning at age 50. African-American men or men with a family history of prostate cancer should start speaking with their doctor about screenings at age 45.
3. True. BPH, a noncancerous enlargement of the prostate that makes it hard to urinate, eventually strikes most men at some point after age 50. As a matter of fact, experts estimate that as many as 90 percent of men in their 70s and 80s have BPH. A man with BPH should avoid alcohol and caffeine in the evening, as well as over-the-counter (OTC) decongestants and antihistamines. Saw palmetto supplements or prescription medicines also may help.
4. True. Men with prostatitis also may have trouble urinating or ejaculating. Prostatitis may be treated with antibiotics if an infection is detected. Self-help measures include:

• Relieving pain with OTC nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, such as ibuprofen or naproxen
• Avoiding alcohol and spicy foods
• Taking hot baths

Facts About Prostate Cancer

Prostate cancer is the most common type of cancer found in American men, other than skin cancer. While some risk factors are unavoidable, including being older, having a father or brother with this type of cancer and being African-American, you may be able to control other factors.

Scientists don't yet know for sure what causes prostate cancer. But some studies suggest that making the following choices may help protect you:

• Eat a lot of fruits and vegetables
• Limit fat, particularly animal fat
• Ask your doctor about aspirin

Symptoms

Prostate cancer may not cause symptoms, and potential symptoms are often due to other problems, such as an enlarged prostate. To be safe, tell your doctor if you experience:

• Pain during urination
• Frequent urination, especially at night
• Pain in the upper thighs, hips or lower back
• Not being able to urinate
• Blood in the semen or urine
• Painful ejaculation

Free Prostate-Specific Antigen Blood Test

All men age 50 and older, as well as those over 45 years of age who are considered high risk, can get a free prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test at the Cancer Care Institute of Carolina. The simple blood test takes only minutes — yet it could save your life.

Just go to the Cancer Care Institute and ask the receptionist for a PSA test order. Take the order to Aiken Regional Medical Centers to have the blood drawn. A physician will contact you with your results.

Talk with your doctor about having your PSA blood level tested every year after age 50, and every year after age 45 if you’re considered high risk (you have a family history of prostate cancer or are African–American or Hispanic).