September marks a host of great things, from apple orchard openings to sweaters pulled out from the back shelf of a closet. But one thing that surpasses these events in importance is the awareness of prostate cancer.
National Prostate Cancer Awareness Month is highlighted in September of each year to inform men about preventative steps they can take to reduce their risk of prostate cancer.
While you may have heard of prostate cancer and the prostate as a body part, you might not know exactly what it does or how it's affected by cancer.
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| An enlarged prostate doesn't necessarily mean prostate cancer, but similar symptoms are seen with enlarged prostate and prostate cancer. |
About the Prostate & Prostate Cancer
The prostate is a small gland that sits under the bladder and in front of the rectum in men. It serves an important function in the reproductive process by supplying substances that facilitate fertilization and sperm transit, such as enzymes.
Because the prostate is close to several vital organs, prostate cancer treatment can have a complicating effect on otherwise normal functions like reproduction and urination.
With these uncomforting facts comes the reality that prostate cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in men. Several factors play into individuals risks of getting this cancer. Of these factors, which includes age, family history, diet, obesity, race and others, age is recognized as the most significant, though men can be diagnosed at any age throughout their life.
What Can I Do to Lower My Risk?
There's no proven strategy to completely prevent prostate cancer but there are steps you can take to lower your risk.
Start by considering your risk factors and by getting a FREE prostate screening at select Franciscan Alliance locations during the month of September.
As part of your daily regimen try choosing a healthy, low-fat diet. This is a simple way to help prevent lots of disorders, including prostate cancer. Try to increase your fruit and vegetable consumption while decreasing the amount of dairy products you eat.
Lastly and most importantly, talk to your physician or health care provider about your risk for prostate cancer. Individuals who do have a high risk can explore other options for reduction such as medication.
The Statistics
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, in 2008 (the most recent year with available numbers) 214,633 men in the United States were diagnosed with prostate cancer. Furthermore, 28,471 men in the U.S. died of prostate cancer that same year.
With regards to age, the National Cancer Institute states that from 2005-2009, the mediam age for diagnosis was 67 years old. Incidence rates from age 20-34 were 0%.
Race plays a distinguishing factor in the prevalence of prostate cancer as well. From 2005 to 2008 the breakdown is as follows:
All Races | 154.8 per 100,000 men
White | 146.9 per 100,000 men
Black | 236.0 per 100,000 men
Asian/PI | 85.4 per 100,000 men
Am. Ind. | 78.4 per 100,000 men
Hispanic | 125.9 per 100,000 men
Make a Difference
Get involved to make a difference in your life and in the lives of others who have been affected by prostate cancer. A wide variety of groups and organizations are available help you organize your efforts and support those in need.
Visit any of the following groups to learn more about prostate cancer and to get involved in your community: Us TOO International, Inc., Dattoli Cancer Foundation, American Cancer Society, American Association for Cancer Research, and the Prostate Cancer Foundation.
To learn more about Franciscan Alliance programs offered in our hospitals, including cancer care and preventative services, visit us online.
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