In September it is Prostate Cancer Awareness Month. Early screening and detection are the best possible ways to prevent prostate cancer. The prostate is a ping pong ball sized gland, located near the base of the rectum in men. It is responsible for supplying seminal fluid, which mixes with sperm from the testes. The prostate is a crucial gland for reproduction due to the seminal fluid it produces which keeps the sperm alive and traveling. Many men do not realize what the purpose or function is of their prostate. The key is to get more men to know about prostate cancer, which can help in detecting signs or symptoms earlier.
Prostate screenings should start for men between the ages 40-45 for people with family history or who are at high risk, otherwise men can start between the ages of 45-50. It often varies based on your current health and what your doctor recommends. Going in for regular check ups is necessary for prostate cancer, because it is hard to detect. Some common symptoms include, urinating frequently, pain or stiffness in the lower back, hips, pelvis or thighs or painful urination. The best way to prevent prostate cancer is to visit your doctor on a regular basis, maintain a healthy weight and to have a healthy diet.
Here at the Windom Area Hospital, we have an urology outreach service to help with prostate screenings and urological needs. Call 507-831-0670 to make an appointment today!
Reference
About Prostate Cancer. https://www.pcf.org/about-the-prostate/ accessed on July 16, 2018.