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Prostate

Cancer Questions?
1-800-4-CANCER

1800QuitNow
Maryland Department of Health and Mental Hygiene

PROSTATE CANCER INFO

WHAT IS PROSTATE CANCER?

Prostate cancer occurs when cells in the prostate (a gland in the male reproductive system found below the bladder and in front of the rectum) grows out of control. The cells clump together and form a malignant (cancerous) tumor. Prostate cancer is the most common cancer among men in the US , and it occurs more often in older men.

RISK FACTORS:

All men can get prostate cancer, but the risk of developing prostate cancer increases significantly after age 50.

  • 50 years and above
  • African American men ethnicity (have the highest risk)
  • Family history
  • High fat diet
  • Smoking

SYMPTOMS:

Prostate is a silent disease and most men will not experience any symptoms, however some will experience symptoms that might indicate the presence of prostate cancer.

  • Frequent urination
  • Difficulty starting urination or holding back urine
  • Blood in urine or semen
  • Painful or burning urination
  • Impotence
  • Back pain
  • Fatigue

These symptoms can also indicate the presence of other diseases or disorders, always consult your health care provider.

 

 

 

PREVENTION/SCREENING:

There are currently 2 methods used to screen prostate cancer:

  • Digital Rectal Examination ( DRE ) - The doctor inserts a gloved, lubricated finger into the rectum to examine the prostate.
  • Prostate-Specific Antigen ( PSA ) blood test - PSA is a substance produced by cells from the prostate gland and released into the blood. The PSA test measures the PSA level in the blood.
  • Prostate cancer if detected early when treatment might be more effective, may save lives.

The American Cancer Society recommends annual prostate cancer screening which includes both DRE and PSA , for men ages 50 and above or earlier if they are at higher risk.

To be eligible for our Prostate Cancer Screening Program, you must:

  • Live in Montgomery County
  • Be between the ages of 40 and 70
  • Have an increased risk (Family history, African American male, and / or experiencing signs and symptoms relating to prostate cancer)
  • Have no current diagnosis of prostate cancer

For the prostate cancer screening information, please call 240.777.1222