Family Health Medical Services is joining with the American Cancer Society to raise awareness of prostate cancer as an important health concern among American men.
Other than skin cancer, prostate cancer is the most frequently diagnosed cancer in men, especially in African American men. About 1 man in 9 will be diagnosed with prostate cancer during his lifetime. The American Cancer Society recommends all men talk with their health care provider, so they can decide if prostate cancer screening is right for them.
Men should have this talk:
At age 50: If they are at average risk for prostate cancer and are expected to live at least another 10 years.
At age 45: If they are at high risk because they are African American or have a close relative (father, brother, or son) who had prostate cancer before age 65.
At age 40: If they are at even higher risk of getting prostate cancer because more than one close relative had prostate cancer before age 65.
When a man and his health care provider have this talk, it should include information about the uncertainties and possible risks and benefits of testing. After the talk, if a man decides to be tested, he should have a PSA (prostate-specific antigen) blood test.
Visit cancer.org or call 1-800-227-2345 for more information about prostate cancer and how the American Cancer Society can help you take steps to help reduce your risk for the disease.
