Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers that affect men living in the United States. The American Cancer Society estimates that in 2017 alone there will be about 161,360 new cases of prostate cancer and 26,730 deaths caused by the disease.
It is important for men to know if they are risk for developing prostate cancer. Risk factors for the disease include:
Age – The chance of developing prostate cancer increases after the age of 50
Race/ethnicity- Prostate cancer occurs more in men of African American and African Caribbean ancestry
Family History- Men with a family history of the disease are more likely to develop prostate cancer
While prostate cancer usually does not present symptoms until its later stages, it is also important for men to know the symptoms. Symptoms include:
Difficulty urinating
Frequent urination
Pain or burning during urination
Painful ejaculation
Blood in urine or semen
Difficulty emptying the bladder completely
Pain in the hip, pelvis or back that does not go away
If you are at risk of developing prostate cancer or are experiencing symptoms, it is recommended that you speak with your doctor as soon as possible. He or she may suggest that you receive testing to find out if you have the disease or to assess the severity of your condition. If you are diagnosed with prostate cancer, there are several treatment options available. Your doctor will discuss which treatment is best based on the advancement of the disease.
To schedule an appointment with a doctor a Jamaica Hospital Medical Center, please call 718-206-7001.
All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.