Men’s Health Month: What Every Man Should Know About Prostate Cancer

November is Men’s Health Awareness Month, a global initiative to raise awareness about men’s health issues. Movember is about:

Educating men about common health risks, such as prostate cancer, testicular cancer, heart disease, and mental health conditions.

Encouraging men to seek preventive care and undergo necessary screenings.

Break down stigmas surrounding men’s health and promote open conversations about these issues.

Urology Associates wants to encourage regular screenings, and promote healthy lifestyle choices  — it’s a time to focus on checkups, prevention, and conversations that help men stay healthy and for many, that means understanding the prostate, a small but important organ that plays a key role in male health.

Even though it’s not often top-of-mind, knowing about your prostate and the risks associated with prostate cancer can save lives.

Understanding the Prostate

The prostate is a walnut-sized gland located below the bladder. It helps produce semen, but like other organs, it can change with age. Sometimes it enlarges (a condition called benign prostatic hyperplasia, or BPH), and other times abnormal cells may develop, potentially leading to prostate cancer.

Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men. The good news: when detected early, it is highly treatable.

Risk Factors to Know

Movember and Men’s Health Month help raise awareness about men’s health, including prostate cancer. Key risk factors include:

• Age: Risk increases significantly after 50.
• Race: African American men face higher risk.
• Family History & Genetics: Having a father or brother with prostate cancer more than doubles your risk.
• Lifestyle: Diets high in fat, low in fruits and vegetables, and obesity may increase risk.

Talking to your doctor about your risk and preventive strategies, including PSA testing, is a vital first step. Click here to learn more.

Why Early Detection Matters

Early-stage prostate cancer often has no symptoms, which is why regular screening is crucial. At Urology Associates, we recommend you talk to your doctor to see what is :

• Age 50: For most men
• Age 45: For men at higher risk (e.g., African American men or those with a family history)

Screening typically includes a PSA blood test and sometimes a digital rectal exam (DRE). Detecting issues early can save lives and provide more options for treatment.

Taking the First Step

Movember is the perfect reminder to make your health a priority. If you haven’t had your prostate screening yet, now is the time. A simple conversation with your doctor can make a lasting difference.

You take care of your family, your work, and your community — now take a moment to take care of yourself. A little awareness goes a long way.