Miller: Why early detection matters in the fight against prostate cancer
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Evan Miller
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By Evan Miller, Ph.D. | Founder & CEO, Gameday Men’s Health
It’s estimated that 1 in every 8 men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer, the second leading cause of cancer death for men, according to the American Cancer Society.
Men are also the least likely to visit their doctor and take care of their health, but it’s time to remove the stigma around men’s health. Early detection can significantly reduce the risk of advanced prostate cancer and improve the chances of successful treatment. Men over the age of 50, or those noticing any unusual symptoms, should prioritize getting screened and speak with a medical professional.
Prostate Cancer Awareness Month is an important time to raise awareness about the signs, symptom, and steps for early detection.
What Is prostate cancer?
Prostate cancer originates in the prostate gland, a small gland that produces seminal fluid in men. While some types of prostate cancer grow slowly and may require minimal or no treatment, others are more aggressive and can spread rapidly. This makes it critical for men to understand the symptoms and get screened, even if they feel healthy.
Signs and symptoms of prostate cancer
Prostate cancer often progresses silently, showing no symptoms in its early stages. This can make it difficult to detect without regular screenings. However, as the disease advances, some common signs and symptoms to look out for include:
• Difficulty urinating
• A weak or interrupted urine flow
• Frequent urination, particularly at night
• Blood in urine or semen
• Erectile dysfunction
• Pain in the hips, back, or chest
• Unexplained weight loss
As noted earlier, many men with early-stage prostate cancer show no symptoms, making regular screening essential.
The importance of PSA screening
PSA (prostate-specific antigen) screening is a key method for the early detection of prostate cancer. This quick and simple blood test measures PSA levels, a protein produced by the prostate gland. While elevated PSA levels can suggest the presence of cancer, they may also indicate other prostate-related conditions such as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) or prostatitis. Elevated PSA levels act as a red flag, signaling the need for further evaluation by your healthcare provider.
Why early detection matters
Prostate cancer often develops slowly, and by the time symptoms appear, it may have already spread beyond the prostate gland. Early detection through PSA screening enables doctors to identify prostate cancer at its most treatable stage, often before symptoms arise.
When caught early, prostate cancer confined to the prostate is typically curable.
