Prostate cancer is the second most commonly diagnosed cancer among men in the United States, following skin cancer. According to Richmond University Medical Center, awareness and education are essential for patients to make informed decisions about prostate cancer screening.
The medical center highlights that many men underestimate how common prostate cancer is, with one in eight men expected to be diagnosed during their lifetime. The incidence rate has been increasing by approximately 3% each year since 2014.
There are misconceptions about prostate health that can impact early detection. For example, an enlarged prostate, known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), is not a form of cancer and does not increase the risk of developing prostate cancer. However, diagnostic tests for BPH may incidentally reveal prostate cancer if it is already present.
Family history plays a significant role in determining risk levels. Men whose father or brother had prostate cancer face higher risks—twice as likely if the father was affected, four times more likely if the brother was affected, and up to eight times more likely if both were affected. African American men are also at increased risk, with one in four expected to be diagnosed at some point.
Many cases of prostate cancer develop without noticeable symptoms. Some possible signs include frequent urination urges, weak urine flow, urinary incontinence, pain during urination or ejaculation, blood in urine or semen, erectile dysfunction, and bone pain. However, most men experience no symptoms until the disease is detected through screening.
Colonoscopies cannot detect prostate cancer unless it has spread into the colon. A normal colonoscopy result does not indicate absence of prostate cancer.
Although most cases progress slowly, untreated prostate cancer can metastasize and become more difficult to treat as life expectancy increases. Early detection remains critical for improving outcomes.
Screening usually involves a PSA (prostate-specific antigen) blood test. PSA levels vary among individuals based on age and other factors; therefore, knowing one’s baseline level is important for accurate assessment.
Recent years have brought advances in treatment options such as chemotherapy with fewer side effects, image-guided radiotherapy (IGRT), high dose rate brachytherapy (HDR), high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU), robotic surgery, and targeted therapy. These approaches offer improved survival rates and better quality of life after treatment.
Healthy lifestyle choices—including a diet rich in fruits and vegetables, regular exercise, maintaining healthy weight, avoiding smoking, and limiting alcohol consumption—can reduce overall risk but do not eliminate it entirely. Routine screenings are recommended: men at average risk should get a baseline PSA test at age 45 and continue testing every one to two years after age 50.
Richmond University Medical Center offers various services for those seeking information or care related to prostate cancer in Staten Island and surrounding areas. Services include patient education programs, PSA screenings, and personalized treatment plans tailored to individual needs.
