Take Charge of Your Prostate Health

Let’s face it. If you’re like most people born biologically male, you are uncomfortable talking about your prostate gland. The truth is, it’s something you simply can’t afford to ignore. That’s why my message is to take charge of your prostate health.

About one in eight men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer during their lifetime. The American Cancer Society estimates there will be about 313,780 new cases of prostate cancer diagnosed and about 35,770 deaths from prostate cancer in 2025. Early detection offers the best chance for a cure, yet many are reluctant to get checked. This reluctance can impact your health in more than one way.

I encourage all individuals born biologically male to talk with your doctor about your risk level and the appropriateness of screenings.

Prostate cancer screening not only helps detect cancer when it’s most treatable. It also can detect other prostate issues that, when treated, can improve quality of life.

Prostate cancer occurs mainly in older biologically born males. Nearly two-thirds of all cases are diagnosed in those 65 or older, and it is rare before age 40. Prostate cancer often does not have any symptoms in its early stages. Prostate cancer that is more advanced may cause symptoms such as:

• Trouble urinating
• Decreased force in the stream of urine
• Blood in the urine
• Blood in the semen
• Swelling in the legs
• Discomfort in the pelvic area
• Bone pain

A prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test helps doctors detect prostate cancer before symptoms appear. Prostate cancer screenings also typically include a digital rectal exam. Abnormal results in either of these tests may lead to further testing – such as an ultrasound, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or a biopsy – and possibly treatment.

The sooner treatment begins, the more effective it is. If a low-grade cancer is detected, which poses minimal risk and does not require immediate treatment, the patient can be followed closely for any changes. This process, known as active surveillance, allows any future treatment to begin at the earliest possible stage.

Lehigh Valley Health Network (LVHN) offers many prostate cancer treatment approaches including high-intensity focused ultrasound. This is a noninvasive and effective option for prostate cancer treatment with a low occurrence of side effects. It uses an ultrasound probe to scan your prostate and deliver high-intensity sound waves to a targeted area. We want men to know they have a world-class partner in LVHN, with the best treatment options right here, close to home.

Men with a family history of prostate cancer are the best candidates for prostate cancer screening. I encourage all individuals born biologically male to talk with your doctor about your risk level and the appropriateness of screenings.

Once we’ve identified and discussed any potential risk factors, you can choose the next step that makes the most sense for you. These talks also can reveal additional problems or symptoms that warrant more investigation.

So, take your next step now. Talk with your doctor about your prostate health.