When it comes to men’s health, one of the most critical yet overlooked areas is prostate cancer screening. According to the Delaware Division of Public Health, prostate cancer is not only the most commonly diagnosed cancer among Delawarean men, but also the second-leading cause of cancer-related deaths.
Dr. Michael Zaragoza, a leading urologist, emphasizes that many of these cases could be caught early—and treated effectively—if men simply got screened on a regular basis.
Why Men Often Delay Prostate Exams
There’s a cultural and psychological barrier that causes many men to shy away from discussing their health—particularly anything involving urological exams. Compared to women, men are statistically less likely to seek medical attention unless symptoms are persistent or painful. However, early-stage prostate cancer typically has no symptoms at all.
Common Misconceptions:
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“I feel fine, so I must be fine.”
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“Prostate exams are painful or humiliating.”
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“I’m too young to worry about that.”
These myths contribute to delayed diagnoses and poorer outcomes, especially in high-risk populations.
Who’s at Risk for Prostate Cancer?
Understanding your risk factors is the first step toward prevention and early detection. Dr. Zaragoza outlines the three main unchangeable risk factors:
1. Age:
Men over 50 years old face a significantly higher risk. As men age, the likelihood of developing prostate cancer increases.
2. Ethnicity:
African-American men have a notably higher risk and are more than twice as likely to develop—and die from—prostate cancer than white men.
3. Family History:
Having a first-degree relative (father, brother) with prostate cancer more than doubles your risk.
Lifestyle Risk Factors:
While genetics play a large role, certain lifestyle factors can also increase your susceptibility, including:
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High-fat, low-fiber diets
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Obesity
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Smoking and tobacco use
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Sedentary lifestyle
By adopting a healthier lifestyle, men can reduce their overall risk and improve outcomes should cancer develop.
The Silent Nature of Prostate Cancer
One of the biggest challenges with prostate cancer is that it’s often silent in the early stages. You may feel perfectly healthy, even as cancer slowly develops.
Common Advanced Symptoms (Often Too Late):
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Unexplained weight loss
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Persistent bone pain
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Blood in the urine
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Difficulty urinating
It’s crucial to get screened before symptoms appear. Once symptoms do surface, the cancer may already be in an advanced or metastatic stage, which is much harder to treat effectively.
Screening Options: What You Need to Know
Early detection starts with routine prostate cancer screening. There are currently two widely used methods:
1. Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) Test:
A simple blood test that measures the level of PSA, a protein produced by the prostate. Elevated PSA levels may indicate prostate issues, including cancer.
2. Digital Rectal Exam (DRE):
A physical examination where a doctor feels the prostate through the rectum to check for irregularities.
Screening Guidelines:
The American Cancer Society recommends:
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Annual screening beginning at age 50 for average-risk men
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Start at age 40–45 for high-risk groups (African-American men or those with a family history)
What If Cancer Is Found?
Not all prostate cancers are the same. In recent years, doctors have discovered that some forms of the disease are slow-growing and non-aggressive, while others are more dangerous.
Active Surveillance (Watchful Waiting):
This approach is often used for older men or those with low-risk cancers. It involves:
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Regular PSA testing
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Monitoring for changes before deciding on treatment
This strategy can delay or avoid side effects like urinary incontinence or erectile dysfunction associated with aggressive treatments.
Treatment Options Include:
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Surgery (Prostatectomy)
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Radiation therapy
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Cryotherapy (freezing cancer cells)
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Hormonal therapy in some cases
Your doctor will determine the best approach based on age, overall health, and the aggressiveness of the cancer.
The Bottom Line: Get Screened
Dr. Zaragoza’s key message is simple: Don’t wait for symptoms. Get screened.
Prostate cancer is highly treatable when found early, so there’s no reason to put off an exam that could potentially save your life.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q1: Is a prostate exam painful?
A: Most men experience only mild discomfort during a digital rectal exam. It’s quick, simple, and could be lifesaving.
Q2: At what age should I start getting prostate screenings?
A: Men of average risk should start at age 50. If you’re African-American or have a family history, start at age 40–45.
Q3: What does a high PSA level mean?
A: Elevated PSA can signal prostate cancer, but also other conditions like an enlarged prostate or infection. Your doctor may recommend further testing.
Q4: Can I avoid prostate cancer through diet and lifestyle?
A: While you can’t eliminate risk entirely, a healthy diet, regular exercise, and avoiding tobacco can reduce your chances of developing prostate cancer.
Q5: What if prostate cancer is found in early stages?
A: Early-stage prostate cancer is often slow-growing and treatable. Some men may not need immediate treatment and can be monitored through active surveillance.
