This month, we have an additional blog from ScreenSafe that deviates from our usual discussion about drug testing and workplace safety. Instead, because September is Prostate Cancer Awareness Month and most of our clients work in male-dominated environments, we thought it essential to raise awareness about Prostate Cancer. The stigma surrounding prostate cancer can significantly impact men’s mental and emotional well-being.
According to theProstate Cancer Research Foundation:
- 299,010 new cases of prostate cancer are expected to be diagnosed in the U.S. in 2024.
- 1-in-8 men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer during their lifetime.
- Prostate cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in men.
- Today, there are more than 3.3 million prostate cancer survivors.
- The relative 5-year survival rate for prostate cancer diagnosed in its earliest stages is over 99%.
1-in-5 Veterans will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in their lifetime. Prostate cancer is the most common cancer diagnosis among U.S. Veterans, and the incidence rates in the military are nearly twice those of the general population. It is not known why this number is so high.
All cancers start from a normal cell that becomes abnormal and grows uncontrollably without the signals or “brakes” that stop typical cell growth. This phenomenon also occurs in the prostate. Unfortunately, early warning signs for prostate cancer are rare. The growing tumor usually does not cause pain, and the disease may be silent for many years. That is why screening for prostate cancer is such an essential topic for all men and their families. The following symptoms may be indicative of prostate cancer:
► A need to urinate frequently, especially at night, sometimes urgently
► Difficulty starting or holding back urination
► Weak, dribbling, or interrupted flow of urine
► Painful or burning urination
► A decrease in the amount of fluid ejaculated
► Painful ejaculation
► Blood in the urine or semen
► Pressure or pain in the rectum
► Pain or stiffness in the lower back, hips, pelvis, or thighs
Medical experts recommend that people over 40 have an annual physical, including laboratory blood work. For men, the lab work should always include a Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) blood test to help monitor their risk of prostate cancer.
What is PSA?
PSA is a protein produced by the prostate and primarily found in semen, with very small amounts released into the bloodstream. It is used as a “disease marker” that can help your
doctor detect prostate cancer. When there’s a problem with the prostate, more PSA is released. When PSA can be easily detected in the blood, this may be the first indicator of prostate cancer. Doctors look at the PSA level over time, comparing it with prior test results, and consider whether another benign explanation could exist. As the PSA number goes up, your doctor may recommend additional tests to look for cancer cells in the prostate and elsewhere in the body. When necessary, your doctor can help you sort through the available treatment options, including surgery, radiation, and hormone therapy.
Call To Action
- Have an annual physical, and be sure your lab work includes a PSA screening test.
- Should you want additional information or suspect that you have prostate issues, make an appointment with your physician or a urologist.
- Be proactive in maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
A cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming. Reach out to your EAP/MAP to speak with a counselor. You don’t need to be alone on this journey, as help is available. You can also contact the Prostate Cancer Research Foundation http://www.pcf.org/ and/or the American Cancer Society https://www.cancer.org/ for additional information.
Help is available.
