September 2025 Health Tip

by J. Renee Livsey |  September 1, 2025

   
Prostate cancer typically grows slowly and doesn’t cause early health problems in men who have it. You can have prostate cancer for months or even years without knowing it. This is why it is so important to get a prostate screening every year stating at age 50. However, men at a higher risk, such as Black men or those with a family history of prostate cancer should consider talking to their doctor about screening starting at age 45.
 
The most common screening test for prostate cancer is a blood test called a PSA. Some health care providers no longer perform the digital rectal exam opting for the blood test.  A slightly elevated PSA may be caused by other issues like urinary tract infection or benign prostate swelling. The only way to know if an abnormal test is due to cancer is to do a biopsy.
 
 The typical warning signs of prostate cancer include:
 

• frequent urination, especially at night
• trouble starting or stopping urination; a weak or interrupted urine stream
• blood in the urine or semen
• pain or burning during urination or ejaculation
• persistent pain in the pelvic, lower back, hips, or upper thighs

 
These symptoms are also common with other conditions, so it is important to contact your health care provider for an evaluation.
 
Treatment of prostate cancer may include:
 ► Close monitoring and follow-up visits
 ► Radiation
 ► Surgery to remove the prostate
 
The bottom line is to realize the importance of a yearly physical for both men and women. Early detection of potential health problems can help catch these issues early, increasing the chances of successful treatment.