Diseases of the prostate, particularly prostate cancer, have been featured in Time magazine, Fortune magazine, the Washington Post, and numerous radio and television talk shows. Every man should know the risk of developing prostate cancer. Except for lung cancer, prostate cancer is the greatest cause of cancer deaths among American men. At highest risk are African-Americans and those with a family history of prostate cancer.
One in five men will develop prostate cancer in his lifetime and the American Cancer Society estimates that over 32,000 men will die from the disease this year, a mortality rate approaching that of breast cancer in women. It is recommended that men at high risk begin annual prostate cancer screenings at age 40, and that all other men begin at age 50.
At your next visit to the doctor, please ask your physician about diseases of the prostate. Your physician may suggest you have a DRE exam and a PSA test. Both tests are painless, quick, simple, and inexpensive.
Some states, including Arizona, Florida, New Jersey, Ohio, and Texas, have established prostate cancer awareness campaigns in June while Rhode Island does so in April. Other states establish awareness activities surrounding the Prostate Cancer Education Council’s awareness campaign in September.
Use these opportunities to raise the awareness of prostate cancer in your community. For ideas on working with community based organizations, fraternal organizations, churches and others to promote Prostate Cancer Awareness Week in your state, or to get involved in prostate cancer activism.
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