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You and Your Prostate: To Screen or Not to Screen
The prostate is a walnut-sized gland located beneath the bladder in men. Cancer of the prostate is the second most common cancer among men in the U.S. behind only skin cancer. It is also the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths. Still, there is no universal screening recommendation for prostate cancer unless you have symptoms, a family history of the disease or are of African descent.
What’s more, even though rates of prostate cancer increase dramatically for men as they age (about 80% of men have cancer cells in their prostate gland by the time they reach 80 years old), most are not screened. That’s because the majority of prostate cancers in men of all ages are considered so slow moving many doctors and cancer organizations have not recommended screening. For older men, the disease typically does not lead to death or even symptoms.
Generally, it is recommended that men talk to their doctor or health care provider about the plusses and minuses of screening so they can make the best decision for themselves.
To Screen or Not to Screen
Screening for prostate cancer starts with a PSA blood test which measures the levels of prostate specific antigen (PSA)—a protein made by the prostate. PSA levels can be higher in men who have prostate cancer. Screening may also include a rectal exam to check for lumps or any other abnormalities.
When to Screen
- Healthy, symptom-free men with higher risk factors should talk to their doctor about getting tested at age 40.
- Men who are generally healthy and have no symptoms should talk to their doctor about screening for prostate cancer beginning at about age 45, though actual screening will most likely occur later.
- If you are experiencing the following symptoms, speak to your health care team immediately:
- Less force in the stream of urine
- Blood in the urine or semen
- Bone pain
- Unintentional weight loss
- Erectile dysfunction
- While some cancer organizations do not recommend screening for men ages 70 and older, the decision is personal and should be discussed with a medical team, especially for men who are in excellent health.
In general, the challenge with screening is that it reveals many prostate cancer cases in which a patient may be better off without immediate treatment. However, growing evidence shows the importance of screening—particularly among younger, healthy men—to catch prostate cancer earlier, when it is still highly treatable. Ultimately, the decision to screen or not to screen is between you, your doctor and your family.
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Menopause – What You Need to Know
Unfortunately, not much time and attention is paid to educating women about menopause. But shifting hormones can lead to some not-so-pleasant symptoms, which aren’t often talked about until many women are struggling.
Here are some things to know:
- Menopause is only officially menopause once a woman has not had a period for an entire year. Anything leading up to this point is called perimenopause, which can last for four to eight years.
- One of the signs of perimenopause is missed or irregular periods – they may come more or less often or be shorter. Bleeding may be lighter or heavier than usual.
- Other common symptoms include: Hot flashes, difficulty sleeping or staying asleep, pain or discomfort during intimacy or sex, mood swings, irritability and depression, urinating more often or experiencing some leaking, weight gain, changes in your body shape and dry skin.
- There are medications and other treatments that can help. Women should feel comfortable taking about how they feel. Ask a health care team member about treatments or things that can help give some relief.
- Take steps to protect your heart and bone health. With menopause comes a greater chance of heart disease and bone loss. Take these steps to stay healthy:
Eat healthy, well-balanced meals and make sure you’re getting enough calcium and
vitamin D. If you’re unsure, talk with your doctor and ask if you need to take any supplements.
Be active most days. Exercise boosts feel-good hormones (endorphins) and can ease mood swings. It’s also a natural way to lower blood pressure and cholesterol, regulate blood sugar levels, maintain your weight, strengthen your bones and get better sleep. Look for activities you enjoy and enlist a workout buddy to keep you motivated.
Pay attention to health measures like your cholesterol, blood pressure and blood sugar so you can stay on top of your risk of heart disease and diabetes. These conditions are more common as we age and steadily increase after menopause.
Find ways to keep from getting stressed. Whether it’s through deep breathing, meditation, yoga, journaling, volunteering or learning to say “no.” Set boundaries, look for ways to lower stress and stay in tune with yourself and what’s important.
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- Dress in layers and keep your bedroom cool so you can help keep your body temperature lower.
- Talk about it - build a network of social support. The lead up to menopause isn’t easy and can be somewhat unpredictable. Build in time to take care of your emotional health.
- Limit alcohol. Women should have no more than one drink a day, and more recent research suggests none may be best. Not only is alcohol empty calories, it can disrupt sleep too.
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It’s time to get your flu shot!
You should take the flu seriously. Each year millions of people are hospitalized or even die from it. The flu vaccine can help keep you safe.
- The flu vaccine is FREE
- Remember that it takes about two weeks after getting your shot for your body to build up protection, so don’t wait for flu cases to spike to get vaccinated.
- You cannot get the flu from the vaccine.
- Even though you can still get the flu once vaccinated, any illness will be milder and not last as long
- Anyone ages 6 months and up can get vaccinated.
- If you are over 65 or have certain health conditions, it is especially important for you to get vaccinated. Talk with your on-site clinic provider to learn more about when and how you should get vaccinated.
FREE Flu Vaccine Event
EVENT DETAILS
HPD: Thursday, September 19, 9 – 11 a.m.
Thursday, October 10, 2 – 4 p.m.
NC66: Wednesday, September 18, 9 – 11 a.m.
Wednesday, October 9, 2 – 4 p.m.
Alternate appointment times are available by calling the clinic at 336-893-0013.
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Understanding Men's Health Webinar: Prostate Conditions, Erectile Dysfunction and More
Men’s health issues can be complex, so knowing what to look for and having a better understanding of common conditions is an important step towards achieving optimal health and well-being. During this 60 minute webinar, Urologist, Dr. Spitz, will answer questions about specific conditions, explore treatment options and share easy steps men can take to live their healthiest lives.
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