September is Prostate Cancer Awareness Month

Did you know prostate cancer is one of the most commonly diagnosed cancers among men in the United States? Prostate cancer develops when cells in the prostate (a small gland located below the bladder) begin to grow abnormally and uncontrollably. Second only to skin cancer, prostate cancer is diagnosed in more than 330,000 men each year. Fortunately, most prostate cancers are easily detectable, slow-growing and highly treatable. This Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, take a moment to learn the facts, understand your risk and know what screening and support resources are available to you.

Who’s At Risk?

While any man can develop prostate cancer, certain factors can increase your risk – including age. The risk of prostate cancer increases with age, but other factors can also put you at higher risk, including if you:

• Are 50 or older
• Are Black
• Have a father, brother or son who has had prostate cancer
• Have a family history of breast, ovarian, pancreatic or colorectal cancer
• Have certain inherited genetic changes, such as BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutations
• Are overweight or have obesity

Signs and Symptoms

Prostate cancer often develops slowly and may not cause noticeable symptoms in its earliest stages. When symptoms do occur, they may include:

• Difficulty starting or stopping urination
• A weak or interrupted urine stream
• Frequent urination, especially at night
• Pain or burning during urination
• Blood in the urine or semen
• Difficulty getting or maintaining an erection
• Painful ejaculation
• Persistent pain in the back, hips, or pelvis

Prostate Cancer Prevention and Screenings  

Because prostate cancer may not cause symptoms in its early stages, talk to your primary care provider or urologist about when prostate cancer screening may be appropriate for you based on your age and individual risk factors.

Additionally, AtlantiCare offers free monthly prostate cancer screening clinics for men ages 40-80. Led by Oncology Medical Director Dr. James Wurzer, these screenings offer Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood testing and optional digital rectal exams (DREs) based on patient preference. Screenings are by appointment only.  

Prostate Cancer Screening Clinics
    To RSVP, call 609-383-6447 or email [email protected] 
    
    Second Tuesday of Each Month, 1 p.m. – 2:30 p.m. 
    AtlantiCare Cancer Care Institute, Egg Harbor Township
    2500 English Creek Avenue, Building 400
    
    Second Friday of Each Month, 1 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.
    AtlantiCare Cancer Care Institute, Cape May Court House
    106 Court House South Dennis Road, Building 200
 

Prostate Cancer Treatment and Support

If you’ve been diagnosed with prostate cancer, AtlantiCare is here to help at every step. Our dedicated team of board-certified urologists, radiation oncologists, specialized nurses and other experts provides comprehensive prostate cancer care close to home. We offer several methods of treatment depending on cancer stage, patient health and personal preferences, including:

• Robotic-assisted prostatectomy  
• Radiation therapy  
• Medical oncology, including hormone and systemic therapy

AtlantiCare also offers a robust lineup of cancer support services and meetings, including a monthly prostate cancer support group.

Prostate Cancer Support Group
    To RSVP, call 609-677-5673 or email [email protected]   
        
    Second Tuesday of Each Month, 6 p.m.
    AtlantiCare Cancer Care Institute, Cape May Court House
    106 Court House South Dennis Road, Building 200
 

This Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, take charge of your health. Knowing your risk and talking with your provider about screening are important steps in protecting your health.

To learn more about prostate cancer care and the AtlantiCare Cancer Care Institute, visit AtlantiCare.org/Cancer. For more information about Urology services, visit AtlantiCare.org/Urology.