Prostate cancer is the most common cancer among men after skin cancer. It develops in the prostate gland, a small walnut-shaped gland in men that produces fluid that nourishes and transports sperm.

Prostate cancer typically grows slowly and may not cause significant harm, but there are cases where it can be aggressive and spread quickly. Early detection of prostate cancer can save lives.

The importance of early detection

Early detection allows doctors to start treatment early, which can be key to the success of the treatment. When caught early, prostate cancer is often diagnosed at a stage where it can be effectively treated and cured.

In fact, the five-year survival rate for men with early-stage prostate cancer is almost 100%.

However, if prostate cancer is detected in the later stages, the treatment might be more complicated, and the chances of survival will be significantly lower.

What are the risk factors for prostate cancer?

While prostate cancer can affect any man, there are certain risk factors that increase the chances of developing prostate cancer. Some of the risk factors include:.

Age: As men get older, the risk of prostate cancer increases.
Family history: Men with a family history of prostate cancer are more likely to develop it.
Race: Prostate cancer is more common in African American men.
Obesity: Obese men are more likely to develop prostate cancer, and the cancer is also more likely to be aggressive and advanced.

What are the symptoms of prostate cancer?

Prostate cancer might not cause symptoms in the early stages, and when the symptoms appear, they vary from person to person. Some of the symptoms might include:.

A frequent need to urinate, especially at night.
Difficulty starting or stopping urination.
A weak or interrupted urine flow.
Painful or burning urination.
Blood in the urine or semen.
Pain or stiffness in the lower back, hips, or thighs.

It’s important to remember that not all men with prostate cancer will experience these symptoms.

The importance of prostate cancer screening

Prostate cancer screening involves testing for the cancer in men who don’t have any symptoms. The screening tests aim to detect prostate cancer before the symptoms develop to increase the chances of treatment success.

The two primary screening tests for prostate cancer are the prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test and the digital rectal exam (DRE). The PSA test measures the level of PSA in the blood.

The DRE involves a doctor inserting a finger into the rectum to feel the prostate gland for any abnormalities in size, shape, or texture.

What is free prostate cancer screening week?

Free prostate cancer screening week involves offering free prostate cancer screening tests to men in a specific region during a particular period.

The free screening tests aim to encourage men to be proactive about their prostate health and detect any potential cancer early.

The screenings are usually organized by local hospitals, clinics, or community organizations in partnership with the government or private donors. The tests are carried out by qualified medical professionals.

The free screening week is often held in September during National Prostate Health Month in the United States.

Who can participate in free prostate cancer screenings?

Free prostate cancer screening is available to any man who meets the eligibility criteria for the screening. The eligibility criteria vary depending on the organization offering the screening.

However, most screenings are open to men aged 40 years and older who have never been diagnosed with prostate cancer and have not undergone any prostate cancer treatment.

How to prepare for free prostate cancer screening?

Before going for free prostate cancer screening, there are a few things you need to do to prepare for the test.

Speak to your doctor: Before going for the test, it’s important to speak to your doctor to determine if you are eligible for the screening and to get advice on how to prepare for the screening.
Don’t have sex: It’s recommended that you avoid ejaculation for at least 48 hours before the screening.
Avoid certain foods and medications: Certain foods, such as red meat, may affect the PSA test results. Certain medications, such as finasteride and dutasteride, may lower the PSA levels, making it more challenging to interpret the results.
Wear comfortable, easily removable clothing: You will be required to undress from the waist down for the DRE.

What to expect during free prostate cancer screening?

The free prostate cancer screening involves two tests: the PSA blood test and the DRE.

The PSA blood test involves drawing a blood sample from your arm, which is sent to a laboratory for analysis. The test measures the level of PSA in the blood.

A high PSA level may indicate prostate cancer, but it doesn’t necessarily mean you have prostate cancer. Other factors, such as age and prostate size, can affect the PSA level.

The DRE involves a doctor inserting a gloved, lubricated finger into your rectum to feel the prostate gland for any abnormalities in size, shape, or texture. The DRE might be uncomfortable, but it is usually not painful.

What happens after free prostate cancer screening?

After the screening, you will receive the results within a few days. If the results are normal, you will be advised to schedule another screening in a year or two.

If the results are abnormal, your doctor will recommend additional tests, such as a biopsy, to confirm the diagnosis. If the biopsy confirms prostate cancer, your doctor will discuss the best treatment options with you.

Conclusion

Early detection is key to the successful treatment of prostate cancer. The free prostate cancer screening week offers an excellent opportunity for men to take charge of their prostate health and get screened for prostate cancer.

The screening is available to any man who meets the eligibility criteria and wants to know their prostate cancer status. If you are a man aged 40 years and above, don’t wait until the symptoms appear. Take advantage of the free prostate cancer screening week and get screened today.