Prostate Cancer Rates Continue to Rise: What You Need to Know

The latest American Cancer Society report shows that prostate cancer rates have been climbing by about 3% yearly since 2014 with the biggest increase seen in advanced stages of the disease. It is the most common cancer diagnosis in men in the U.S. and affects some men at a disproportionate rate. Black men are twice as likely to die from a diagnosis, and Native American men also face significant higher risks. So what can you do to protect yourself?

There has been ongoing discussion at the federal level about how early and often routine PSA (protein-specific antigen) screening should be done. If you’re 45 or older, or if prostate cancer runs in your family, talk to your doctor about a plan tailored to you. A PSA test is a simple blood draw and an important tool in early detection of prostate cancer.

It’s still unclear exactly why cases are rising. Researchers are exploring possible links to genetics, lifestyle, and environmental factors. What doctors do know is that we have better screening tools that can help catch prostate cancer earlier.

This Prostrate Cancer Awareness month, it’s time for men, especially those 45 and over, to pay attention and make your health a priority – even if you are one of the 65% of men who say they delay seeing a doctor for as long as possible. A simple conversation could make a lifesaving difference.