June is Men’s Health Month, which makes it a good time for a quick reminder about prostate cancer.
According to Anthem Health: “Prostate cancer is the most common non-skin cancer in America. One in every six American men has it.” If you’re a man — or if you know any men and want them to be around for a while — here’s what you should know.
- Symptoms often don’t show until the cancer has gotten bad.
- More than two-thirds of prostate cancers are found in men over 65. If family members have had it, the risk is much higher.
- Black men are more likely than white men to get and die from prostate cancer.
- Obesity can cause complications with prostate cancer. A diet high in animal fats may increase the risk of prostate cancer; a diet high in fruits and vegetables may reduce it.
- Symptoms include frequent urination, especially at night, or problems with urination. Also: difficulty or pain related to sexual functions, or pain or stiffness in the lower back, hips or upper thighs.
Most prostate cancer is highly treatable, if it’s caught in time. For more information, download this PDF from Anthem BlueCross BlueShield.