Regular prostate cancer screenings are crucial for saving lives, especially for Utah men over 50. Dr. David Gill emphasizes considering life expectancy over age for screening decisions and highlights the importance of genetic factors such as Lynch Syndrome in increasing prostate cancer risk.
According to World Prostate Cancer Day on June 11, being aware of symptoms and the screening process can make a significant difference. The common phrase “more men die with prostate cancer than because of it” may be true for some, but regular screenings can indeed save lives.
Dr. Gill recommends considering life expectancy when making screening decisions, rather than just age. He suggests that men whose life expectancy is 10 years or greater should undergo prostate cancer screening. The key symptoms to look out for include urinary problems and increased fatigue.
Regular screenings are not as invasive as thought, typically involving only blood work to check prostate-specific antigen levels. This can provide crucial early detection of the disease. Utah’s lower smoking rates contribute to its lower lung cancer incidence, but this has led to a higher number of cases of prostate cancer in men.
African American men have a higher risk of developing prostate cancer and should be screened more frequently. Dr. Gill emphasizes that awareness is key to preventing terminal illness, advising family members to gather history and discuss with primary care providers.
Gill recommends starting screenings at age 50 for most men, but those with high-risk factors can begin as early as 40. Early detection through regular screenings can significantly improve treatment outcomes and save lives.
Source: https://www.ksl.com/article/51324925/why-prostate-cancer-screenings-matter–what-utah-men-should-know