The prostate may be small — but its impact on men’s health is huge. Learn the basics of prostate cancer: what it is, who’s at risk, and why early detection is your best defense.
Prostate cancer is the second most common cancer in men worldwide — and one of the most treatable when caught early. But despite how common it is, many men delay screenings, ignore symptoms, or simply don’t know what to look for.
Understanding prostate cancer doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right information and a proactive approach, men can protect their health and take control of their risk.
Here’s what every man should know about this important (and often overlooked) part of the body.
🧠 What Exactly Is the Prostate?
The prostate is a small, walnut-sized gland located just below the bladder. Its main job is to help produce semen. Over time, it can grow, and in some cases, that growth may include cancerous cells.
👀 What to watch for: Trouble urinating, a weak stream, frequent nighttime trips to the bathroom, or blood in urine or semen. But keep in mind: many men have no symptoms at all in the early stages.
💡 Pro tip: That’s why regular checkups — not just how you feel — are essential for early detection.
📊 Who’s at Risk for Prostate Cancer?
While all men have a prostate, some are at higher risk than others. Age is a major factor; risk increases significantly after age 50. Genetics and race also play a role. Men of African or Caribbean descent, and those with a family history of prostate or breast cancer, are at elevated risk.
💬 Sound familiar? You’re over 40 or have relatives who’ve faced cancer but haven’t been screened yet.
💡 Pro tip: If you’re in a high-risk group, talk to your doctor about starting screening by age 40.
🔍 How Is Prostate Cancer Detected?
Two simple tools help catch prostate cancer early: the PSA (prostate-specific antigen) blood test and a digital rectal exam (DRE). These help detect changes long before symptoms show up.
👀 What to expect: A quick blood draw and a brief physical exam. It’s easy — and it can save your life.
💡 Pro tip: PSA levels are most helpful when tracked over time. Knowing your baseline helps identify unusual changes early on.
🩺 What Happens If It’s Cancer?
Not all prostate cancers are aggressive. Some grow slowly and may just need regular monitoring. Others may require surgery, radiation, or hormone therapy depending on how advanced the disease is.
💡 Pro tip: Catching cancer early gives you more options and better outcomes. Survival rates are very high when treatment begins early.
💪 Why Men Delay—and Why That Needs to Change
Too many men avoid screenings due to fear, embarrassment, or the belief that “it won’t happen to me.” But silence and delay only raise the risk of catching cancer too late.
💡 Pro tip: Checking in with your doctor doesn’t make you weak — it makes you smart. It’s one of the strongest things you can do for your body and your future.
Your Prostate. Your Health. Your Move.
Prostate cancer is common but it doesn’t have to be deadly. By learning the facts, knowing your risk, and getting screened regularly, you’re taking a powerful step toward protecting your life.
We offer respectful, private, and supportive care for men at every stage of their health journey.
📞 Call (242) 702-9310 to schedule your prostate health consultation or PSA screening with our Urologist Dr. Greggory Pinto.
📅 Book your appointment today and make prostate health part of your wellness routine — starting now.