Men, Have You Had Your Prostate Check?

It’s another of those topics that were once taboo in mixed company, but prostate health must be discussed, and what better time than Prostate Cancer Awareness Month?

Murrumbidgee Primary Health Network (MPHN) has reminded males aged 50 to 75 years or those 40 years and older with a family history of prostate, breast, or ovarian cancer to visit their GP for a prostate cancer check-up every two years.

MPHN Senior Manager Population Health Planning and Data, Dr Jason Bennie said prostate cancer was the most commonly diagnosed cancer in Australia and the most frequently diagnosed cancer among Australian males, transgender women and intersex people.

“Data shows that prostate cancer in males is higher in the Murrumbidgee region than the national average,” Dr Bennie said.

“Given this higher incidence in prostate cancer for the Murrumbidgee, this September I am encouraging all males to consider booking a prostate check-up with their local GP.”

To date, no government-sponsored prostate screening program single test to detect prostate cancer exists, but commonly used tests used include Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) test and Digital Rectal Examination (DRE).

Dr Steven Sowter from Riverina Urology said the risk of prostate cancer in males increases rapidly:

• After the age of 50;
• For those with a family history of prostate, breast or ovarian cancer;
• For those with a father or brother diagnosed with prostate cancer before age 60.

“Early prostate cancer rarely causes symptoms, however, frequent urination or pain while urinating can be some symptoms of advance prostate cancer,” Dr Sowter said.

“Prostate cancer often grows slowly, and even more aggressive types tend to grow more slowly than other types of cancer.

“Early diagnosis of prostate cancer has one of the highest five-year survival rates.

“Stigmas associated with prostate cancer can prevent some males from getting a check-up.

“Overcoming the stigmas amongst males and health professionals starts with education and open communication.”

Visit https://mphn.org.au/find-a-health-service to find your nearest health service.

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• Health & Wellness