September - Prostate Cancer Awareness

September is Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, a good reminder for the men in our families, churches, and communities to be intentional about their health.  

Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers diagnosed in men. In many cases, it causes no symptoms in its early stages, which is why regular checkups and conversations about screening are so important.

Some Men Are at Higher Risk  

Not every man has the same risk of developing prostate cancer. Certain men should begin conversations about screening earlier.  

African American men are at increased risk. Prostate cancer occurs more often in Black men, may develop at a younger age, and Black men have a higher risk of dying from the disease. Prostate cancers in Black men may also be more aggressive, making early screening conversations especially important.  

Family history also matters. A man with a father, brother, or son who has had prostate cancer has an increased risk, particularly when the relative was diagnosed at a younger age. Having multiple close relatives with prostate cancer increases the risk even further.

Men should also know their family history of breast and prostate cancers. Certain inherited genetic mutations, particularly BRCA1 and BRCA2, can run in families and increase a man's risk of developing prostate cancer. For example, a man whose mother had breast cancer at a young age or who has several relatives with breast or ovarian cancer should share that history with his healthcare provider.  

When Should the Conversation Begin? 

The American Cancer Society recommends discussing prostate cancer screening with a healthcare provider beginning around:  

• Age 50 for men at average risk.
• Age 45 for African American men and men with a father or brother diagnosed with prostate cancer before age 65.
• Age 40 for men at even higher risk, including those with multiple close relatives diagnosed with prostate cancer at a young age or men with known BRCA gene mutations.

Screening usually begins with a simple blood test called a PSA, or prostate-specific antigen. A PSA does not diagnose prostate cancer by itself, but it can help identify men who may need additional evaluation.  

Encourage the Men You Love  

Caring for our health is one way we can be good stewards of the life and abilities God has given us. Sometimes that simply means making the appointment, getting to know our family history, asking the right questions, and encouraging someone we love to do the same.  

This September, encourage the men in your life to know their family history, know their risk, and talk with their healthcare provider about prostate cancer screening.  

Early detection can make a difference. 

About Toronsa Simpson, MBA, MSN, APRN, FNP-C Toronsa Simpson is an advanced practice registered nurse with CARTI, a not-for-profit multidisciplinary cancer care provider. She serves patients at CARTI Urology North Little Rock and CARTI Urology in Searcy. With a passion for men’s health and patient education, she encourages men to speak openly about urologic concerns and seek care that supports their physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being.