Prostate Cancer: Myths, Facts, And Your Guide To Early Detection

For American men, prostate cancer is the most common cancer and the second-leading cause of cancer deaths. Despite these alarming facts, it remains under-discussed, misunderstood, and often overlooked in the broader conversation about men’s health. This gap in understanding has allowed myths about prostate cancer and prostate cancer screening to persist – myths that can cost lives. That’s why understanding the facts about prostate cancer and acting early are so important.

About Prostate Cancer

First things first: What is the prostate? It’s a small gland, about the size of a walnut, located below the bladder and in front of the rectum. Found only in men, it produces some of the fluid in semen. Prostate cancer begins when cells in the gland grow out of control.

“The challenge with prostate cancer is that it often presents no early symptoms,” said Mount Carmel radiation oncologist, Dr. Abhay Gokhale. “In its advanced stages, men may experience a weak or slow urinary stream, difficulty starting urination, or frequent urination – especially at night. Yet these symptoms can also stem from non-cancerous conditions, which is why proactive screening is so important.”

According to the National Cancer Institute, nearly 300,000 men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer this year, and more than 35,000 will die from it. Early detection is the key to changing those outcomes.

Prostate Cancer Screening

Despite decades of research and public health campaigns, misconceptions about prostate cancer screening remain widespread. According to Dr. Gokhale, these are some of the most common myths along with the facts that debunk them:

Myth: If you have no symptoms, you don’t need screening.

Fact: Prostate cancer is often silent in its early stages. Waiting for symptoms to appear can mean missing the window for early treatment, when the five-year survival rate is 97.5%. Screening allows physicians to detect cancer before it spreads, offering the best chance for successful intervention.

Myth: The PSA test is unreliable.

Fact: The PSA (prostate-specific antigen) blood test is not perfect, but it is a valuable tool – especially when used alongside a digital rectal exam (DRE). PSA tests can detect abnormal activity long before symptoms appear. When interpreted in the context of other risk factors, it can guide further testing and save lives.

Myth: Prostate cancer only affects older men.

Fact: While the disease is more common in men over 65, risk is not confined to seniors. Men with a family history of prostate cancer or those of African American descent face higher risk and should begin conversations about screening in their 40s. Genetics, hormone levels, and even certain nutrient levels (such as vitamin E, folic acid, and calcium) can also influence risk.

Early Detection Guidelines

Preventive care is a high-return investment because prostate cancer screening literally saves lives. That’s why understanding and acting on risk factors and following a recommended screening schedule are essential.

Medical guidelines continue to evolve, but these are the widely recognized benchmarks for when men should start the conversation about screening:

• General Population (Average Risk): Start discussing screening with your doctor at age 50. Even in the absence of symptoms, a baseline PSA test and physical exam can establish a critical starting point.
• High-Risk Groups: African American men and those with a family history of prostate cancer should begin discussions at age 40 to 45.
• Other Risk Factors: Men with certain metabolic or genetic factors may also warrant earlier or more frequent screening. A doctor can help determine your risk category and develop a personalized plan.

“Everyone’s risk is different,” Dr. Gokhale added. “That’s why it’s important to talk to your doctor and work together to create a screening schedule that’s tailored to your individual risk profile and health history.”

Taking Action

Lowering the incidence and mortality of prostate cancer starts with candid conversations. So if you’re approaching 50 (or 40 if you’re in a high-risk group), talk to your doctor about prostate cancer screening at your next check-up. And encourage the men in your life to do the same.

“Early detection saves lives,” Dr. Gokhale concluded, “and there’s no better investment than the one you make in your own health.”

To learn more about prostate cancer, screening, and treatment, sign up for our informative September webinar, Understanding Your Options: Prostate Cancer Treatments Explained.