Let’s Talk About Prostate Health: A Healthy Man, A Healthy You!

Mentioning the word “cancer” can create feelings of uneasiness or fear, but raising awareness about prostate cancer treatment, prevention and screening can save or extend a man’s life. It is important to encourage men in our circles and communities to check up on their health, including prostate health.

“Prostate cancer is the most common cancer and the second leading cause of cancer death among men in the United States,” the National Cancer Institute at the National Institutes of Health https://www.cancer.gov/types/prostate reported.

Dr. Kre Trimble Johnson, DO (a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine) specializes in family medicine. Male patients of color are among patients that she serves through her business, Brownstone Healthcare. Dr. Johnson discussed prostate health to keep men informed about this important issue.

But first, it is essential to understand what the prostate is and what it does. The prostate is a small, walnut-shaped gland that includes the penis, scrotum, and testicles. It is part of the male reproductive anatomy. 

“The prostate makes fluid that goes into semen, which is a mix of sperm and prostate fluid. Prostate fluid is important for a man’s ability to father children,” NIH explained.

 A PSA test, known as the prostate-specific antigen test, tests for prostate levels in the blood.

“Men over 40 should have this level tested once a year. If the level is greater than four then you will need to see a urologist for further testing. This test is done with routine blood work at your primary care or urologist office,” said Dr. Johnson.

Black men are at a higher risk of being diagnosed with prostate cancer.

Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center https://www.mskcc.org/news/things-black-men-should-know-about-prostate stated that “Black men are 70 percent more likely to develop prostate cancer in their lifetime and twice as likely to die from the disease.”

“The reasons are not fully understood, but some risk factors are genetics, diet, obesity, and smoking,” Dr. Johnson explained.

She added that other risk factors that heavily affect prostate cancer in addition to family history are the lack of physical activity and obesity. Positive lifestyle changes that can aid in prostate health are engaging in rigorous exercise most days of the week, weight loss, and cutting back on alcohol and smoking. Men should avoid processed meats, sugary foods, foods high in unsaturated fat and red meats, according to Dr. Johnson.

Although lifestyle changes can help a man with his prostate health, more factors can influence the matter.

“A diet high in vegetables and low in animal fats may help decrease the risk, but remember, if you have a high family history of prostate cancer, then all the diet and exercise in the world can’t combat that,” Dr. Johnson added.

She also stated that signs that men should see a doctor regarding their prostate health include having more nighttime urinations beyond twice in a night, and noticing a change in urine stream, such as dribbling or simply slowing.

An enlarged prostate, known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), is due to something other than cancer, per information provided by NIH.

“BPH is the most common prostate problem in men older than age 50.”

Dr. Johnson remarked that the cause of an enlarged prostate is not truly known. 

“There are factors like aging and hormone changes that can affect prostate enlargement. As the prostate enlarges or thickens, there are symptoms of frequent urination and changes in urinary stream including urgency,” she stated.

She pointed out that limiting alcohol consumption and smoking may help with prostate enlargement issues as well as exercising, improving diet, and losing weight.  

“Your doctor may prescribe a 5-alpha reductase inhibitor medication to help shrink the prostate as well,” Dr. Johnson added.

Men should get annual checkups and pay attention to their prostate health. 

“It is very important to start getting your annual men’s checkup at 40 years old if there is no family history of prostate cancer. If you have had a family history in a close family member, then you will need to start screenings 10 years prior to their age of diagnosis,” Dr. Johnson explained.

If a man has a prostate problem, early detection of prostate cancer increases his chances for better treatment outcomes, and an increased chance of survival.

Men should note that prostate cancer can be slowed down.

“Prostate cancer can be slowed down by treatment with hormone blockers, radiation, or removal of the testes. The goal is to lower the testosterone hormone in the body,” said Dr. Johnson.

She added, “It is an illness that with early detection and treatment men can go on to live long lives.”Visit www.brownstonehealthcare.com to learn more about Dr. Johnson and Alabama-based Brownstone Healthcare.