Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers among men, with nearly 1 in 8 men being diagnosed with prostate cancer(American Cancer Society), yet many screening for it due to lack of urgency or not realizing they are classified as high risk. Early detection can make all the difference in prostate cancer treatment success and overall health. Scheduling a prostate cancer screening is a crucial step every man should take to safeguard his future. Here’s why:
Catch It During the Early Stages
Early detection of prostate cancer significantly increases the effectiveness of treatment, as well as preventing it from spreading further and becoming a much more serious issue. While prostate cancer is usually considered to be one of the most slow-growing diagnoses, every person’s situation is different, and this is not an excuse to ignore prostate cancer.
Being proactive rather than reactive ensures your peace of mind, as it reduces the risk of facing the challenges associated with advanced stages of the disease.
If You Are Classified as High Risk
Certain factors can increase your risk of prostate cancer, making regular screenings even more critical:
- Age: The risk of prostate cancer increases with age, particularly after age 50.
- Race: Black men face a higher risk of developing and dying from prostate cancer for reasons not entirely understood.
- Family History: A history of prostate cancer in close relatives, especially if diagnosed before 65, elevates your risk. If you have many family members who have dealt with prostate cancer, it is vital to be proactive in scheduling your screening.
- Inherited Gene Mutations: Mutations in genes like BRCA1 and BRCA2, often linked with breast cancer, also increase prostate cancer risk. Genetic testing may be advisable if you have a strong family history of cancer or known gene mutations.
- Diet: Diets high in animal fats and low in vegetables may increase prostate cancer risk. If you currently do not maintain a well-balanced diet, now is the time to start.
What if You Test Positive for Prostate Cancer?
If diagnosed with prostate cancer, advanced treatment options like our CyberKnife System offer a non-surgical solution. This delivers high doses of radiation directly to the prostate tumor using Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy (SBRT), while minimizing exposure to surrounding tissues. The CyberKnife System’s sub-millimeter accuracy allows it to track natural movements of the prostate and adjust the treatment in real-time, significantly reducing radiation therapy side effects.
Treatment sessions typically last between 20 and 45 minutes, with most patients requiring only four or five sessions. Our nationally recognized and board-certified physicians provide personalized treatment plans using the CyberKnife System.
If you’ve been diagnosed with prostate cancer, contact our Phoenix CyberKnife team today to learn how our expert team can support you through your treatment.
