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Our PSA 4 PSA Campaign (Public Service Announcement for PSA testing) was inspired by my father’s deep desire to raise awareness around prostate cancer. After his own journey, he wanted to ensure others knew the importance of getting tested. By educating men about the need for regular PSA screenings, we hope to continue his legacy of helping others take charge of their health. Early detection can make all the difference, and through this campaign, we aim to save lives by encouraging men to prioritize their health and get tested.
Prostate Cancer
Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers affecting men. It's a type of cancer that begins in the prostate gland, a small gland that produces seminal fluid. Early detection through screening can make a significant difference in outcomes, making it vital for men to be informed about their prostate health.
Quick Facts
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1 in 8 men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in their lifetime.
Source: Prostate Cancer Foundation -
Prostate cancer is the second most common cancer in men, after skin cancer.
Source: American Cancer Society -
When caught early, prostate cancer has a nearly 100% survival rate at the 5-year mark.
Source: National Cancer Institute -
African American men are twice as likely to be diagnosed with prostate cancer and tend to have more aggressive forms of the disease.
Source: CDC -
Approximately 34,000 men die from prostate cancer each year in the U.S.
Source: American Cancer Society
What is PSA?
The Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) test is a simple blood test used to measure the level of PSA in your blood. PSA is a protein produced by the prostate, and elevated levels can indicate prostate cancer or other prostate conditions.
Why it is important?
This simple blood test can identify elevated PSA levels, which may indicate the presence of cancer even before symptoms appear. Early detection is vital because the 5-year survival rate for localized or regional prostate cancer (when it's confined to the prostate or nearby areas) is nearly 100%. However, if cancer spreads to distant parts of the body, the 5-year survival rate drops drastically to about 33%. Regular PSA screenings can catch cancer early, allowing for prompt treatment and significantly improving the chances of survival.
Who's at Risk?
While prostate cancer can affect any man, certain factors increase the risk:
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Age: Men over 50 are at a higher risk, with the risk increasing significantly after age 65.
Source: American Cancer Society -
Family History: Having a father or brother with prostate cancer more than doubles your risk.
Source: National Cancer Institute -
Race: African American men face a higher risk and are more likely to be diagnosed at an advanced stage.
Source: CDC -
Diet and Lifestyle: High-fat diets, obesity, and lack of exercise may also increase the risk.
Source: Prostate Cancer Foundation -
Genetic Factors: Certain inherited gene mutations (like BRCA1/BRCA2) can elevate the risk.
Source: National Cancer Institute
How to Get Tested?
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Talk to Your Doctor: Discuss with your healthcare provider whether the PSA test is right for you, especially if you're over 50 years old or have risk factors.
Source: Prostate Cancer Foundation -
Schedule a Blood Test: Most primary care doctors can perform the PSA test. It only requires a small blood sample.
Source: American Cancer Society -
Follow-Up: If your PSA levels are elevated, your doctor may recommend additional tests, such as a digital rectal exam (DRE) or a prostate biopsy.
Source: National Cancer Institute -
Stay Informed: Regular check-ups and proactive monitoring are crucial for early detection.
Source: CDC
"ALWAYS ADVOCATE FOR YOURSELF"
Sources
American Cancer Society - Prostate Cancer Statistics & Survival Rates https://www.cancer.org/cancer/prostate-cancer/about/key-statistics.html
American Cancer Society - Prostate Cancer Staging https://www.cancer.org/cancer/prostate-cancer/detection-diagnosis-staging/staging.html
National Cancer Institute - PSA Testing Fact Sheet https://www.cancer.gov/types/prostate/psa-fact-sheet
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention - Prostate Cancer Statistics https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/prostate/statistics/
Prostate Cancer Foundation - Understanding Prostate Cancer & Risk Factors https://www.pcf.org/about-prostate-cancer/