The Importance of Prostate Cancer Screenings

Since June is Men’s Health Month, let’s focus on a health condition exclusive to men. Prostate cancer is currently the second leading cause of cancer deaths for men in North Carolina, behind lung cancer, as noted by the North Carolina Division of Health and Human Services. It is also the most common cancer diagnosed among men in the state. 

Ask about Risk Factors

Being aware of these findings, you may want to question your male patients in a little more detail starting at age 40. Do they have a family history of parents and/or “full” siblings who have been diagnosed with prostate cancer? Males who are 45 and are African American are at high risk, as are those who have a family history of prostate cancer. Keep in mind the higher-than-average incidence in the state of North Carolina compared to other states. 

A recent review of claims shows that nine (9) percent of our eligible population who had screenings done tested positive for prostate cancer.