A new survey reveals that 80 % of Americans are unaware that early-stage prostate cancer often has no symptoms.
As the second-deadliest cancer in men, experts stress the importance of regular screening for early detection.
Prostate cancer is the second-deadliest cancer in men
Every year, more than 300,000 men in the U.S. are diagnosed, and over 35,000 die from the disease.
Early detection improves survival
When caught early, prostate cancer is highly treatable, but since symptoms rarely appear in the early stages, screening is essential.
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80 % unaware of the lack of symptoms
Survey results show that most Americans do not know that early-stage prostate cancer usually develops without noticeable signs.
Doctors confirm the silent nature of the disease
Experts emphasize that prostate cancer is typically asymptomatic in its early stages, making detection difficult without screening.
Greater openness can save lives
The more men are open about health concerns, the higher the chances of early diagnosis and treatment.
Sexual dysfunction as a possible sign
59 % of respondents were unaware that sexual dysfunction may be a symptom of prostate cancer.
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Black Americans showed more awareness
More Black respondents recognized fatigue and weight loss as possible indicators compared to white respondents.
Less awareness of symptom-free development
However, Black respondents were less likely to know that prostate cancer in its early stages typically shows no symptoms.
Why prostate cancer often shows no symptoms
In the early stages, the disease is confined to the prostate and does not press against other organs, causing no physical signs.
Screening is the only reliable method
Screening usually involves a blood test or rectal exam and can detect prostate cancer before symptoms develop.
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Misconceptions create risk
Many believe they are not at risk because they have no symptoms, which often leads to avoiding screening.
Symptoms in later stages
Signs such as difficulty urinating, blood in urine or semen, and persistent pain in the back, hips, or pelvis can indicate advanced disease.
Other conditions may mimic these symptoms
Many of these signs can be caused by non-cancerous conditions, making screening even more critical.
Screening recommendations by age
The American Cancer Society advises men with average risk to consider screening beginning at age 50.
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Higher risk groups should start earlier
Men at higher risk, including African Americans and those with a close relative diagnosed before age 65, should begin at 45.
Very high risk requires extra attention
Men with more than one close relative diagnosed at a young age should consider screening as early as age 40.
No universal recommendation
Doctors encourage men to discuss their personal risk and the pros and cons of screening with their healthcare providers.
Fear of symptoms can delay screening
Many men avoid testing out of fear of the procedure or the diagnosis itself, but experts stress that early detection can be life-saving.
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Screening can be quick and simple
Experts highlight that prostate cancer screening is a fast and painless process that can make a life-saving difference for men and their families.
Artiklen er baseret på informationer fra Health.com.