San Antonio Urges Year-Round Awareness for Prostate Cancer
As September comes to an end, marking the close of Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, residents of San Antonio are reminded by local health professionals that the conversation about prostate cancer should indeed continue throughout the year. This message is driven home by Dr. Neil Chevli, a radiation oncologist at the START Center for Cancer Care, who emphasizes that early detection is crucial in improving outcomes for patients.
Understanding Prostate Cancer
For those who might not be familiar, the prostate gland is an important part of male reproductive health, situated below the bladder and just above the rectum. Its primary function is to produce a fluid that combines with sperm from the testicles and seminal vesicles to create semen. Unfortunately, prostate cancer begins when cells in this gland start growing abnormally. In fact, the American Cancer Society anticipates that there will be nearly 300,000 new cases of prostate cancer in 2024 alone, with an estimated 35,000 men expected to lose their lives to this disease.
The Importance of Early Detection
Dr. Chevli explains that “detecting prostate cancer early leads to superior outcomes compared to detecting it later.” For many men, the prospect of getting screened can be daunting. Historically, the primary way to check for prostate cancer was through a dreaded digital rectal exam (DRE). Dr. Chevli acknowledges that this sensitive procedure is a key reason why many men shy away from screenings.
However, everything changed in 1986 when the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved the prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test. Dr. Chevli describes it as a blood test that acts as a marker for prostate cancer and is very useful for early detection. Today, the PSA test has largely replaced the need for a DRE—offering a more comfortable screening option.
Embracing Modern Techniques
The medical community is consistently stepping up its game, and now, an MRI can also help detect prostate cancer, often revealing more detailed information than the traditional digital rectal exam. Dr. Chevli emphasizes, “With tools like the PSA blood test and MRI, men do not have to be afraid to get checked—these advancements make it easier and less uncomfortable.” While a DRE may still be performed if necessary, it’s generally one of the many options available to men today.
Knowing Your Risk
One of the challenges with prostate cancer is that it can progress without clear symptoms. As Dr. Chevli points out, issues with urination tend to be the most noticeable signs, but by that time, the cancer may have already advanced. This is why it’s essential for men to know their family histories. Starting yearly checks at age 45 is recommended for most men, but for those with a family history of prostate cancer, it’s wise to begin as early as 40.
Family history isn’t just a male concern; interestingly, having female relatives with certain cancers can also elevate your risk. As Dr. Chevli explains, having a family history of cancers on both sides can contribute to a higher prostate cancer risk over time.
Treatment and Ongoing Awareness
Treatment for prostate cancer varies based on its stage but typically includes options like radiation or surgery. One common surgical procedure is a radical prostatectomy, in which the prostate is removed. Dr. Chevli implores all men to be proactive about their health: “All men need to be aware of their risk for prostate cancer and should get checked every year.”
As Prostate Cancer Awareness Month wraps up, let’s keep the conversation going in San Antonio and beyond. Awareness is a critical step in combating this prevalent disease, and now, more than ever, it’s time to take action—for ourselves and the men we care about.
