Understanding Your Risk for Prostate Cancer

Prostate cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer among American men. The American Cancer Society estimates that in 2025, more than 313,000 new cases will be diagnosed and around 36,000 men will die from the disease.

One dangerous aspect of prostate cancer is that it’s “silent” and rarely causes symptoms early on. Knowing your risk of prostate cancer can help you decide if prostate-specific antigen (PSA) testing is right for you.

What Increases Your Risk?

All men face some risk for prostate cancer, but certain unchangeable factors can increase it. These include:

• African American ancestry
• Family history of prostate cancer
• Genetic mutations (BRCA1 or BRCA2)
• Older age — risk increases significantly after age 50

Lifestyle also matters. Diets high in fried or fatty foods and low in fruits and vegetables may increase risk, while a balanced diet may help support prostate health.

When To Consider Screening

The American Urological Association recommends most men begin discussing prostate cancer screening with their provider between ages 45-50. For those at higher risk, conversations may start as early as age 40. These discussions should continue every two to four years through age 69 or beyond for those at higher risk.

For those with higher risk, a PSA blood test may be appropriate. The PSA blood test is quick and simple. While not perfect, it helps providers decide if further testing, like a biopsy, is needed. Screening in your 40s and 50s can allow for earlier detection — when treatment is most effective.

Take Action

If you’re concerned about your prostate cancer risk, speak with your primary care provider or a urologist. They can help you decide whether PSA screening is right for you. You can visit www.umbwmc.org/cancer to explore prostate cancer services at the Tate Cancer Center at UM BWMC. Need a primary care provider? Visit www.umbwmc.org/primary.

Free Prostate Cancer Screening: Thursday, September 18, 5:00pm–6:30pm

UM Baltimore Washington Medical Center
255 Hospital Drive, Glen Burnie, MD 21061

Join urologist Rian Dickstein for a free event to learn about prostate cancer and to receive a PSA blood test if you meet the criteria.

PSA Testing Eligibility:

• Men ages 45 and up
• Men ages 40-45 with:
• African American ancestry
• Family history of prostate cancer
• Known genetic mutations

Register Today: Space is limited. To register and schedule your free PSA testing appointment, call 410-553-8103 or visit www.umbwmc.org/prostatescreeningevent.

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