After skin cancer, prostate cancer is the 2^nd most common type of cancer in men; and the 4^th most common overall. With over 1.3 million new cases surfacing in 2018 alone, prostate cancer is a real health scare for men aged 50 and above.

So should you be worried? Not necessarily. However, there here are a few reasons that might necessitate that you make an appointment with your physician.

Age

As mentioned above, prostate cancer is most common in men aged 50 and over. So it’s wise to get tested before you hit the half-century mark. Men who get tested in their 40s have a higher chance of avoiding a cancer scare. They can also take timely precautions to eliminate any chances of falling prey to the terminal disease and can live a healthier and longer life.

Erectile dysfunction and urinary issues

Another reason to consult your doctor for a prostate exam is if you’re experiencing abnormal bladder function or other urinary issues. Excessive urinating or even erectile dysfunction could be early symptoms of prostate issues. Therefore, it’s recommended to get tested, so that whatever is causing your ailment can be treated and the issue is not prolonged.

Family history matters

If you’ve had prostate cancer or prostate related issues in the family, the chances are that you might be susceptible to them too. Getting tested will clear any doubts and will also help you get started with treatment, in case a problem is found.

If you do have prostate issues, it’s not the end of the world! In fact, more than 2.9 men who are diagnosed with prostate cancer in the US are still alive and healthy.

Enlarged prostate

It’s not always a cancer scare! An enlarged prostate could be a symptom of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Whereas it’s not a terminal condition, BPH can have serious effects on the quality of your living. Therefore, it is smart to schedule a prostate exam in the event of an enlarged prostate, because even if it is benign, it can be the cause of you not living a happy and comfortable life!

For most men, it is difficult to consult a doctor about something so private. But a prostate related problem, if not addressed in time, can have devastating consequences on your public and private life. Thankfully, Healthguv.com provides a social media health care platform for individuals around the world to seek help from the best doctors and health professionals and to share their health stories with people who can benefit from their experiences. Become a part of our online community to help raise awareness regarding prostate cancer.