Men’s urological health – not just prostate cancer

 

Men’s urological health – not just prostate cancer.

Prostate cancer is a leading health concern for men with about 1 in 8 men being diagnosed within their lifetime and almost 300,000 new cases expected in 2024. Each man’s risk is based on his age (average age of diagnosis is 67), race/ethnicity (African American/Caribbean African men have a higher risk), family history (father or brother with prostate cancer may double the risk), obesity, and exposure to chemicals such as smoke (firefighters have a higher incidence). 

Men’s urological health also includes issues such as prostatitis (inflammation of the prostate unrelated to cancer) and other urinary infections. Some warning signs may include pain in the pelvis, side, abdomen, or lower back. Blood or pain with urination or an increase in urination frequency (going every 1-2 hours, especially at night) may also be signs of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Whether symptoms exist or not, it is important for all men to take care of their urological health. 

Start by drinking six or more cups of water a day, getting regular exercise, reducing stress, eating healthily, and not smoking. By age 18, men should begin checking their bodies for changes and seek medical evaluation if any are seen. They should also know their family medical history, especially regarding bladder, kidney, and prostate health. Those over 50 should consider regular prostate screenings which can be as simple as a blood test. Remember, maintaining good urological health will help improve a man’s overall health. 

For more information, please go to www.UrologyHealth.org. 

Linda Walsh, RN

Parish Nurse, 

The Catholic Church of St. Ann

lwalshrn@st-ann.org