Take control of your prostate health
Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers in men — but it’s also highly responsive to prevention and early detection. Understanding your risk factors, adopting protective lifestyle habits, and knowing when to talk to your provider about screening can meaningfully reduce your risk and improve outcomes.
A common cancer — and preventable in many ways
Prostate cancer is one of the most common types of cancer among men, particularly those over the age of 50. While the thought of cancer can be daunting, understanding risk factors, prevention strategies, and early detection methods can empower you to take control of your health.
This page walks through what’s known about prostate cancer — what increases your risk, what you can do to reduce that risk, and how screening helps catch problems early when they’re most treatable.
What raises your risk
Some risk factors are beyond your control. Others are absolutely within your power to change. Understanding both helps you focus on what you can actually influence.
Non-modifiable factors
Modifiable factors
You have real influence over your risk
While you can’t change your age, family history, or ethnicity, the lifestyle choices you make every day can meaningfully reduce your risk of developing prostate cancer. The five prevention steps below are practical, evidence-supported, and entirely within your control.
5 steps to lower your risk
Adopting these habits supports prostate health — and overall health and well-being.
Healthy diet
Fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins. Limit red meat and processed foods.
Stay active
At least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week.
Healthy weight
Obesity has been linked to increased prostate cancer risk.
Limit alcohol
Excessive alcohol intake is associated with increased risk.
Don’t smoke
Smoking is linked to an increased risk of aggressive prostate cancer.
Screening options
Early detection is key to improving outcomes. While routine screening isn’t necessary for every man, it’s important to discuss screening options with your healthcare provider — particularly if you’re at higher risk due to age, family history, or other factors.
PSA TestProstate-Specific Antigen
The PSA test measures the level of prostate-specific antigen in the blood, which can be elevated in men with prostate cancer. While the PSA test is not perfect and can lead to false positives or unnecessary biopsies, it remains a valuable tool for detecting prostate cancer early.
Digital Rectal ExamDRE
During a DRE, a healthcare provider examines the prostate gland by inserting a gloved, lubricated finger into the rectum to feel for any abnormalities. While less sensitive than the PSA test, a DRE can detect prostate cancer in some cases.
Not all prostate issues are cancer
Many men over 50 experience urinary symptoms from BPH (benign prostatic hyperplasia) — an enlarged prostate that’s not cancer. Symptoms can overlap, which is why proper evaluation matters. Understanding the difference is part of taking control of your prostate health.
Ready to talk about screening?
Schedule a consultation with our urology team to discuss your prostate health, risk factors, and whether screening is right for you.