Man Up and get a simple screening for prostate and colorectal cancer

Did you know that more than 200,000 men nationwide and as many as 4,000 men in Arizona are diagnosed with prostate cancer every year? It’s the most common cancer in men.

What can you do to stay safe? Simple…when you turn 50, you’re at high risk for the diseases (including having a family history of prostate cancer), or you’re experiencing symptoms get screened for prostate cancer. Not all men will experience symptoms and not every man with a family history will automatically get cancer. It is a complex disease, which is why it so important to get screened and talk to your doctor about your options.

The reality is when cancer is detected early the easier it is to beat. But a lot of people will put off getting a prostate exam because of the imagery and perceived horror stories of getting the test. That’s a pretty lame reason to not get tested for a disease that can cause serious complications, including death.

You also need to be screened for colorectal cancer. Uninsured Arizonans over 50 years of age that meet the eligibility requirements can receive free colon cancer screening and diagnostic services through the Arizona Department of health services Fit at Fifty Program. Take a look at the Fit at Fifty to learn more about the program, the risk factors, and the tests.

~Chris