How will you be spending your holiday season this year? Maybe you will spend some quality time with your mates, enjoy a holiday with the family or finally get to finish that project you’ve been working on. You might have a grand plan but have you forgotten something crucial? For men over the age of 40, getting your prostate checked is one of the most valuable and important things you could do these holidays.
When it comes to prostate cancer, the key to survival is catching it early. Although getting tested is not the most enjoyable of experiences (yes, you might find it uncomfortable), it could be the difference between living a long and happy life and missing out on valuable time with family and friends.
So who should get tested? If you are a man over 50 it is a good idea to talk to your doctor about getting your prostate checked. The chances of getting prostate cancer below this age is significantly less, however if you are experiencing symptoms or have a family history of prostate cancer it is advised that you should discuss test options with your doctor.
Aside from skin cancer, prostate cancer is the most common cancer in Australia and every year there is approximately 20,000 new diagnoses. It is important to catch it as soon as possible because in the early stages it is still confined to the prostate gland. If left untreated it can spread to other parts of the body, decreasing the chance of survival and making the treatment process much more complicated and drawn out.
Although many men tend to not make a huge fuss about it, taking the step to get your prostate checked is the bravest thing you will do these holidays. Whether you are doing it for yourself, your family or your mates; make the most out of this holiday season by stepping up and talking to your doctor.