Are you aware that prostate cancer is the most frequent cancer in men, accounting for about 775 cancers diagnosed each year in Rhode Island? And did you know that about 150 Rhode Island men die each year from prostate cancer? African-American men are at a higher risk of developing the disease (16.7% higher) but are almost twice as likely to die of prostate cancer.

Are you aware that most prostate cancers are silent with no symptoms in the early stages of the disease? These cancers can be discovered by a simple blood test, PSA (Prostate Specific Antigen). The digital rectal examination (DRE) can pick up abnormalities in the gland and together the DRE and the PSA are the important tools for diagnosing prostate cancer.

Who should have these tests? All men over the age of 50 may benefit from having a PSA. Unfortunately, most men over 50 are not seeing a physician on a regular basis to have routine checkups. Because of their high risk, African-American men should start having prostate screening before the age of 50, preferably at 45. Most African-American men are reluctant to have a rectal examination, but they could benefit from a simple blood test (PSA). Men with a family history of prostate cancer are at higher risk of developing the disease. Men whose father, brother or grandfather have a history of prostate cancer should start prostate screening at an earlier age than 50, preferably, around 45.

Are you aware that early localized prostate cancer is a very curable disease? Between 80 and 90% of men with organ-confined prostate cancer will be cured if treated at this early stage. Treatment options include surgery or radiation, including brachytherapy (radioactive seeds). (For older men hormone therapy or no treatment may also be an option.) Some men prefer the surgery and some men prefer the radiation. For most early cases the outcome is pretty much the same. Good surgery and good radiation treatment both can cure prostate cancer.

Behind every healthy man is a woman. The wives or significant others must take the lead to get their husbands and loved ones to seek this very simple test. Men are less likely than women to go for routine checkup. Women will go for their mammograms; will go for their Pap smears. Men need to go for their prostate screening.

The incidence of prostate cancer in Rhode Island is 14% higher than the national average and the death rate is 7% higher than the national average. The Rhode Island State Legislature, concerned about these statistics, has asked the State Department of Health and the Rhode Island Cancer Council to increase prostate cancer awareness. The Rhode Island Cancer Council believes that early detection and treatment can improve the outcome of this disease. At this time there are many unsubstantiated preventive measures; some are being tested in well-designed clinical trials. Licopenes in tomatoes and selenium are two that appear of interest, but a healthy diet, low fat, moderate alcohol, and exercise may be the best steps to take at this time.

We need to be concerned about prostate cancer all year round. An information and support rally will be held on Monday, September 10, 2001 at 3 p.m. at the State House, hosted by the Honorable John Harwood, Speaker of the RI House of Representatives, in association with the Rhode Island Cancer Council, The State Health Department, and the Rhode Island Breast Cancer Coalition. Everyone is invited to speak out for improved Prostate Cancer Control in Rhode Island.

For more information and answers to specific questions contact the Rhode Island Cancer Council at Tel@ricancercouncil.org or call us at (401) 728-4800 or toll free 866-879-4100.

IT IS EASIER TO PREVENT CANCER THAN TO TREAT IT.

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