As men age, routine health screenings become increasingly important in maintaining overall well-being. Early detection of potential health issues can lead to more effective treatment and better outcomes. At Kansas City Urology & Oncology (KCUC), we are strong proponents of men’s health, offering expert care and guidance to help men stay proactive about their well-being. Our team of board-certified urologists and oncologists is dedicated to providing advanced prostate cancer screenings and treatments tailored to each patient’s needs. If you’re over 50, scheduling key screenings should be a top priority. Here are the top 3 tests 50+ men should schedule to stay on top of your health.
1. Prostate Cancer Screening
Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers among men, and early detection can significantly improve treatment success rates. A prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test is a simple blood test that measures PSA levels, which can indicate prostate issues, including cancer.
Regular Prostate Cancer Screenings Save Lives
To aid in early detection of prostate cancer, KCUC recommends regular prostate cancer screening in men starting at age 40-55, depending on personal risk factors, and continuing every 1-2 years until at least age 70-75 depending on individual overall health and life expectancy. Prostate cancer screening should consist of a PSA blood test and prostate exam. We recommend patients discuss prostate cancer screening with their primary care physician or establish care with a urologist to ensure they are screened appropriately.
Why It’s Important:
- 1 in 8 men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in their lifetime.
- The risk increases with age, particularly after 50.
- PSA screening can help detect prostate cancer at an earlier stage, potentially leading to more effective treatment and better outcomes.
- Early detection can also improve a man’s quality of life by allowing for timely intervention and potentially avoiding the need for more aggressive treatments later on.
What You Can Do:
- Schedule a PSA test with your doctor every 1-2 years.
- Discuss any symptoms, such as frequent urination or difficulty emptying your bladder, with a urologist.
- If you have a family history of prostate cancer, consider getting tested earlier.
2. Heart Health Screening
Heart disease is the leading cause of death for men in the United States. If heart disease runs in your family, regular heart screenings are essential. Various tests can assess your heart health and help detect problems early.
Recommended Heart Tests:
- Blood Pressure Check: High blood pressure is a major risk factor for heart disease and stroke.
- Cholesterol Test: High cholesterol levels increase your risk of heart attack and stroke.
- Electrocardiogram (EKG): Detects irregular heart rhythms and other heart conditions.
- Coronary Calcium Scan: Helps assess the risk of heart disease by measuring calcium deposits in arteries.
What You Can Do:
- Schedule an annual check-up that includes blood pressure and cholesterol tests.
- If you have a family history of heart disease, ask your doctor about additional tests like an EKG or coronary calcium scan.
- Maintain a heart-healthy lifestyle with regular exercise, a balanced diet, and stress management.
3. Colonoscopy
Colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the U.S., but it is also one of the most preventable. A colonoscopy can detect precancerous polyps early, allowing them to be removed before they develop into cancer.
Why It’s Important:
- The American Cancer Society recommends that men begin regular colonoscopies at age 45.
- If polyps are found early, they can be removed before they turn into cancer.
- A family history of colorectal cancer increases your risk, making screening even more critical.
What You Can Do:
- Schedule your first colonoscopy at age 45 or earlier if you have a family history of colorectal cancer.
- Follow your doctor’s recommendations on repeat screenings, usually every 10 years if no abnormalities are found.
- Eat a diet high in fiber and low in red and processed meats to support colon health.
The Good News about Prostate Cancer
Prostate cancer has one of the highest curability rates of all types of cancer. Because over 90% of prostate cancer cases are discovered in the early stages, (before it has spread or when it has only spread to limited areas in the pelvic regions) the tumors are more likely to respond to treatment. In the U.S., the 5-year survival rate with prostate cancer is close to 98%. We can thank early detection methods, advancements in research and medical technology, and new treatment options for this good news about prostate cancer.
Reasons to Choose KCUC for Prostate Cancer Care
At KCUC, we specialize in prostate cancer. We see, diagnose, and treat more prostate cancer in the greater Kansas City area than any other group or hospital. Our experience and expertise mean you are in the best of hands.
- We diagnose and treat the most prostate cancer patients in the region
- We have world-class physicians
- We pioneered robotic prostatectomy in Kansas City and to date, our urologists have performed thousands of procedures
- We are always at the forefront of medicine being the first to bring cutting-edge medical advances to Kansas City
- We are the only non-hospital-based radiation treatment facility in the greater Kansas City area which allows us to treat you faster and at a lower cost.
- With over 30 office locations in Kansas and Missouri, you’ll be able to find world-class care close to home
Proton Therapy Reduces Side Effects of Radiation Treatment
Proton therapy is an advanced radiation treatment that targets tumors with precision, minimizing damage to surrounding tissues. KCUC is proud to offer proton therapy through the Kansas City Proton Institute (KCPI), a division of KCUC. Proton therapy is especially valuable for prostate cancer because it reduces the risk of side effects often associated with traditional radiation, such as bowel or urinary issues. This highly targeted approach allows patients to maintain a higher quality of life during and after treatment.
You will receive the latest and best prostate cancer care at KCUC. Our multidisciplinary team (urologist, medical oncologist, and radiation oncologist) would be happy to answer all of your questions regarding your prostate cancer diagnosis.
Take Action Today
Now you know the top 3 tests 50+ men should schedule. Prioritize your health by scheduling routine screenings. If you are over 50 and haven’t had a PSA test, heart screening, or colonoscopy, it’s time to take action. Take the first step by contacting one of the 30+ KCUC Urology and Oncology locations throughout Kansas and Missouri to schedule an appointment with a board-certified urologist for a prostate cancer screening. Your health is in your hands. Be proactive and catch any cancer or heart disease early to give you the most options and the best shot at staying healthy.
At KCUC, you see the best in KC. Contact us or make an appointment online for a prostate cancer screening.
