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As a prostate cancer survivor, I feel compelled to share my story and urge the men in our community to take control of their health during Prostate Cancer Awareness Month. Prostate cancer is the second-most common cancer among men, but early detection saves lives — and I am living proof.
Seventeen years ago, at the age of 44, I was like many men — a busy father, relatively healthy and, frankly, not aware of screening guidelines for this disease. Prostate cancer doesn’t always present with obvious symptoms early on, and it’s easy to think, “It won’t happen to me.” But then it did. Thankfully, due to a timely checkup and early detection, I was able to receive treatment before it became life-threatening. Moreover, I have had two recurrences since then, resulting in more invasive treatment. But none have been life-threatening. Early detection made all the difference in adding years to my life, and life to my years.
For many men, the thought of discussing prostate health is uncomfortable, and the prospect of regular screenings may feel inconvenient or even intimidating. But the reality is that early screening — often just a simple blood test called a PSA test — can make all the difference. In fact, when caught early, prostate cancer has a nearly 100 percent five-year survival rate. However, if it’s detected late, those odds drop significantly.
I encourage every man over the age of 50 — or 40 if you have a family history of prostate cancer — to talk to their doctor about getting screened. You owe it to yourself, your family and your future to be proactive about your health.
Survivorship is a gift I will never take for granted, and I want as many men as possible to have that same chance. Let’s use this Prostate Cancer Awareness Month to break the silence, raise awareness and ensure more men take that crucial step toward early detection.
Jonathan Henry
Hampden
