Concerns regarding the overtreatment of prostate cancer have finally come to the forefront. A study among researchers from the University of San Francisco and California found that men that have a low-risk type of prostate cancer are opting for active surveillance also known as watchful waiting instead of surgical hormone or radiation treatments.
Researchers examined data among 10000 patients at forty five urology practices around the United States between 1990 and 2013.
The watchful waiting for these cancers haven’t exceeded 14 % till 2009. But in the period between 2010-2013 this rate was at 40 %.
Men that are 75 and above saw a rate of surveillance of 54% from 1990 to 1994. This fell to 22% between 2000 to 2004 and then rose to 76% between 2010 and 2013. In older men, rates were even higher going all the way from 51% in 76% in 2010 to 2013 for men in their early 90’s.
In other news, the Madison County Health Department is organizing a free prostate cancer screening on Tuesday. All men are welcomed to stop by at the Department Annex located on Max Luther Drive for a free screening. Screenings will be done between 10am to 4pm on the 14th of July, Tuesday.
As per the health department, anybody can fall victim to this type of cancer which is one of the most frequently diagnosed types of cancer in US men. Studies show that one in six men in the United States are diagnosed with this form of cancer at one point or another. They also show that one in thirty-six die because of this disease.
Alabama is currently second as far as prostate cancer deaths throughout the nation are concerned. Data shows that 50% men in this state over the age of 50 get screening done annually. It’s recommended that men get yearly screening during the age group of 45-50.
You can get brochures related to prostate cancer as well as general health at the screening.
More than two hundred men were screened during this event last year.
You can call (256) 539-3711 to get more information on the event.
