Unlike many other types of cancer, prostate cancer does not have concrete recommendations for prevention of mortality and morbidity. Prevention through screening and early detection is controversial, and there is currently no consensus among major medical and health organizations in the United States for recommendations on screening. Prostate cancer also raises concern about the side effects of treatment, such as impotence and incontinence, as well as the question of whether and for whom treatments are effective or necessary. Although there is much we do not know about preventing and treating prostate cancer, the factors below are recognized as risk factors:
- Age - as men get older, the greater their risk for getting prostate cancer.
- Family history - a man whose father, brother or son had prostate cancer is two to three times more likely to develop the disease himself.
- Race - prostate cancer is more common among African American men than among white men, but medical experts do not know why. It is less common among Hispanic, Asian, Pacific Islander and Native American men.
The Arkansas Prostate Cancer Foundation formed in 2000 to promote awareness, encourage timely detection and support improved treatment of prostate cancer in Arkansas. Despite the disagreement among professionals regarding screening and treatment, the position of the APCF is that awareness and education are becoming recognized as effective means to move Arkansans from abnormal screening to cancer treatment, ensuring a timely intervention. The APCF provides support to those affected by prostate cancer, offers educational information about the disease and provides free screening on its mobile unit, as well as collaborates with health departments and community-based organizations. For more information about APCF, visit www.arprostatecancer.org or call 1-800-338-1383.
Prostate cancer is the number two cancer killer of men in Arkansas. In order to reduce deaths from prostate cancer in Arkansas, the Coalition established the following objectives:
- Increase public education about prostate cancer.
- Monitor the science regarding the effectiveness of primary and secondary prevention interventions in reducing prostate cancer mortality.
- Promote informed decision making about screening.
- Promote education regarding treatment and support services, especially in underserved populations.