Fighting Prostate Cancer in Hinds County
Fighting Prostate Cancer in Hinds County
After his recent struggle with prostate cancer, Hinds County Sheriff Victor Mason is back at work and making his community proud. In a March interview, Mason stated that he’s taking treatments to combat prostate cancer. According to Mason, it all started when he noticed himself urinating at night more frequently. When he went to see a specialist, his suspicions were confirmed. He was diagnosed with prostate cancer, and though the news was difficult at first, Mason has remained positive. He encourages other men in the Hinds County community to maintain good health and get their prostate checked regularly by a medical professional.
“Men, we might get a headache or a tummy ache, and we hope it goes away,” states Mason. “We as men don’t like to go to the doctor, especially when you talk about an exam where a man has to use a glove and a finger. You’ve got to have it, and we as men don’t want to go through it.”
Prostate cancer affects about one in seven men, though all males are at risk of developing symptoms. If caught early on, prostate cancer is relatively easy to eliminate. If left untreated, however, it can lead to severe complications and even death. Here’s how Hinds County residents can be proactive about their prostate health.
Risk Factors
Certain men have a greater risk of developing prostate cancer than others. Older men, in particular, are susceptible to developing prostate cancer, especially after age fifty. Genetics also plays a role, as men with a family history of prostate cancer are more likely to get diagnosed. Race may also play a role, with African-American males more likely to develop prostate cancer. As with many cancers, some studies suggest that lack of exercise can be a contributing factor, so it’s important that men engage in regular physical activity to reduce the risk.
Diagnosis
As was the case with Sheriff Victor Mason, the first sign that most men notice pointing to prostate cancer is excessive urination. Urination may also be painful or difficult to control. Men who suspect they may have prostate cancer should schedule an appointment with their doctor to get screened. Tests may include a digital rectal exam or prostate-specific antigen blood test. It’s recommended that men over 50 get checked once per year regardless of whether symptoms are present.
When dealing with prostate cancer, it’s important to be proactive. Catching it early on can help to prevent health complications and improves the chances of successful treatment. Men should know their risk and keep an eye out for early warning signs that could indicate the presence of prostate cancer.
