Navigating a prostate cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming, but having the right information can make it a little bit easier. In her role as nurse navigator, Marie Albert, RN, works closely with patients and their loved ones, advocating for them throughout their entire treatment journey by coordinating the services they need, providing helpful guidance about medication, and offering emotional support.
Here are seven essential insights she shares with every patient and their loved ones:
Early detection of prostate cancer significantly increases treatment options and success rates. Screening methods can be incorporated into your annual appointments with your primary care physician and include tests like the PSA blood test and digital rectal exam. These can identify cancer before symptoms appear, allowing for timely intervention.
Generally, the recommendation is to start around the age of 50, but Marie said there’s no harm in starting earlier, especially if you have a family history of prostate cancer.
“Being vigilant about your PSA levels and asking for the test is important,” she said. “Advocate to your PCP that you want the PSA blood test and make sure it gets done so you can establish a baseline.”
Along with skin cancer, prostate cancer is the most common cancer among men in the United States, with about 1 in 8 men diagnosed during their lifetime, and it is more common the older you get. For example, about 6 in 10 diagnoses are men who are 65 and older.
While this may not make the news easier to hear, it can help you realize that others can support you and provide insight about what to expect. Organizations like Zero Prostate Cancer can also be a valuable resource.
“Once your journey starts, you’re not alone,” Marie said. “I’ll hold your hand throughout the entirety of your care.”
Early-stage prostate cancer often presents no symptoms, which is why regular screenings are vital. Unlike other cancers that may cause pain, weight loss, or other noticeable changes, prostate cancer in its early stages tends to be silent. Waiting for symptoms to appear can lead to later-stage diagnoses, which are more challenging to treat.
“It’s not uncommon for men to feel completely healthy,” Marie said. “It’s one of those cancers that doesn’t cause horrific symptoms. That’s why getting regular screenings is so important.”
Black men are more than twice as likely to develop and die from prostate cancer compared to white men. They often develop the disease at a younger age and with more aggressive forms. Early and regular screenings are especially important in this group.
“Advocating for yourself is a powerful first step for you and your family,” Marie said. “Understanding your personal risk and talking openly with your doctor can lead to earlier detection and better outcomes.”
Having a first-degree relative (father, brother, or uncle) with prostate cancer significantly increases your risk. It's essential to inform your healthcare provider about your family history to determine an appropriate screening schedule. And if multiple relatives have had it, or if they were diagnosed at a young age, your risk is even higher.
Family history can also hint at inherited genetic factors, including BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations, which are commonly associated with breast and ovarian cancers but also increase prostate cancer risk.
“Proactive screening for men with a family history often starts earlier—typically around age 40—and includes regular monitoring over time,” Marie said. “It’s all about being informed, not alarmed.”
One of the most surprising things for many to learn is that not all prostate cancers need to be treated right away (or in some cases, at all). In fact, many cases are so slow-growing, they may never cause symptoms or health problems during a man’s lifetime.
This is where active surveillance comes in. Rather than jumping into surgery or radiation, your doctor may recommend a careful monitoring plan—like regular PSA tests, imaging, and occasional biopsies—to keep an eye on the cancer’s behavior.
“Active surveillance isn’t the same as doing nothing,” Marie said. “We’re watching closely so you will always have the information you need so you can keep your options open should anything change down the road.”
Regular appointments enable your healthcare team to closely monitor your condition, adjust treatment plans as needed, and address any concerns promptly. Missing appointments can lead to missed opportunities for early intervention and negatively impact outcomes.
“I will always say to patients that you have to have a relationship with your doctor and your care team,” Marie advises. “Doing so allows you to know who they are and us to know who you are. That’s when you develop trust, which is really important.”
Understanding prostate cancer and staying proactive with screenings and appointments can make a significant difference in outcomes. If you have questions or need support, don't hesitate to reach out. Learn more about our approach to prostate cancer or request an appointment with one of our urologists.