Download Sept. 1, 2015 - Prostate Cancer Second Leading Cause of Cancer

Media Contact
Richard Hoeth | [email protected]
806-435-3606
Press Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Prostate Cancer Second Leading Cause of Cancer Deaths Among Men
Genetics and age play a role in prostate cancer development.
PERRYTON, Texas (Sept. 1, 2015) – Affecting an estimated three million American men each year, prostate
cancer is the second leading cause of cancer deaths among men in the nation. Ochiltree General Hospital
(OGH) wants to make sure men in Ochiltree County over the age of 50 talk with their physician about
annual prostate screening.
“Prostate cancer has the potential to affect one in six men,” explains Dr. Claude Betty, a general practice
physician in Perryton. “Fortunately, as with many types of cancer, it can be treated with success if
detected at an early stage.”
Prostate cancer is a malignant tumor growth that consists of cells from the prostate gland. Slow
growing in nature, the tumor often produces little to no symptoms until it has grown to an advanced
stage. Many times it is not detected until it has advanced to surrounding tissues of the body.
Although the cause of prostate cancer is not known, there are several identified risk factors, which
include advanced genetics, age, and hormonal influences.
Prostate cancer is most commonly found in men over age 65, although many cases have been in found
in men during screenings at the age of 50. Those who have a family history of the disease should begin
at the age of 45 or earlier depending on a physician’s recommendation.
In addition, the cancer is more common in African-American men than any other race. Statistics also
show that Asian-American and Hispanic men are less likely to develop prostate cancer compared to
Caucasian men.
While there are many treatment options available, Dr. Betty says a physician can advise you on the best
option when taking your age, general health and cancer grade into consideration.
Prostate cancer can be found early through testing the amount of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) in your
blood. Another method is through a digital rectal exam, where during the exam, the doctor can feel for
any bumps or hard places on the prostate.
MORE
Ochiltree General Hospital
3101 Garrett Dr. | Perryton, TX 79070 | 806-435-3606
Prostate Cancer Second Leading Cause of Cancer Deaths Among Men
Page 2
Texas is one of more than 20 states in the nation that mandate insurance providers cover prostate
cancer screening as a basic service and not a deductible.
The American Cancer Society recommends men should begin annual screenings for prostate cancer
beginning at the age of 50.
For more information about prostate cancer and a screening schedule for you, it is advised that you talk
with your medical provider.
About Ochiltree General Hospital
Ochiltree General Hospital provides healthcare for residents of Ochiltree County. Founded in 1967,
Ochiltree General Hospital is a 25-bed healthcare facility that offers a wealth of medical services
including: 24 hour emergency care, advanced radiology services including CT scanning and MRIs,
outpatient lab, surgical services, physical rehabilitation, assisted living, CrossRoads, home health and
hospice services, and more. For additional information, please visit www.ochiltreehospital.com.
###
Ochiltree General Hospital
3101 Garrett Dr. | Perryton, TX 79070 | 806-435-3606