Prostate Cancer Awareness Month

Prostate Cancer Awareness Month brings together healthcare professionals, community organizations, and advocates to raise awareness about prostate cancer. This disease primarily affects men over 50. Each year, nearly 175,000 men in the U.S. are diagnosed with prostate cancer, and about 32,000 die from it.

History

Prostate cancer is the second most common cancer among men, after skin cancer. The first operation to remove the prostate was performed by Dr. Hugh Hampton Young at Johns Hopkins Hospital in 1904. Since then, new treatment methods have been developed, such as injecting radium into the prostate and utilizing a variety of surgical techniques. In 1962, megavolt radiation therapy was introduced, benefitting patients whose cancer remained within the prostate gland. By 1966, a grading system was established to help doctors categorize prostate cancer risk as low, intermediate, or high.

Today, treatment often involves a combination of radiation therapy and hormone therapy. In the early 21st century, the first successful robotic surgery for prostate removal was performed. In 2010, the first anti-cancer vaccine for prostate cancer was officially approved, greatly improving survival rates for men affected by this disease.

Important Facts

• One in eight American men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in their lifetime.
• Prostate cancer is more common among African American men, with one in six being diagnosed.
• Age is a significant factor—six out of ten patients are older than 65.
• The disease can be hereditary—if close relatives have been diagnosed, your own risk is higher.
• Prostate cancer is more prevalent than colon, kidney, stomach cancer, and melanoma.

How to Observe Prostate Cancer Awareness Month

Educate yourself and others—greater awareness leads to earlier detection and better outcomes. Raise awareness by discussing prostate cancer on social media and sharing information about prevention, early symptoms, and available treatments. Consider volunteering to support those diagnosed with prostate cancer or donating to organizations that fund research for more effective treatments.

When is Prostate Cancer Awareness Month in 2025?

Prostate Cancer Awareness Month is observed annually starting September 1.

Observations