September is Prostate Cancer Awareness Month

The prostate is a small walnut-shape gland in males that produces the seminal fluid that nourishes and transports sperm.  Approximately 1 man in 8 will be diagnosed with Prostate Cancer and it’s more likely to develop in men or are 65 and older. About 6 out of 10 cases are men who are older than 65, and it is rare in men under 40. The average age of men at diagnosis is about 66.

Prostate cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in American men, lung cancer is number one. About 1 man in 41 will die of prostate cancer.  Prostate cancer can be a serious disease, but most men diagnosed do not die from it. In fact, more than 3.1 million men in the United States who have been diagnosed with prostate cancer at some point, are still alive today.

In its early stages, Prostate cancer may cause no signs or symptoms. In its advance stages symptoms that may appear are:

• Trouble urinating
• Decreased force in the stream of urine
• Blood in the urine
• Blood in the semen
• Bone pain
• Losing weight without trying
• Erectile dysfunction

If you have persistent signs or symptoms, it is important to make an appointment with your doctor immediately.

Some things your can do to reduce your risk of prostate cancer is to choose a healthy diet, full of fruits and vegetables. Get regular exercise and maintain a healthy weight.

 As always, if you’re concerned about your risk of developing prostate cancer, talk with your healthcare provider.

Read below for your Iron Road Healthcare prostate exam benefits:

Challenger Plan and 60/30 Plus Plan:

one (1) prostate screening antigen (PSA) test every three (3) years after age forty-nine (49), and more frequently if recommended by an Iron Road Network Provider.

Medicare Part B (Medical Insurance):

covers digital rectal exams and prostate specific antigen (PSA) blood tests once every 12 months for men over 50 (starting the day after your 50th birthday).

Your costs in Original Medicare

• Digital rectal exam: You pay 20% of the Medicare-Approved Amount for a yearly digital rectal exam and for your doctor’s services related to the exam. The Part B deductible applies. In a hospital outpatient setting, you pay a copayment
• PSA test: You pay nothing for a yearly PSA blood test. If you get the test from a doctor that doesn’t accept assignment you may have to pay an additional fee for the doctor’s services, but not for the test itself.
• Medicare https://www.medicare.gov/coverage/prostate-cancer-screenings