Here’s a startling fact: nearly 15% of men over 18 were reported to be in fair or poor health in 2023, according to the CDC. But here’s where it gets even more alarming—cancer remains one of the leading causes of death among men. So, what can men do to take control of their health? It starts with preventative care, and one crucial step is prostate cancer screenings. And this is the part most people miss—it’s not just about the screening itself, but about dismantling the stigma and building a supportive community around men’s health.
Dr. Sami Mostafa, a urologist with California Urology, emphasizes the importance of community in men’s health. ‘Men need a little bit of a community,’ he says. ‘A non-judgmental space where they can openly discuss their health concerns is key.’ Prostate cancer, for instance, affects about 1 in 8 men globally—that’s 12% of the male population. Think about it: this could be your father, brother, or even you. But here’s the controversial part—despite its prevalence, many men still avoid screenings due to fear, stigma, or lack of awareness. Is this a cultural issue, or simply a lack of education? Let’s discuss.
To address this gap, cCare partnered with California Urology and Central Valley Medical & Women’s Imaging over the summer to expand healthcare access in Central California. This collaboration creates an in-house network for patients dealing with cancer diagnoses, streamlining the process so patients can focus on their health rather than navigating logistics. ‘Patients shouldn’t have to worry about finding a surgeon or scheduling appointments with an oncologist,’ explains Dr. Mostafa. ‘We’re here to simplify that for them.’
Screenings are recommended for men between 55 and 69 years old, though Dr. Mostafa notes that advanced technology, like MRIs, can detect about 85% of clinically significant cancers. Blood tests are another option. The key takeaway? Early detection makes treatment more manageable and successful. But here’s a thought-provoking question—why do so many men still delay or avoid these screenings? Is it fear, stigma, or something else entirely? Share your thoughts in the comments.
For more updates on this and other health topics, follow Ana Torrea on Facebook, X, and Instagram. And remember, taking charge of your health isn’t just a personal choice—it’s a responsibility to yourself and those who care about you. So, what’s stopping you from scheduling that screening today?