September is Prostate and Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month

Being aware of the symptoms and effects of specific types of cancer is the first step in treating the disease and potentially finding cures. During the month of September, Preston Memorial Hospital recognizes both Prostate and Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month. Here is what you need to know about these two diseases.

Prostate Cancer

Cancer of the Prostate is one of the most common cancers affecting men. It generally impacts older adults and is typically slow growing. It is also not prone to spread to other organs, generally staying confined to the prostate gland. This makes it a very manageable form of cancer. Despite its treProstate Cancer Foundation, it is the second leading cause of cancer death among men in the United States, with over 29,000 men dying annually. As with all cancers, early detection is a key to successful treatment. Some of the most common symptoms of Prostate Cancer include:

• Difficult urination
• Weak urine stream
• Blood in semen
• Pelvic discomfort
• Pain in bones
• Erectile dysfunction

Ovarian Cancer

According to ovariancancerawarness.org, Ovarian Cancer is among the most deadly forms of cancer in women. Nearly 22,000 women are diagnosed with the disease annually. In 2014, over 14,000 women in the United States died from the disease. The illness typically impacts women in their 50’s or 60’s with the average patient age, 63. Symptoms for this disease include:

• Abdominal bloating
• Pelvic or abdominal discomfort
• Difficulty eating and rapid hunger satiety
• Increased urination and urgency 
• Digestive issues including nausea, indigestion, gas, constipation or diarrhea
• Severe fatigue
• Difficulty catching breath
• Backache
• Rapid weight increases

At Preston Memorial Hospital, we support the fight against all types of cancer by increasing awareness of the disease. Preston Memorial Hospital aims to improve the health of our community through compassionate, professional healthcare. To learn more about what Preston Memorial Hospital can do for you, please visit our website.