Prostate Cancer: Symptoms, Screening, and Treatment Options

February 6, 2026
Posted by Eberechi Anozie

06 Feb

Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers in men. While hearing the word “cancer” can be alarming, many prostate cancers grow slowly and are highly treatable - especially when detected early.

What Is Prostate Cancer?

Prostate cancer develops in the prostate, a small walnut-sized gland, below the bladder that helps produce semen. As men age, changes in the prostate are common, and in some cases, cancer can form.

Who Is at Risk?

You may be at higher risk for prostate cancer if you:

Are over age 50
Have a family history of prostate cancer
Are Black, as risk and aggressiveness are higher
Have obesity or limited physical activity

Symptoms of Prostate Cancer

Early prostate cancer often causes no symptoms, which is why screening matters. When symptoms occur, they may include:

Difficulty urinating or weak urine stream
Frequent urination, especially at night
Blood in urine or semen
Pelvic, hip, or lower back pain- seen more in advanced cases

These symptoms can also be caused by non-cancerous prostate conditions, but they should always be evaluated.

Prostate Cancer Screening

Screening may include:

PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) blood test
Digital rectal exam (DRE)

Screening decisions are individualized based on age, risk factors, and overall health. A conversation with your provider helps determine what’s right for you.

Diagnosis and Treatment

If prostate cancer is suspected, additional testing such as imaging or biopsy may be recommended. Treatment options vary and may include:

Active surveillance
Surgery
Radiation therapy
Hormone therapy

Many men with prostate cancer live long, healthy lives with proper monitoring and care.

When to See a Provider

You should talk to a medical professional about prostate health if you:

Are over 50 (or over 45 with risk factors)
Have urinary symptoms
Have a family history of prostate cancer
Want to discuss screening options

Take the Next Step

Early detection saves lives. If you have questions about prostate cancer screening or symptoms, our team is here to help.

Schedule an appointment with OasisRock Medical today to discuss your prostate health and screening options.

Newer Love as Preventive Medicine

Older Screening Tests You Shouldn’t Skip in 2026 – 6

09 Jan

Cervical Cancer Awareness Month

January is Cervical Cancer Awareness Month aka the perfect time to give your cervix a little extra appreciation. The good news? Cervical cancer is one of the most preventable cancers thanks to modern screening.

Why Screening Matters

Most cervical cancers are caused by HPV (human papillomavirus). HPV is very common and usually harmless but when it sticks around, it can cause cell changes. Screening finds those changes early, before cancer develops.

No symptoms? That’s normal. That’s why screening is so important.

The Newest Screening Recommendations

Start at Age 25

If you have a cervix and are at average risk, start screening at 25.

Best Test: HPV Test

HPV test every 5 years is now the preferred option

It looks directly for the virus that causes cervical cancer

New Option: Self-Collection

Some people can collect their own vaginal sample for HPV testing

This can be done in a clinic - and in some cases, at home

If the result is normal, you repeat screening in about 3 years

Other Acceptable Options

If HPV testing isn’t available:

HPV + Pap test (co-test): every 5 years

Pap test alone: every 3 years

Any screening is better than none!

When Can Screening Stop?

You can usually stop around age 65 if:

Your recent tests were normal

You’ve had regular screening over the years

Your healthcare provider can help decide what’s right for you.

What If a Test Is Abnormal?

Take a deep breath - abnormal does not always mean cancer.

Next steps may include:

A closer exam of the cervix (colposcopy)

Removing abnormal cells

More frequent follow-up testing

These steps prevent cancer from ever forming.

The Big Takeaway

Cervical cancer is highly preventable

Screening saves lives

New options make screening easier than ever

This month, do one simple thing for your health: check if you’re up to date on screening and encourage someone else to do the same.

Your cervix will thank you.

New Guidelines for cervical cancer screening were put out in late 2025. Breaking down new vs old guidelines:

	Old Guidelines	New Guidelines
Screening Start Age	Start screening at age 21 mainly with Pap tests.	Start screening at age 25 for average-risk individuals.
Preferred Screening Tests & Intervals	Pap test (cytology) alone: every 3 years starting at 21. Or HPV + Pap (co-test): every 5 years beginning around age HPV test alone was not deemed the main preferred option yet.	Primary HPV testing alone is now the preferred method every 5 years for ages 25–65. Self-collection of HPV sample: This is a new option that allows people to collect their own vaginal sample (at home or in the clinic, and if the result is negative, can be repeated every 3 years. Co-test (HPV + Pap) every 5 years: still acceptable if primary HPV testing isn’t available. Pap test alone: every 3 years only if other tests aren’t available.
When to Stop Screening	Stop at 65 if prior screenings were normal over the last 10 years.	Still stop around 60–65, but with clearer criteria which include Two negative primary HPV or co-tests before age 65. Or Three negative Pap tests in a row by age 65, If HPV/co-testing is not available.

Summary of the Breakdown

✅ Screening begins later - age 25 instead of 21 for most people.

✅ HPV testing is now preferred, not Pap smears.

✅ Self-collection for HPV is a new option, expanding access.

✅ Stopping rules are more detailed, especially around negative HPV tests.

31 Dec

Blogmas Holiday Edition – A healthy way to close out the year

Day 8 - How can I set healthy goals for the New Year?

Hi, I’m Dr. A of OasisRock, and welcome to our ‘Ask Dr. A’ Holiday Edition!’

“How can I set healthy goals for the New Year?”

Reflect on your health this year, set realistic goals, and plan regular check-ups. Start the new year with a focus on wellness.

Visit oasisrockmedical.com or call 6828826060 to schedule your next appointment today. Share this video and follow for more tips!

19 Dec

Primary Care is Preventive Care

What Is Primary Care?

Primary care is your first point of contact with the healthcare system. It includes routine checkups, screenings, vaccinations, and ongoing management of chronic conditions. More importantly, it’s about building a long-term relationship with a provider who understands your health history, lifestyle, and goals.

Prevention Starts With Consistency

Seeing a primary care provider regularly allows potential health issues to be identified early - often before they become serious or costly. Conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, and certain cancers can be managed more effectively when caught early.

Preventive care may include:

Annual wellness exams
Blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar screenings
Immunizations and booster shots
Women’s and men’s health screenings
Lifestyle counseling for nutrition, exercise, and stress management

These simple steps can significantly reduce the risk of long-term complications.

Prevention Helps Cut Down on ER and Hospital Visits

For patients living with chronic conditions, primary care plays a critical role in prevention. Regular monitoring and medication management help prevent flare-ups, hospital visits, and disease progression. Instead of reacting to emergencies, primary care focuses on keeping you stable, informed, and supported.

Prevention Saves Time, Stress, and Money

Preventive care doesn’t just protect your health. It also helps reduce medical costs and time spent dealing with avoidable illnesses. A routine visit today can prevent more serious (and expensive) treatments tomorrow.

Your Partner in Lifelong Health

At OasisRock Medical Centre, we’re committed to being your partner in prevention. Our approach to primary care is centered on preventive care, education, and continuity of care, so you can live a healthier, more confident life.

Take charge of your health today by scheduling a visit with our primary care team.

👉Call 6828826060 today to book your preventive care appointment.

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