Each year, the week leading up to Father’s Day is designated to be “National Men’s Health Week,” a time to focus on the health issues that face men today in America. This special time provides an opportunity to increase public awareness of prostate cancer, a form of cancer which affects one in six American men at some point during their lifetime.

Prostate cancer is the second-leading cause of cancer death among men, and the most common type of cancer found in men, other than skin cancer. The American Cancer Society estimates that approximately 27,000 men will die as a result of the disease this year.

Because of the significant numbers of men who are affected each year by the disease, and the cancer’s life-threatening consequences, it is important that all men know and understand the preventative measures and warning signs which exist for prostate cancer.

Studies have shown that prostate cancer may be prevented through a healthy lifestyle. In particular, a healthy diet has been shown to reduce the incidence of prostate cancer in men.

A healthy diet is considered to be one that includes eating less fat and more vegetables, fruits, and grains. The American Cancer Society suggests a diet low in red meats, particularly those that are high in fat content, and with five or more servings of fruits and vegetables each day.

Some studies have also shown that 500 milligrams of Vitamin E daily may lower the risk of prostate cancer, although other studies have found no benefit in the practice. On the other hand, Vitamin A supplements may actually increase the risk for prostate cancer.

Beginning at the age of 50 years, men who have had no serious medical problems should receive annual tests for prostate cancer. There are two methods that are the most commonly used to detect the disease.

The first of these methods is a blood test that detects elevated amounts of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) in the blood. A high level of PSA may indicate prostate cancer.

The second method is the digital rectal exam (DRE). With this test, a doctor can determine whether prostate cancer is present by detecting any abnormalities in the prostate.

National Men’s Health Week is an opportune time for men to ensure that their medical records are up-to-date, or for family members to encourage their fathers, sons, and brothers to visit a doctor for a check-up. For more information on the risks, symptoms and treatments for prostate cancer, please visit the American Cancer Society’s Web site.

Rick Boucher is Congressman for the 9th District of Virginia, which includes the New River Valley. You can catch his Capitol Commentary regularly at newrivervoice.com.