Prostate cancer is a common cancer among men and is accompanied by difficulty urinating, blood in urine, frequent urination, and pain during urination. However, it is quite treatable if it is caught early enough. That is why men are encouraged to get prostate cancer screenings. Some men, though, may be reluctant to schedule these exams for one reason or another.

Here are some common myths about prostate cancer and screenings.

If You Feel Fine, You Don't Need a Prostate Cancer Test

Some men assume that they do not need a prostate cancer screening if they do not have any symptoms. However, prostate cancer often does not present symptoms in the beginning stages. That's why regular screenings are so important. The earlier you catch prostate cancer, the easier it is to treat.

Getting a Prostate Exam Is Too Embarrassing

Unfortunately, there are some men who may feel embarrassed or that it’s weak to get a prostate exam. However, there is nothing to be embarrassed about. In fact, scheduling a prostate screening shows that you are smart about your health. 

Prostate Screenings Are Not Helpful

This is another common myth. Prostate cancer exams are very helpful because they can detect prostate cancer in the early stages. As mentioned before, prostate cancer may not show symptoms initially. Your doctor may advise you to get a screening if you have certain risk factors, like a family history of the disease or older age.

Prostate Cancer Always Causes Death

There is denying that prostate cancer is a serious disease. However, there have been many advances in medical treatments in recent years. If the disease is caught early through testing, there is a very good chance of survival.

Only Older Men Get Prostate Cancer

Prostate cancer does tend to occur among older men, but younger men can develop the illness too. For example, younger men with a family history of prostate cancer have a higher chance of getting diagnosed with the disease.

If Your Prostate Cancer Returns, You Can't Treat It Again

Finding out that your prostate cancer has come back can be devastating. However, that doesn't mean that you don't have any treatment options left. Your doctor can go over your treatment options with you.

As you can see, there are a lot of myths about prostate cancer and testing. If you have questions about your prostate cancer risk, you should make an appointment with a doctor.