Prostate and Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month

This month is dedicated to both prostate cancer
awareness and ovarian
cancer
awareness. Each year, about 45,000 people are killed from these
cancers with about 230,000 diagnoses annually. At Sweeney & Sweeney, we
believe that knowledge is power, so the more you know, the better protected you
can be.

Ovarian Cancer:
Ovarian cancer often goes undetected until it has already metastasized (spread)
to the pelvis and abdomen and has a ~70% mortality rate.

  •             Symptoms
    can include abdominal pressure, fullness, swelling, or bloating; pelvic pain or
    discomfort; persistent indigestion, gas, or nausea; changes in bowel habits,
    such as constipation; changes in bladder habits, including a frequent need to
    pee; loss of appetite or quickly feeling full; persistent lack of energy, and
    low back pain. You should always see a doctor if you have any signs or symptoms
    that concern you.
  •             There are
    certain things that can increase your risk of developing ovarian cancer
    including genetics (i.e. having the BRCA gene or inheriting nonpolyposis
    colorectal cancer); having a family history of ovarian cancer; having a
    previous cancer diagnosis; aging; and never having been pregnant.
  •             However,
    there are some ways to reduce your risk of developing ovarian cancer including
    taking birth control pills. If you have a genetic predisposition to ovarian
    cancer, you can talk to your doctor about other prevention methods specific to
    you.

Prostate Cancer:
Prostate cancer is one of the most common types of cancer in men, usually grows
slowly, and stays confined in the prostate gland; and has a ~13% mortality
rate.

  •             There are
    often no symptoms in the early stages of prostate cancer (which is why it’s
    important to get checked), however, at more advanced stages, symptoms can
    include trouble peeing; decreased force of the stream; blood in the urine;
    blood in the semen; general pain in the lower back, hips, or thighs; discomfort
    in the pelvic area; bone pain; or erectile dysfunction. You should always see a
    doctor if you have any signs or symptoms that concern you.
  •             Certain
    things can increase your risk of developing prostate cancer including aging,
    African heritage, family history of prostate or breast cancer, and obesity.
  •             However,
    there are some preventative measures you can take including maintaining a
    healthy diet, exercising most days of the week, maintaining a healthy weight.

Also remember, when Health Care Reform takes effect, no one
can be denied health coverage because of a pre-existing condition, so call up Sweeney
& Sweeney to discuss your options, learn more, and sign up!