Prostate Health 101: Your Movember Guide to Prevention and Early Detection

Credit: Adobe Stock/Chinnapong

Every November, men around the world grow mustaches — not for fashion, but for a cause. Movember is a global movement dedicated to raising awareness about men’s health, including prostate cancer, testicular cancer, mental health and suicide prevention. It’s a reminder to check in, speak up and take charge of your health. One of the most important topics highlighted during Movember is prostate health. Whether you’re in your 30s, 50s or beyond, understanding how to protect your prostate can make a life-changing difference.

Why Prostate Health Matters

The prostate is a small gland about the size of a walnut, located just below the bladder. Many men don’t think about it — until there’s a problem. As men age, prostate issues become more common. More than 50% of men over age 50 and up to 90% of men over age 80 experience prostate enlargement. Prostate cancer is also the second most common cancer in men worldwide.

The good news? Early detection saves lives. When caught early, prostate cancer has a very high survival rate. Yet many men avoid screening or don’t talk about symptoms because prostate issues may feel embarrassing or uncomfortable to discuss. Movember is here to change that.

Common Prostate Conditions to Know

1. Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)
Often known as “enlarged prostate,” BPH is not cancer, but it can cause bothersome symptoms such as the following:

• Frequent or urgent need to urinate
• Weakened urine stream
• Waking up at night to urinate
• Feeling like the bladder isn't fully empty

Treatments range from lifestyle changes to medication and small outpatient procedures.

2. Prostatitis
This is inflammation or infection of the prostate. It can affect men of all ages and cause pelvic pain, pain when urinating or flu-like symptoms. Treatment may include antibiotics, anti-inflammatory medications, warm baths, pelvic floor therapy or lifestyle changes.

3. Prostate cancer
Prostate cancer often grows slowly, and many men have no symptoms at first. When symptoms do appear, they may include changes in urination, blood in urine or semen, or persistent back, hip or pelvic pain. Screening is key to catching cancer early — before symptoms start.

Screening: What You Need to Know

There isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach to screening, so understanding your personal risk is important.

Most guidelines recommend the following:

• Discuss screening at age 50 for average-risk men.
• Start the conversation at age 45 for men at higher risk, including Black men and those with a father, brother or son who had prostate cancer.
• Begin at age 40 if you carry higher-risk genetic mutations (such as BRCA2).

Screening may include a prostate-specific antigen blood test and sometimes a digital rectal exam. Not everyone who is screened will need further tests or treatment, but screening helps you and your doctor make informed decisions.

How to Support Your Prostate Health

While you can’t control age or genetics, you can adopt habits that support prostate health:

1. Choose a balanced diet. Aim for fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins. Foods rich in antioxidants — including tomatoes, berries, leafy greens and nuts — may help reduce inflammation.
2. Keep moving. Regular physical activity helps maintain a healthy weight, supports hormone balance and lowers cancer risk.
3. Maintain a healthy weight. Obesity is linked to a higher risk of aggressive prostate cancer.
4. Limit smoking and alcohol. Both can affect overall cancer risk and urinary symptoms.
5. Stay hydrated. Drinking enough water supports urinary and prostate health.
6. Manage stress. Chronic stress can affect hormone levels and inflammation. Meditation, therapy and staying connected socially all help — another reminder of Movember’s mental health message.

Why Talking Matters

One of the biggest barriers to men’s health is silence. Many men wait too long to seek help, whether for prostate symptoms or mental health.

This month, challenge yourself to talk openly — with friends, family or your doctor. Encourage the men in your life to schedule their check-ups, learn family health history, talk about any changes in their bodies or mood, and reach out if they’re struggling.