Prostate cancer death rate sees worrisome spike: What’s causing the increase?

Prostate cancer is the second most common form of cancer affecting men, with over 191,000 new cases and 33,000 deaths in the United States each year. However, recent reports indicate that the number of deaths due to prostate cancer has seen a worrisome increase, with some experts attributing the rise to a combination of factors.

According to a recent study published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute, the death rate for prostate cancer has increased rapidly since 2012 and shows no sign of slowing down. The researchers found that from 2012 to 2016, the age-adjusted death rate for prostate cancer increased from 16.2 to 18.2 per 100,000 men, representing a 12.4% jump in just four years.

So what’s causing this worrying increase in prostate cancer deaths? There are several factors at play, with some being more significant than others.

First, there is the issue of early diagnosis. While there are excellent screening methods for prostate cancer, such as the PSA test, not every man is getting screened at the recommended intervals. The U.S. Preventative Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommends that men between the ages of 55 and 69 talk to their doctor about the pros and cons of getting screened for prostate cancer with a PSA test. However, many men are not following this advice, and as a result, the cancer is being detected at a later stage, when it’s harder to treat.

Second, there is the issue of access to healthcare. Unfortunately, many men, especially those in rural or low-income areas, do not have access to proper healthcare, which can result in missed opportunities for early detection and treatment.

Third, there is the issue of obesity. Prostate cancer is more common in men who are overweight or obese, and excess body weight can make the cancer more aggressive and harder to treat.

Fourth, there is the issue of treatment. Despite advances in prostate cancer treatment, some men are still not receiving the best care possible. This can be due to a lack of education and awareness on the part of healthcare professionals, as well as insurance coverage limitations.

Fifth, there is the issue of genetics. Some men are at a higher risk of developing prostate cancer due to their family history, and this risk may be amplified by other factors such as obesity or poor healthcare access.

In conclusion, the increase in prostate cancer death rates is a complex issue with multiple contributing factors. While early detection and treatment remain essential, addressing broader issues such as healthcare access and education could also help reduce the number of deaths due to prostate cancer. If you or someone you know is at an increased risk of prostate cancer due to factors such as family history or obesity, it’s essential to speak to your doctor about regular screening and treatment options.