The Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) test is the most effective tool we have to detect prostate cancer, and, most instances of prostate cancer are initially detected with this test. By testing the PSA levels, we are able to detect possible signs of prostate cancer. The earlier the disease is caught, the higher the survival rates: prostate cancer caught in Stage 1 is almost 100% survivable. However, if caught at a later stage, survival rates plummet to 30% or lower. 

Costs equal barriers to screening and prevention. Studies show that even the smallest amount in cost-sharing is a barrier to access for many. Too many men in vulnerable groups delay getting tested for prostate cancer, which decreases their odds of survival.

Prostate Cancer by the Numbers

• 1 in 8 American men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in their lifetime.
• Every 2 minutes, a person is diagnosed with prostate cancer in America.
• Men with at least one close family member with prostate cancer are at least 2x the risk for prostate cancer; risk increases with each affected family member.
• Black men are 1.8x more likely to be diagnosed with prostate cancer, and 2.2x more likely to die from the disease.
• Men with certain inherited genetic mutations such as BRCA2, face up to a 60% lifetime risk of prostate cancer versus a 12% risk for the average man.