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Call Annie Jeffrey Health Center at (402) 747-2031 for more information

September is Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month. Ovarian cancer begins in the cells that make up the ovaries. There are symptoms of ovarian cancer. They are: · Abdominal pressure, bloating or discomfort · Nausea, indigestion or gas · Urinary frequency, constipation or diarrhea · Abdominal bleeding · Unusual fatigue · Unexplained weight gain or loss · Shortness of breath These symptoms do not always indicate ovarian cancer and can mimic other conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome.

Please call 402-747-2031 for more information or to make an appointment.

September is Prostate Cancer Awareness Month. Prostate cancer is the second leading cause of cancer related deaths in men in the United States, but it can be treated effectively if caught in its early stages. About 1 man in 8 will be diagnosed with prostate cancer during his lifetime. Prostate cancer is a common, but usually slow growing cancer. Some men have a much higher risk, such as men with a relative who has had prostate cancer. Almost all men diagnosed with prostate cancer are still alive five years after the cancer is detected.

There are two tests used to detect prostate cancer; a blood test, called the Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) test and a physical exam, called the Digital Rectal Exam (DRE). Your health care provider will provide these tests. Men should start yearly screenings at age 50 unless you are at high risk. Some men choose to take the PSA test at age 40 to establish a baseline level for future comparison. There are no noticeable symptoms of prostate cancer while it is still in the early stages, which is why screening is so critical. In more advanced stages, symptoms may include difficult or frequent urination, blood in the urine or bone pain. To find prostate cancer in its most treatable form, it must be caught before symptoms appear.

Changing your diet can lower your risk of prostate cancer. A low fat diet with lots of fruits and vegetables is a good start. Studies show a strong connection between consumption of saturated fat and red meat and increased rates of prostate cancer.

In its early stages, prostate cancer causes no symptoms. When symptoms do occur, they may include: · dull pain in the lower pelvic area, · frequent urination, · problems with urination, such as the inability to urinate, pain or burning when urinating, blood in the urine, · general pain in the lower back, hips or upper thighs, · loss of appetite and weight, · persistent bone pain. Many options are available for treating prostate cancer. Your health care provider can help you choose the right plan for you. For more information on prostate cancer screenings, talk to your health care provider or call Annie Jeffrey Health Center at 402-747-2031.