By Matthew C. Ferroni, MD, Mercy Urology Clinic

Too often, men wait until something feels wrong before calling a doctor. When it comes to prostate cancer, that can be a dangerous choice because early prostate cancer often has no symptoms at all. That’s why September, Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, is an important reminder for men to pay attention to their health, know their risks and talk with their primary care provider about whether a PSA screening is right for them.

About one in eight men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer during his lifetime. Here in Iowa, that message carries extra urgency: The Iowa Cancer Registry has reported that Iowa continues to have one of the highest rates of new cancer diagnoses in the nation, ranking second among states for age-adjusted cancer incidence.

Statistics become personal when they involve someone in your own family or community. Eastern Iowa businessman Dave Reiss, of Manchester, knows that well. Dave had no symptoms that told him he had prostate cancer. What he did have was a family history – his father had prostate cancer – and a willingness to keep an eye on his PSA numbers over time.

When Dave’s PSA levels began rising, his care team didn’t ignore the trend. His primary care provider referred him for further evaluation, and he soon met with me at Mercy Urology Clinic at Hall-Perrine Cancer Center. A biopsy confirmed prostate cancer, and after considering his options, Dave underwent a robotic prostatectomy in December 2024. Because his cancer was found through screening and follow-up – not because he was experiencing symptoms – he had the opportunity to act before the disease became more advanced. He remains cancer-free almost two years later.

Dave’s story also shows the value of care close to home. After surgery, he was able to see me for regularly scheduled follow-up visits at our MercyCare outreach clinic in Manchester. That mattered because Dave owns and operates Bushel and A Peck, a busy, modern-day general store in Manchester where the seasons bring a steady supply of fruit, vegetables, baked goods, holiday décor and, always, the store’s famous cinnamon rolls. For Dave, every minute of the day is precious. He told me he was so grateful for his follow-up appointments close to home.

His recovery is another important part of the story. Dave was released from the hospital the day after surgery and returned to light work within a few days. Every patient’s experience is

different, but Dave’s outcome reflects what can happen when a patient is proactive, informed and closely connected with his medical team.

Men are not always comfortable talking about prostate health. I understand the hesitations, but I also see firsthand why it’s so important to stay on top of your health.

A PSA screening is a simple blood test that measures prostate-specific antigen, a protein produced by the prostate. A single number doesn’t tell the whole story, but changes over time can provide important clues. For many men, the first conversation should happen with a primary care provider around age 45 or earlier for those with a family history of prostate cancer or other risk factors. The important thing is to start the conversation, understand your risk and make a plan with your provider.

If you have questions about prostate cancer screening, changes in urinary symptoms, family history or a previous PSA result, don’t wait.

Talk with your primary care provider about PSA screening. For more information, visit www.mercycare.org/prostate or call Mercy Urology Clinic at (319) 398-6865. A simple blood test – and the decision to advocate for your own health – could save your life.