A simple blood test can save a life. Just ask Ben Stiller.
Stiller, who recently announced he was diagnosed, and treated, for prostate cancer, said he found out he was sick after taking a prostate-specific antigen test.
The PSA test measures protein levels associated with the prostate, according to Jessica Martinez, certified clinical medical assistant at Any Lab Test Now.
“A lot of men don’t know that they have a prostate problem until they do get it checked,” Martinez explained.
Martinez recommended men nearing the age of 50 get tested, as well as men who have a family history of cancer.
She said symptoms include “painful urination, especially during night. Blood in your urine, or semen…”
“If you let it go untreated it can cause very many problems for you,” Martinez said.
Any Lab Test Now stated that prostate cancer is expected to kill more than 27,000 men this year. The disease affects one in every 7 men.
Outgoing United States Representative Randy Neugebauer, (R- District 19) has publicly spoken often of his battle with prostate cancer.
“I’ve been able to continue working, and get this treatment, but more importantly, feel blessed to have the opportunity to highlight something that’s very important to the American people and that is taking ctonrol of our own health,” Neugebauer said in a 2015 interview with EverythingLubbock.com.
Both Stiller and Neugebauer said they were cancer-free.
“Bottom line is, basically come and get checked even if you don’t think it could possibly be you, it’s better to be safe than sorry,” Martinez added.
