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September is Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, a timely reminder for men across Wellard and the wider community to think about their own health and, where relevant, have a conversation with their GP. At Bertram Family Medical Centre (BFMC), we wanted to share a bit of general information about prostate cancer awareness and why these conversations are worth having, even if nothing seems wrong.
What Is Prostate Cancer Awareness Month
Prostate Cancer Awareness Month is a national campaign held every September, aimed at improving understanding of prostate cancer, encouraging open conversations, and supporting men to make informed decisions about their own health in partnership with their GP. Awareness campaigns like this exist because prostate health isn’t always something men think to bring up, particularly when there are no obvious symptoms.
Why Screening Matters
Prostate cancer is one of the most commonly diagnosed cancers in Australian men. Screening decisions are individual, and the right approach depends on a person’s age, family history and personal circumstances. Rather than a one-size-fits-all recommendation, current guidance encourages men to have an informed conversation with their GP about the potential benefits and limitations of testing, so they can make a decision that’s right for them.
Who Might Consider a Conversation About Screening
Generally, discussions about prostate health become more relevant from around age 50 onwards, or earlier for men with a family history of prostate cancer. This isn’t medical advice for any individual situation, it’s simply a starting point for thinking about whether a conversation with your GP could be worthwhile. Your GP can talk through your personal risk factors, including family history and any symptoms, and help you decide what, if anything, makes sense for you.
Understanding Risk Factors
A few factors are generally understood to increase the likelihood of prostate cancer, including age, a family history of prostate or certain other cancers, and ethnicity. None of these factors guarantee an outcome either way, they simply help inform how relevant a screening conversation might be for a particular person. Your GP is best placed to help you understand how these factors apply to your own situation.
What to Expect When You Book
If you’d like to talk to a GP about prostate health, booking an appointment at BFMC is straightforward. Your GP will usually start by asking about your general health, family history and any symptoms, before discussing whether further conversation or testing is appropriate. BFMC also has onsite pathology, which can make follow-up testing more convenient if that’s the path you and your GP decide on together, without needing a separate trip to another provider.
Frequently Asked Questions
At what age should I start thinking about this?
There’s no single answer, it depends on individual and family risk factors. A conversation with your GP is the best starting point.
Does Bertram Family Medical Centre (BFMC) offer prostate cancer screening?
BFMC’s GPs can discuss prostate health and arrange appropriate testing where relevant, alongside onsite pathology support.
Do I need a referral?
No referral is needed to book a GP appointment to discuss this, simply book online or call reception.
Is this only relevant if I have symptoms?
Not necessarily, many men without symptoms still choose to have this conversation with their GP, particularly if they have a family history.
What does BFMC’s billing look like for this kind of appointment?
BFMC offers full bulk billing for all valid Medicare and DVA card holders — reception can talk you through what to expect for your specific visit.
Book Your Visit Today
If Prostate Cancer Awareness Month has prompted you to think about your own health, a conversation with your GP is a simple place to start. Book online today, or call reception to arrange a time.
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