Prostate health: what men over 50 need to know

For men over 50 in Perth, prostate health deserves the same attention as diet, exercise and mental wellbeing. Yet many still avoid conversations about screening and symptoms, often until problems become serious.

The prostate is a walnut-sized gland that produces fluid for semen. As men age, hormonal changes can cause it to enlarge—a condition called benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). While not cancer, BPH can cause frequent urination, weak urine flow, and interrupted sleep. More serious is prostate cancer, which affects one in six Australian men at some point in their lives.

"The key is early detection," says Dr Michael Chen, a GP at Nedlands Medical Centre on Stirling Street. "Men over 50 should discuss screening options with their doctor. There's no one-size-fits-all approach, but awareness saves lives."

Two main screening tools exist: the PSA blood test (prostate-specific antigen) and the digital rectal examination (DRE). Both have benefits and limitations—a GP can explain which suits your circumstances. Men with a family history of prostate cancer, or who are of African descent, face higher risk and may benefit from earlier conversations with their doctor.

Lifestyle changes support prostate health at any age. Regular physical activity—whether it's a Saturday morning parkrun at Kings Park, a cycle along the Swan River paths, or a swim in the Indian Ocean near Scarborough—has been shown to reduce risk. Aim for 150 minutes of moderate exercise weekly. A diet rich in tomatoes, berries, and leafy greens, while limiting red meat and processed foods, may also help.

Weight management matters too. Excess weight increases inflammation and can worsen urinary symptoms.

If you're experiencing symptoms—hesitancy, urgency, nocturia (waking at night to urinate), or blood in urine—don't wait. Book an appointment with your local GP or contact WACHS (Western Australian Country Health Service) if you're outside Perth metro. Many bulk-billed services operate across suburbs like Applecross, Subiaco, and Fremantle, making screening accessible.

Prostate health isn't just medical—it's about maintaining independence and quality of life. A 20-minute conversation with your doctor now could prevent years of discomfort later. Whether you're cycling the river, climbing Kings Park trails, or simply living your best life in Perth, taking charge of your prostate health is a practical, empowering step forward.

This article was compiled by AI from the sources linked above and screened before publishing. See our editorial standards.