If you’re a man over 40 living in Brooklyn, chances are you’re juggling a lot—work, family, maybe a side hustle, and definitely the fast pace of city life. But in the middle of all that hustle, it’s easy to put your health on the back burner—especially when it comes to your prostate.
Prostate health is a topic many men avoid. But the truth is, prostate issues are extremely common and often highly treatable—if caught early. Whether you’re feeling perfectly fine or experiencing subtle changes, understanding what to look out for (and when to act) can make a major difference.
Here’s what every man over 40 in Brooklyn should know about their prostate—and why it matters more than you think.
What Is the Prostate and What Does It Do?
The prostate is a small, walnut-sized gland located below the bladder and in front of the rectum. It’s part of the male reproductive system and plays a key role in producing semen.
As men age, the prostate naturally enlarges. For some, this doesn’t cause problems. But for many, it leads to urinary and sexual health issues that can seriously affect quality of life.
Common Prostate Conditions in Men Over 40
1. Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)
Also known as an enlarged prostate, BPH is non-cancerous but can cause:
- Difficulty starting urination
- Weak or interrupted urine stream
- Frequent urination, especially at night
- Feeling like your bladder never fully empties
BPH affects nearly 50% of men by age 60—and more than 90% by age 85. In a city like Brooklyn where life doesn’t slow down, these symptoms can really get in the way. Thankfully, there are several non-surgical, in-office treatments available that can dramatically improve symptoms.
2. Prostatitis
This is inflammation or infection of the prostate, often seen in younger or middle-aged men. It can cause:
- Pelvic pain
- Pain during urination or ejaculation
- Flu-like symptoms (in acute cases)
Prostatitis is treatable, but it often requires a correct diagnosis and a customized treatment plan. If you’ve been having recurring pelvic discomfort, it’s time to talk to a urologist.
3. Prostate Cancer
Prostate cancer is the second most common cancer in men, after skin cancer. The risk increases with age, and while early prostate cancer often has no symptoms, it can be detected through screening.
That’s why screening is so important.
Prostate Cancer Screening: When and Why It Matters
The two primary tests used for prostate cancer screening are:
- PSA blood test (Prostate-Specific Antigen)
- Digital rectal exam (DRE)
The American Urological Association recommends discussing screening options with your doctor starting around age 50, or age 40–45 if you have risk factors such as:
- A family history of prostate cancer
- African American heritage
- A known genetic mutation like BRCA1/2
Screening is not one-size-fits-all. Some men may need yearly PSA tests, while others may go several years between screenings. The key is to have the conversation with your doctor—sooner rather than later.
Why Brooklyn Men Are at Risk of Overlooking Prostate Health
Living in Brooklyn has its perks: incredible diversity, amazing food, and a nonstop energy that’s hard to match. But that lifestyle can also be overwhelming and stressful. Unfortunately, when life gets busy, preventive care often falls off the radar.
Here are a few reasons local men delay prostate checkups:
- Embarrassment or discomfort discussing symptoms
- Lack of symptoms (many prostate issues are silent at first)
- Misunderstanding of what screenings involve
- Busy schedules or lack of time
But here’s the truth: Prostate issues don’t go away on their own. And the longer you wait, the fewer options you may have for easy, minimally invasive treatments.
How We Help Men Take Control of Their Health in Brooklyn
At our Brooklyn-based urology clinic, we offer:
- Discreet, compassionate care
- Convenient appointments with minimal wait times
- State-of-the-art screening and treatment options
- A team that understands your concerns and treats you with respect
Whether you need a simple PSA test or have symptoms you’ve been ignoring, we’re here to help you get the answers—and care—you need.
Take the First Step: Prioritize Your Prostate Health Today
You take care of your job, your family, your responsibilities. Now it’s time to take care of yourself.
If you’re a man over 40 and haven’t had your prostate checked—or if you’ve been experiencing urinary or sexual health issues—it’s time to talk to a urologist.
Your health is your greatest asset. Don’t wait until it’s too late. We recommend urologist brooklyn.