What to Know to Stay Healthy

Prostate cancer starts when bad cells grow in the prostate gland (part of the male reproductive system.) The prostate gland is what makes semen.

What Increases Your Risk

Your chances of getting prostate cancer may increase because of:

  • Age. Getting older is the main risk factor for prostate cancer. Most cases happen after age 65.
  • Family History. Your risk is higher if someone in your family has it.
  • Race. Prostate cancer is more common among African Americans.

Lowering Your Risk

There is no sure way to stop prostate cancer. Many risk factors such as age, race, and family history can’t be controlled. But there are things you can do to lower your risk:

  • Stay at a healthy weight
  • Stay active by working out
  • Eat healthy foods
  • Stop smoking and vaping

Visit our Health and Wellness page to get tips on how to stay active, eat healthy, and quit smoking.

Symptoms

Prostate cancer may not cause symptoms early on. See your doctor right away if you have any of these symptoms:

  • Not being able to pee
  • Slow flow of urine
  • Peeing often, and more at night
  • Pain or burning while peeing

Less common symptoms may include:

  • Not being able to have an erection
  • Blood in your urine or semen
  • Pain in your lower back, belly, hips, or pelvis that doesn’t go away

It’s important to have a conversation with your primary care provider* (PCP) about screening for prostate cancer.
*Your primary care provider (PCP) is the doctor, physician assistant, or nurse practitioner in charge of your health care.

SFHP Benefits

San Francisco Health Plan covers routine patient care costs for the prevention, detection, or treatment of cancer. Learn more about your benefits.

Care Management Programs

If you are diagnosed with prostate cancer and want support, you can get help from the SFHP Care Management Program. Our care team can help you:

  • Learn how to manage your medical conditions.
  • Get referrals for community agencies, such as for food and behavioral health.
  • Work with our nurse to get ready for your next appointment.
  • Work with your care team to better understand your medications.

If you are interested, please call our intake line at 1(415) 615-4515. This service is free for SFHP members.

You can get help with transportation for your medical appointments. Visit our Benefits page to learn more.

More Help from SFHP

  • Customer Service: Our team can answer your questions about benefits and health services. Call 1(415) 547-7800, 1(800) 288-5555 (toll-free) or 1(415) 547-7830 TTY. Monday to Friday, 8:30am to 5:30pm.
  • Interpreter Services: You can get an interpreter in-person or by phone for your health visits. When you make an appointment, ask for an interpreter at the same time.
  • Need a Ride? SFHP can help you get transportation to any medical appointment covered by Medi-Cal. Ask your provider or call Customer Service.
  • Interested in Medi-Cal Benefits? See if you or your family can get Medi-Cal through SFHP.

Learn more about your covered Medi-Cal benefits and services.