Prostate Cancer Survivor Advocates for Early Detection During Awareness Month

As September marks Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, one local survivor is sharing his story to encourage men to take control of their health through early screening.

Paul Anthony Colacchio was diagnosed with prostate cancer eight years ago at age 54 after experiencing frequent nighttime urination that disrupted his sleep. Initially told by his doctor to "watch and wait" due to his age, Colacchio pursued further testing that ultimately saved his life.

"My PSA test showed 1.4, which is well below the typical concern threshold of 4-7," Colacchio explained. "But I had full-blown cancer. If I had relied on that test alone, I would have died."

The key to his diagnosis was a prostate MRI, which revealed cancer that was growing outside the prostate and required immediate surgical intervention to prevent it from becoming metastatic.

Colacchio emphasizes that men in their 40s are now being diagnosed with prostate cancer, making early detection crucial. He advocates for men to request both PSA blood tests and prostate MRIs, comparing the screening to women's routine mammograms.

"Cancer doesn't discriminate," he said. "Men need to start taking charge of their healthcare. If you want to see your children and grandchildren, take half an hour to get checked."

Statistics show more men are dying from prostate cancer than ever before, often due to shame or reluctance to seek testing.

Watch the full interview by NBC Palm Springs Mary Strong by clicking the video above