Men, pay attention.

September is Prostate Awareness Month.

Prostate cancer is the 2nd leading cause of cancer in men.

Prostate cancer occurs from a small gland between the bladder and genital area.

The prostate is a small walnut-shaped gland that produces seminal fluid.

Prostate cancer usually occurs in men age 50 and older.

Men who eat a low-fiber, high-fat diet have a higher rate of prostate cancer.

Having a high body mass index can also increase your risk of prostate cancer.

Prostate cancer grows slowly and initially remains confined to the prostate gland.

When still confined to the prostate gland, you have a more successful outlook for treatment.

Here are a few symptoms to look out for:

• Difficulty urinating

• Urgent need to urinate

• Frequent urination, especially at night

• Burning or pain when urinating

• Inability to urinate or difficulty starting or stopping urine flow

• Blood in the urine or semen

Please consult with your physician immediately if you are experiencing any of the symptoms listed above.

To reduce your risk of prostate cancer:

• Eat a healthier diet.

Cut out unhealthy fats. Eat healthy fats such as omega-3 fatty acids from nuts, seeds and fish.

Eat more fruits and vegetables. The antioxidant lycopene, which is plentiful in cooked or processed tomatoes, has been shown in some studies to slow the growth of prostate cancer cells.

Broccoli and Cauliflower contain a compound called sulforaphane that may protect against cancer.

Add green tea and soy. Clinical trials have suggested that soy may lower PSA levels, and that green tea may help men who are at high risk for prostate cancer lower their risk.

Avoid charred meat. Charred meat, from frying or grilling at high temperatures, may produce a chemical compound that leads to cancer.

• Maintain a healthy weight.

• Stop smoking and drink less alcohol beverages.

• Increase Vitamin D intake.

• Keep a regular exercise regime.