Most men have heard myths like “only old men get prostate problems” or “getting up all night is just part of aging.”
If you’ve heard these, they’re wrong—and they could be dangerous.
After 20 years treating thousands of men, I see firsthand how misinformation leads to fear, confusion, and delays in seeking help.
Today, let’s bust five of the biggest myths in prostate health.
Myth 1: A High PSA Always Means Prostate Cancer
This one creates the most panic in my clinic.
A PSA test helps us screen for prostate cancer—but many men with a raised PSA do not have cancer.
PSA can rise due to:
• Prostate enlargement
• Inflammation
• Infection
• Irritation
• Even recent ejaculation or cycling
Case in point: I saw a man whose PSA was 6.2. His GP told him the normal PSA was less than 3, so he arrived terrified, already planning his cancer treatment.
But after repeating the PSA and performing an MRI, it was not cancer.
What to do if your PSA is high
Repeat the test (never rely on one value)
Have an MRI if still elevated
Let your specialist interpret the results in context
A PSA alone is not diagnostic—it’s a guide, not a verdict.
Myth 2: Prostate Problems Are Just “Normal Aging”
Yes, prostates grow with age.
No, suffering does not have to be part of getting older.
I often meet men getting up 4–6 times a night, struggling to empty their bladder, or experiencing weak flow—yet they believe it’s “just aging.”
What’s NOT normal:
• Struggling to start
• Weak stream
• Feeling you haven’t emptied
• Getting up more than 2× per night
• Recurrent infections
• Bladder stones
• Kidney damage from back-pressure
The good news?
There are excellent treatments ranging from medication to minimally invasive options (steam therapy, UroLift, iTind) to definitive therapies like Green Light laser.
You don’t have to suffer in silence.
Myth 3: All Prostate Surgery Causes Permanent Impotence
This outdated belief stops many men from getting lifesaving treatment.
Surgery today is completely different to what it was 20–30 years ago.
Robotic keyhole surgery + nerve-sparing techniques mean many men—especially under 65 with good baseline function—recover erections within 12–18 months.
Best chances of recovery
Men who are:
• Under 65
• Not diabetic
• Not hypertensive
• Have good erections pre-surgery
• Suitable for bilateral nerve sparing
When recovery is unlikely
Men with:
• Poor baseline erections
• Diabetes
• Non–nerve-sparing cancer circumstances
Sexual function matters deeply to men, and that’s valid—but don’t let fear stop you from treating a potentially lethal cancer.
DO YOU HAVE A QUESTION?
Dr Chabert will be hosting a Q&A on TUESDAY 23RD DECEMBER 7:30pm AEST on his YouTube channel, covering everything you need to know about prostate health, treatments, surgery, recovery & more!
Become a premium subscriber - Don’t miss your chance to be heard.
Myth 4: Supplements Can Cure Prostate Cancer
The global supplement industry is worth billions—and their marketing is excellent.
But evidence? Not so much.
Even saw palmetto, the most studied supplement for urinary symptoms, performs no better than placebo in large trials.
If a supplement claims to cure cancer—
it’s false. Always.
What does work for prostate health
• Heart-healthy diet
• Minimal processed foods
• Plenty of fruits & vegetables
• Reduced processed meats
• Mindful red-meat intake
• Regular exercise (more days than not)
• Weight training to prevent muscle loss
These lifestyle habits influence overall health and prostate health far more than any pill or powder.
Myth 5: Only Men Over 65 Need to Worry About Prostate Cancer
Dangerous—and wrong.
Yes, most diagnoses occur in men in their 60s—but many men in their 50s, and even some in their 40s, are diagnosed too.
Higher risk if you have
• Family history of prostate cancer
• Family history of breast cancer
• BRCA1 / BRCA2 gene in your family
Current guideline
• Average-risk men: PSA at age 50
• Higher-risk men: Start testing in your 40s
A PSA in your 40s can even predict your lifetime risk.
If you’re unsure about your risk, talk to your doctor and make an informed decision.
Final Thought
Prostate myths keep men silent, scared, and untreated.
Knowledge keeps men healthy.