Check on the men you love
For Families
The people closest to a man often make the difference in whether he takes action. Here is how to encourage him with warmth, respect, and zero shame.
You have more influence than you think
Why your encouragement matters
Many men delay health checks — not because they do not care, but because they are busy, uneasy, or simply have not been prompted. A caring nudge from someone they trust is often the thing that finally gets them to pick up the phone.
You do not need medical expertise. You just need to open the door, keep it open, and make it easy for him to walk through.
Family history is shared history
Prostate cancer risk can run in families. If a father, brother, or son has been diagnosed, the other men in the family may be at higher risk — and may need to start screening conversations earlier. Sharing family health history is one of the most useful things a family can do together.
A history of breast or ovarian cancer in the family (linked to BRCA gene changes) can also raise prostate cancer risk. It is worth mentioning to the doctor.
Encourage without shame
How to bring it up the right way
Tone matters as much as the message. The goal is to make him feel supported, not cornered.
Do this
- Lead with care: “I love you and I want you around for a long time.”
- Keep it light and normal — make it a routine health topic, not a crisis.
- Offer to help book the appointment or go along for support.
- Share your own check-ups so it feels mutual, not one-sided.
- Give it time; plant the seed and revisit gently if needed.
Gently avoid
- Do not use fear, guilt, or nagging — it usually backfires.
- Do not tease or make him feel embarrassed about the exam.
- Do not diagnose or assume the worst out loud.
- Do not make it a one-time argument; make it an open door.
Not sure what to say?
Conversation starters that work
Borrow these, adapt them to your voice, and start the conversation today.
For a partner or spouse
“I read that men should start talking to their doctor about prostate screening around 50 — sooner if it runs in the family. Can we look into it together?”
For an adult child to a parent
“Dad, I want you healthy for the grandkids. Would you ask your doctor about a prostate check at your next visit?”
For a sibling or friend
“I just did a quick prostate risk check online — took five minutes. Thought of you. Want me to send you the link?”
Check on the men you love
A five-minute conversation could add years to a life. Whether it is your husband, father, brother, or friend — reaching out is an act of love. You do not have to have all the answers. You just have to care enough to ask.
This is education, not diagnosis. ProstateWise does not detect, confirm, or rule out prostate cancer. Use this information to prepare for a conversation with a licensed clinician about your personal risk and screening options.
Send him the risk check
Share the interactive risk check with the man you care about. It is quick, private, and a gentle first step toward a doctor conversation.