The Fighter Pilot Who Got Prostate Cancer at 42

In this episode, we sit down with Commander Craig Reiner, a retired Navy fighter pilot and prostate cancer survivor, to explore the intersection between military service and men's health. We open with Craig's journey through the Naval Academy and his decorated career as a combat pilot, including the high-risk, high-adrenaline experiences of landing an F/A-18 on an aircraft carrier at night. But it’s another risk—one far less visible—that ultimately changed his life: a prostate cancer diagnosis at age 42.

We talk through how routine military screening, starting at age 40, likely saved Craig’s life. Even with no family history and no symptoms, his PSA levels were still closely monitored. When his PSA unexpectedly tripled, his flight surgeon referred him to a urologist. Despite being well below standard thresholds, Craig pushed for a biopsy. It came back positive, and he immediately opted for a full prostatectomy. His cancer was caught early, fully contained, and successfully removed. He’s now been disease-free since 2011.

Craig reflects on the challenge of facing cancer at a young age, especially as a single father of two, including a son with special needs. He shares how the discipline and mental toughness from his military career helped him power through the diagnosis and treatment. He expresses zero regret about undergoing surgery, emphasizing the peace of mind it gave him.

We also discuss broader issues—like how military aviators may be at increased risk for certain cancers. Craig believes exposure to radar, UV radiation, and extreme physical stressors likely played a role. He references emerging studies linking fighter pilots to higher rates of not just prostate cancer, but also brain injuries and melanoma. We agree that current prostate cancer screening guidelines fail to recognize these unique risk factors, often excluding high-risk men due to age or occupational exposure.

Throughout, Craig shares how he has made men’s health advocacy a part of his everyday life. He regularly engages friends, fellow veterans, and even strangers in conversations about PSA testing and prostate cancer. He pushes back against the male reluctance to seek help—what we call the “cockpit mentality”—and urges men to take control of their health the way they take care of their cars.

We close by discussing Craig’s current lifestyle: staying active, flying recreational planes, and still chasing the thrill—safely. His story is one of discipline, awareness, survivorship, and purpose. And his message is clear: early detection saves lives, and the guidelines need to catch up.

Michigan Men’s Health Foundation — https://www.michiganmenshealthfoundation.org

National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) — https://www.nccn.org

U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) — https://www.uspreventiveservicestaskforce.org