Cursory statistics show that Prostate cancer is the second most common cancer in men.
But why is it so common? And
when should you be concerned?
This article is compiled to inform you of everything about prostate cancer, and how to reduce your risk of developing it.
First, the prostate is a small gland in the male reproductive system, just about the size of a walnut.
It produces a fluid that nourishes and protects the sperm.
The fluid mixes with sperm to form semen, which is vital for fertility.
Prostate cancer occurs when the cells in the prostate gland begin to grow uncontrollably.
They may form tumors that can stay in the prostate or spread to other areas like the bones, lymph nodes and lungs.
There’re 2 main types:
- Slow growing prostate cancer
- Aggressive prostate cancer
Slow growing cancers may not cause symptoms for years, and requires little or no treatment.
Aggressive prostate cancer grows very fast, spreads quickly, and requires immediate attention.
Who Is At Risk.?
Certain factors increase your risk of developing prostate cancer. They include:
Age: The older a man gets, the more likely he is to develop prostate cancer. It rises significantly after 50, and most cases are diagnosed after 65.
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Family history: Your risk of developing it increases, if your father, brother or close relative had it.
Race: African men have a higher risk of developing aggressive forms of prostate cancer.
Lifestyle factors: An unhealthy diet, sedentary lifestyle and bad vices over time increases your risk of developing prostate cancer.
Genetic mutations: Mutations in BRCA 1&2 genes increase your risk.
BRCA genes are tumor suppressor genes and mutations or changes predispose you to cancer.
When Should You Be Concerned?
Prostate cancer develops silently, especially in its early stages. However, as it progresses, symptoms include:
Difficulty starting or stopping urination,
Weak or interrupted urine stream,
Frequent urination, especially at night
Blood in urine or semen.
Other symptoms include Pain or stiffness in the lower back, hips, or pelvis.
How Is It Diagnosed?
Diagnosis is usually a combination of:
PSA (Prostate-specific antigen) blood test: Elevated PSA levels may indicate prostate cancer, or benign prostatic hyperplasia.
Digital rectal examination: A doctor checks the prostate for lumps or abnormalities.
Biopsy: If cancer is suspected, a small tissue sample is taken from the prostate and examined for confirmation.
MRIs or CT scans can be used to check if cancer has spread to other areas.
Can It Be Treated?
Treatment depends on the stage of cancer, and how aggressive it is.
For slow growing cancers, active surveillance or watchful waiting is recommended.
For Localized cancer (cancer in the prostate), surgery to remove the prostate gland is performed.
Radiation therapy can be used as standalone therapy or together with other therapies to kill off cancer cells.
If cancer has spread to other parts of the body, systemic therapies like hormonal, chemotherapy and immunotherapy is used.
All the treatment therapies come with side effects, and so the decision must be made together with a health professional.
Can Prostate Cancer Be Prevented?
There’s no exact way of preventing cancer, however the risk can be reduced.
Optimize your diet: Prioritize fruits, vegetables, whole grains and healthy fats.
Limit intake of processed foods and red meat.
Exercise regularly: Physical activity supports overall health and weight management.
Screening: All men over 50 should discuss prostate screening with their doctors. Men at higher risk should start earlier.
Reduce alcohol intake and quit smoking entirely.
