Prostate Cancer and Men

Prostate cancer is the most common type of cancer among men and the second leading cause of cancer death in men. It occurs when abnormal cells grow and multiply in the prostate gland, a small organ that produces fluid for semen and helps with urine control. 

Factors Which May Increase the Risk

The exact causes of prostate cancer are not fully understood, but some factors may increase the risk of developing it. Some of the risk factors are: 

- Age: The risk of prostate cancer increases with age, especially after 50 years old.

- Family history: Having a father, brother, or son who had prostate cancer increases the risk of having it as well.

- Race: Prostate cancer is more common and more aggressive in African American men than in other racial groups.

- Diet: Eating a lot of red meat, processed meat, dairy products, and fat may increase the risk of prostate cancer. Eating more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and fish may lower the risk.

- Obesity: Being overweight or obese can increase the risk of prostate cancer and make it harder to treat.

- Smoking: Smoking can damage the DNA of cells and increase the risk of cancer.

- Exposure to chemicals: Working with or being exposed to certain chemicals, such as pesticides, herbicides, or industrial solvents, may increase the risk of prostate cancer.

- Inflammation or infection: Having chronic inflammation or infection of the prostate, such as prostatitis or sexually transmitted infections (STIs), may increase the risk of prostate cancer. 

Prevention and Detection

The best way to prevent or detect prostate cancer early is to get regular screening tests from your doctor. These tests include:

 - Digital rectal exam (DRE): The doctor inserts a finger into the rectum to feel the prostate for any lumps or abnormalities.

- Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test: The doctor measures the level of PSA, a protein produced by the prostate, in the blood. A high PSA level may indicate prostate cancer or other conditions.

- Ultrasound: The doctor uses sound waves to create an image of the prostate and check for any changes in its size or shape.

- Biopsy: The doctor takes a small sample of tissue from the prostate and examines it under a microscope for signs of cancer. 

Types of Conventional Treatments

If you are diagnosed with prostate cancer, your doctor will discuss with you the best treatment options for your case. Some of the treatment options are: 

- Watchful waiting or active surveillance: This means monitoring the cancer closely without any treatment until it shows signs of growth or spread. This may be suitable for older men or men with low-risk or slow-growing cancers who have no symptoms.

- Surgery: This means removing part or all of the prostate gland, depending on the stage and location of the cancer. This may be done through an incision in the abdomen or through the urethra. Surgery may cause side effects such as urinary incontinence, erectile dysfunction, or infection.

- Radiation therapy: This means using high-energy rays to kill cancer cells or shrink tumors in the prostate. This may be done externally by a machine that directs beams at the prostate, or internally by placing radioactive seeds inside the prostate. Radiation therapy may cause side effects such as urinary problems, bowel problems, erectile dysfunction, or fatigue.

- Hormone therapy: This means using drugs to lower the level of testosterone, a male hormone that stimulates prostate growth and cancer. This may be done by injections, pills, implants, or surgery to remove the testicles. Hormone therapy may cause side effects such as hot flashes, loss of libido, breast enlargement, osteoporosis, or mood changes.

- Chemotherapy: This means using drugs to kill cancer cells or stop them from spreading to other parts of the body. This may be done by injection or infusion into a vein, or by pills. Chemotherapy may cause side effects such as nausea, vomiting, hair loss, mouth sores, infection, or fatigue. 

Living with prostate cancer can be challenging and stressful. You may experience physical and emotional changes that affect your quality of life and your relationships. You are not alone in this journey, and there are many resources and support groups available to help you cope with any difficulties you may face. Remember to talk to your doctor and your loved ones about your feelings and concerns. They can provide you with information, advice, and comfort. You can also seek professional help from counselors, therapists, or social workers if you need more support.

Disclaimer: Any information on diseases and treatments available via this blog is intended for general guidance only and must never be considered a substitute for the advice provided by your doctor or other qualified healthcare professionals.