- Advertisement -
Prostate cancer is common among men just like breast cancer is in women.
Since it is common among older men, many young men ignore the fact that some of the complications they experience may comprise early signs of cervical cancer.
- Advertisement -
It is thus advisable to get screened early for early intervention.
Hormonal changes in men can result in enlarged prostates but this could be a danger sign too.
Other signs that you need to look out for include difficulties when passing urine and sexual dysfunction. If you note any of the above signs, seek medical attention.
PROSTATE CANCER FACTS
1. Prostate cancer is common among men
According to the National Cancer Institute, prostate cancer is the leading type of non-skin cancer.
Besides, it is the leading cause of deaths associated with cancer in men.
2. Regular and early screening is advised
If prostate cancer is detected early, chances of survival are increased.
This is because early detection impacts greatly on the patient’s journey to full recovery and treatment.
Men are thus advised to go for testing before clocking 50.
3. Prostate cancer symptoms are easily identifiable but not definitive
Some of the prostate cancer symptoms may be similar to those of other diseases like Prostatitis, it is, however, crucial to get screened in case you exhibit the following symptoms:
.Inflammation and swelling of the prostate gland
.Erectile dysfunction
.Difficulties when controlling your urine stream
.Painful ejaculations
4. Prostate cancer does not always call for surgery or treatment
The severity of the cancer is determined using a Gleason Scale.
If you have a Gleason Scale of 6 and below, then your cancer is considered to be low risk.
- Advertisement -
However, if your Gleason Scale is 7 and above, yours is a high risk of cancer.
Patients with low-risk prostate cancer will be required to go for regular PSA tests and biopsies to reduce the chances of cancer becoming aggressive.
5. Prostate cancer treatment effects
Before commencing treatment, you should have a sit down with your doctor and discuss the long term effects of prostate cancer treatment.
A study in the New England Journal of Medicine has revealed that a few men tend to experience sexual or erectile dysfunction for about 15 years following radiation treatment or prostate cancer surgery.
Some men may also develop difficulties when passing urine. Some of these long term effects may greatly alter the patient’s life.
6. Lifestyle change can help fight Prostate cancer
Various studies have established a close link between obesity and increased rates of prostate cancer.
Henceforth, men are advised to reduce the consumption of red meat, fatty dairy products and alcohol.
They can as well avoid consuming the aforementioned products completely.
On the other hand, regular exercises, vegetables, fruits and whole grains are recommended.
7. A man with a family history of Prostate cancer is at a higher risk
Many adult diseases are inherited and passed on to the next generation. Prostate cancer is no exception.
If a very close male relative, for instance, your dad, brother, grandfather or uncle had prostate cancer; the chances of contracting the disease are high.
You should, therefore, consider going for regular screening.
8. Prostate Cancer treatments differ
Since every human is unique, prostate cancer treatments also tend to vary from one patient to another.
Some may need surgery, chemotherapy, hormone treatments, radiation or immunotherapies.
#STOP CANCER
- Advertisement -