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Prostate cancer develops when abnormal, malignant cells begin to grow uncontrollably in the prostate gland, a tiny, walnut-shaped gland present below the bladder in males. Sperm are nourished and transported by the seminal fluid produced by the prostate. This fluid significantly contributes to the reproductive health of men. Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers diagnosed in men, especially those who are above 50 years. In this blog, a top urologist in Mysuru shares some basic facts about prostate cancer, including its causes, symptoms, risk factors, and how to reduce the risk of getting this condition.
Synopsis
Understanding Prostate Cancer
Unchecked cell growth in the prostate gland can lead to prostate cancer. The cancers are actually of different types, and the most common one is adenocarcinoma, which can involve gland cells generating the seminal fluid part of semen. In most cases, men can live for years without severe symptoms. However, other forms are more aggressive, necessitating early detection.
Risk Factors for Prostate Cancer
The following are varieties of risk factors that may be predisposed to enhance the chances of developing prostate cancer:
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Age: The risk for prostate cancer increases significantly at the age of 50 years and older. Most of the diagnoses occurred in men aged 65 and older years.
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Family History: Men with a blood relative-first degree, such as father, brother, or son, and other close relatives may be at risk for prostate cancer.
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Ethnicity: Research studies show that prostate cancer is more common among Black men than others, and the disease might assume aggressive forms.
Although having one or more of these risk factors does not mean that any man will develop prostate cancer, it's essential to know of them, especially with increased age.
What Are the Symptoms of Prostate Cancer?
Most prostate cancers have no identifiable symptoms in their early phase. This is why screening is a great help, as it might detect the cancer even when there are no symptoms. But with the progression of the cancer, some symptoms may start manifesting, including the following:
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Trouble in Urinating
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Blood in Urine or Semen
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Trouble in Erection
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Pain in Hips, Lower Back, or Chest
If any of these symptoms emerge, it would be preferable to see an expert urologist for a precise diagnosis, as they might be present in other illnesses that are not malignant.
Prevention and Lifestyle
While most cases of prostate cancer may not be prevented, some lifestyle choices and other preventive measures can help a man lower his risk.
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Diet - A diet high in fruits and vegetables and low in processed and red meat is advantageous. Antioxidant-rich foods, such as berries, broccoli, and tomatoes, can support prostate health. It's also a good idea to restrict the saturated fats in dairy and red meat.
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Exercise - Regular exercise has been known to boost general health and maintain a fit, healthy weight, which may reduce the probability of prostate cancer occurrence. Exercise has also been proven to improve immune functioning, reduce inflammation, and regulate hormones, all things that prevent or avoid cancer.
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Screening - Prostate cancer can easily be diagnosed before it develops and becomes severe, especially if there is regular screening by carrying out PSA tests and digital rectal exams (DRE).
In cases where one may not have any problems with the presence of cancer, there may be a high level of PSA; on the other hand, in cases where the PSA level increases significantly, then possibly there might be problems within the prostate that require further testing.
Diagnosis of Prostate Cancer
If the symptoms prompt an expert urologist to suspect prostate cancer or tests reveal some presence of prostate cancer, several diagnostic tests would be conducted for a final diagnosis:
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Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) Test: A blood test that indicates elevated levels of PSA, which can be a sign of prostate cancer or some other prostate-related disorder.
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Digital Rectal Exam (DRE): The doctor physically examines the prostate for abnormalities during this procedure.
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Imaging Tests: MRI or ultrasound may be taken to get a detailed view of the prostate.
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Biopsy: If the preliminary tests show cancerous cells, a biopsy is then performed with small samples of prostate tissue extracted for examination of cancerous existence.
Treatment Options for Prostate Cancer
Prostate cancer treatment options vary depending on various factors, including the tumour stage, the patient’s age, and overall health. Here are some common treatment approaches:
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Active Surveillance: For slow-growing prostate cancer, especially in older men, doctors may recommend active surveillance, where the condition is closely monitored but not treated unless it progresses.
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Surgery: A prostatectomy, or removal of the prostate gland, may be recommended, mainly if the cancer is localised.
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Radiation Therapy: This therapy uses high-energy radiation to kill cancer cells. It can be external (outside the body) or internal (using radioactive seeds placed in or near the prostate).
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Hormone Therapy: Since prostate cancer cells often rely on male hormones (androgens) to grow, hormone therapy aims to reduce androgen levels in the body.
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Chemotherapy: In advanced stages of prostate cancer, chemotherapy may be used to kill cancer cells or slow their growth.
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Targeted Therapy is a newer type of treatment that specifically targets cancer cells. It has fewer than traditional chemotherapy.
When to Seek Medical Attention
Suppose you experience any symptoms related to prostate health, such as difficulty urinating, pain in the lower back or pelvic area, or changes in urinary patterns. In that case, it’s essential to consult a urology specialist. Early diagnosis allows for a broader range of treatment options and improves outcomes.
Conclusion
Prostate cancer is a prevalent health issue for men, especially as they age. Consult Manipal Hospitals Mysore to understand the risk factors, recognise symptoms, and get regular screenings are critical steps in managing prostate health. While the diagnosis of prostate cancer can be concerning, advancements in detection and treatment provide men with more options than ever before. By adopting a healthy lifestyle, staying informed, and maintaining regular screenings, men can take proactive steps to protect their prostate health and, ultimately, their overall well-being.
FAQ's
While prevention is not always possible, confident lifestyle choices, such as a healthy diet, regular exercise, and smoking cessation, may reduce the risk.
Treatment options vary and may include active surveillance, surgery, radiation therapy, hormone therapy, chemotherapy, and targeted therapy. The appropriate treatment depends on the cancer stage, patient's age, and overall health.
When detected early, prostate cancer has a high rate of successful treatment, mainly if it has not spread beyond the prostate gland. Advanced cases may still be manageable but more challenging to treat thoroughly.
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