Everything You should Know About Prostate Cancer
Cancer diagnosis can be dreadful as there is a lot of fear associated with it. Prostate cancer is a common malignancy seen amongst men. The prostate is a small gland found in a man’s lower abdomen. When an abnormal, malignant growth of cells that is called a tumor form in the prostate, it is called prostate cancer. People diagnosed with prostate cancer often show no symptom hence screening is very critical. Majority of men are unaware of this type of cancer, and they tend to delay treatment which leads to serious consequences in later life. It is generally seen in men above the age of 50.
The possibility of developing prostate cancer doubles if a parent or sibling had prostate cancer which clearly indicates genetic factors play a role. Genes like BRCA1 (breast cancer type 1) and BRCA2 (breast cancer type 2) have been linked to prostate cancer. As their names suggest, they are commonly noticed in mutated forms in some women with breast cancer. However, studies have shown that men carrying mutations in BRCA2 have an increased risk of developing prostate cancer, and mutations in either gene significantly reduces survival.
The warning signs of prostate cancer include:
· Frequent urination
· Interrupted urine flow
· Blood in the urine
· Blood in the seminal fluid
· New onset of erectile dysfunction
· Pain or burning sensation during urination
· Discomfort or pain when sitting
Most prostate cancers are malignant tumors. Hardly, other types of cancer develop in the prostate like small cell carcinomas, transitional cell carcinomas, neuroendocrine tumors and sarcomas.
Prevention
Generally, men develop prostate cancer as they get older. Prevention isn’t possible but taking these steps may help minimize risk and to detect disease early:
· Get regular prostate screenings
· Maintain a healthy weight
· Exercise regularly
· Eat a nutritious diet
· Quit smoking
Treatment
Prostate cancers usually develop very slow and might not display symptoms for some time. The treatment depends on the aggressiveness and progression of the cancer. If the prostate is enlarged, primary diagnosis can be made by rectal examination or transrectal ultrasound. A blood test for prostate-specific antigen (PSA) is used to detect prostate tumours in their earliest stages among high-risk individuals. A biopsy is done to confirm the diagnosis if any of these tests indicate cancer. One may have to undergo surgery or radiotherapy in the early stages and combination treatments like hormone therapy, radiation therapy, immunotherapy is suggested in advanced stages. The removal of the entire prostate and few surrounding tissues can be considered if examination of the pelvic lymph nodes confirm that they are not cancerous. Staying vigilant will help one get the best results possible.
If prostate cancer is diagnosed at an early stage and hasn’t spread from the original tumor, the treatment outcome is usually good. Early detection and treatment are key to a better outcome. If you have any of the symptoms of prostate cancer, schedule an appointment for consultation with your doctor immediately.
