Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men. It begins in the prostate and occurs when abnormal cells in the body grow out of control. September is the national month to increase awareness of prostate cancer among all Americans. It’s even important for females to be familiar with the risk factors, signs, and symptoms of prostate cancer because all women have men in their lives such as fathers, brothers, sons, and friends. The more we understand about prostate cancer, the more able we are to prevent it or catch it early.
The prostate is part of the male reproductive system and is located below the bladder and in front of the rectum, and is typically the size of a walnut. The prostate produces fluid that makes up part of semen.
Risk Factors
The following risk factors may increase the likelihood of getting prostate cancer:
· Age – older men are at greater risk
· Race – some racial and ethnic groups have a higher risk of getting prostate cancer
· Family history – someone with a father, brother, or son who has had prostate cancer is 2-3 times more likely to have prostate cancer.
How to reduce your risk
Risk for cancers, in general, is also affected by daily lifestyle behaviors such as smoking, eating an unhealthy diet, lacking physical activity or exercise, as well as being overweight. Therefore, living a healthy lifestyle by eating well, being active, maintaining a normal weight, and not smoking may help to reduce the risk for some cancers, including prostate cancer.
Screening is available to detect prostate cancer in its earliest stages before it causes symptoms. Screening guidelines and recommendations for prostate cancer were recently updated to suggest that men participate in “informed and shared decision making” with their family doctors. This means having a conversation with your doctor about the risk of prostate cancer, personal risk factors (such as age, race, and family history), what screening options are available, and the risks/benefits of screening. This also includes making a joint decision with your doctor about whether or not to be screened for prostate cancer.
Screening options
There are two commonly used tests to screen for prostate cancer:
· Digital rectal exam (DRE) – A doctor will examine the size of the prostate, as well as feel for any lumps or other abnormalities.
· Prostate specific antigen test (PSA) – A blood test to measure the level of PSA in the blood, which may be higher with prostate cancer. Other conditions that affect the prostate can also increase PSA. These other conditions include: certain medical procedures, certain medications, an enlarged prostate, recent sexual activity, or an infection in the prostate.
Symptoms
Not all men with prostate cancer experience symptoms and the symptoms may differ. Common symptoms include:
· Blood in the urine or semen
· Difficulty starting urination
· Weak or interrupted flow of urine
· Difficulty emptying the bladder completely
· Frequent urination, especially at night
· Pain or burning during urination
· Pain in the back, hips, or pelvis that doesn’t go away
· Painful ejaculation
If you experience any of these symptoms, contact your doctor right away. These symptoms can also be caused by other conditions, but talking with your doctor is important to determine the cause.
Treatment
Several treatment options are available to men diagnosed with prostate cancer. Some doctors and patients decide to watch the prostate over time to see if it is growing or causing symptoms before removing or treating it. Others choose surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, or hormone therapy. To learn more, visit treatment options.
During the month of September and beyond, think about the risk factors for yourself or your loved ones. All men should have a discussion with your doctor about whether to screen for prostate cancer. Encourage your male friends and family members to do the same and to take the next step in preventing prostate cancer.
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