Prostate Cancer Awareness

Prostate Cancer

Cancer organizations around the world have recognized September as Prostate Cancer Awareness Month to raise awareness about prostate cancer. Prostate cancer is one of the most common types of cancer in men and the second leading cause of cancer death in men after lung cancer. According to data, 1 in 9 men are likely to develop prostate cancer in their lifetime.

What is prostate cancer?

Prostate cancer occurs when cells in the body begin to grow out of control. Many factors are responsible for this increase. eg DNA mutation, genetic disorder or lifestyle factors. These growths can occur in any part of our body and even spread to other parts of the body. Prostate cancer occurs when cells in the prostate gland begin to grow abnormally. The prostate gland is a small walnut-shaped gland. It produces seminal fluid, which nourishes and transports sperm. The prostate gland is located below the scrotum and in front of the anus.

Generally, prostate cancer grows slowly and does not cause serious problems. But it can travel through the blood or lymph nodes to other parts of the body, such as bones, and grow in them, causing serious damage. However, some types of prostate cancer grow very slowly and require only minimal treatment. Some others can be aggressive and spread quickly. As with any other cancer, the key to successful treatment of prostate cancer is early detection.

Symptoms of prostate cancer

Symptoms of prostate cancer are not visible in the early stages. It is important to note that many of the symptoms of prostate cancer and an enlarged prostate gland can be similar. Therefore, it is recommended to consult a doctor if any of the following symptoms are present – ​​blood in urine or semen. Frequent urge to urinate and pain during urination. Dull pain in lower class region. Erectile dysfunction. Bone or lower back pain. Unexplained weight loss and loss of appetite.

Causes of prostate cancer

The exact cause of prostate cancer is still unknown. Research is being conducted extensively, but it has failed to come up with any conclusive evidence. But there are several risk factors associated with prostate cancer.

Risk factors-

Age: The risk of prostate cancer increases with your age.

Race: African-Americans have a higher risk of prostate cancer. However, its cause has not yet been scientifically proven. They are one and a half times more likely to develop prostate cancer than the general population and twice as likely to die from it.

Family history: You are 2 to 3 times more likely to develop prostate cancer if a family member has it.

Genes: If you have a family history of genes such as BRCA1 or BRCA2, which increase the chance of cancer, or if you have a strong family history of breast cancer, your risk of developing prostate cancer is higher.

Obesity: Obesity is a cause of prostate cancer.

Prostate cancer prevention

There is no specific way to prevent prostate cancer. Some risk factors such as race, genetic mutation are beyond our control. But some factors can reduce the risk of developing prostate cancer. If you are diagnosed with cancer, following these points will also benefit you-

1. Choose a healthy diet full of fruits and vegetables.

2. Choosing healthy foods over supplements.

3. and maintain a healthy weight

4. Exercise regularly.

Men at high risk of prostate cancer can take 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors after consulting their doctor.

Prostate cancer treatment

Treatment for prostate cancer can be a complicated process. Because some cancers grow very slowly. These types of cancers may not require treatment, while some may grow rapidly and become life-threatening. Treatment will depend on factors such as the stage and grade of your cancer, risk category, age, health and your personal preferences for treatment. It is always advisable to get a second opinion before you start treatment. There are many treatment options available and therefore consideration of the immediate and long-term side effects of the procedure should be a priority.

The need for prostate cancer awareness

Prostate cancer is mostly curable with early diagnosis. But this report is not to take prostate cancer lightly. Because if cancer is ignored it can metastasize and spread to different parts of the body. This situation can be dangerous. It is very important to recognize the symptoms early and get a proper diagnosis before it is too late About 88 men die each day in the United States from prostate cancer. These numbers highlight the need for public awareness about the disease