As we observe September month as the National Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, it is important to create awareness on men’s health by enlightening, not only them but their family members as well. The month aims to create awareness on the importance of prostate health and impact of prostate cancer. Along with this the risk factors and symptoms of prostate cancer.
The prostate is a walnut-sized gland that sits below a man’s bladder. Prostate cancer affects the prostate gland and can spread to other parts of your body.
Worldwide, prostate cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer and the third leading cause of cancer death in men. In India there are almost 26 thousand new cases and 17 thousand deaths from this disease every year.
According to Dr. Abhay Kumar, Consultant Uro-Oncologist, Narayana Super Speciality Hospital, Howrah “Prostate cancer is a disease in which normal cells in a man’s prostate gland change and grow out of control, forming a tumour. Fortunately, in most cases prostate cancer is slow growing low-grade tumours with a relatively low risk. Even when prostate cancer spread to other parts of the body, it often can be managed for a long time, allowing men even with advanced prostate cancer to have good health and quality of life for many years.”
It is important to note that the early stages of prostate cancer often have no symptoms. Signs & symptoms of prostate cancer can be:
- Dull pain in the lower pelvic area
- Frequent urination
- Trouble urinating, pain, burning, or weak urine flow
- Blood in the urine (Hematuria)
- Painful ejaculation
- Pain in the lower back, hips or upper thighs
- Loss of appetite
- Loss of weight
- Bone pain
When the cancer is limited to the prostate, it is considered localized and potentially curable
If the disease has spread to the bones or elsewhere outside the prostate; pain medications, bisphosphonates, hormonal treatment, chemotherapy, radiopharmaceuticals, immunotherapy, focused radiation, and other targeted therapies can be used. Outcomes depend on age, associated health problems, stage & extent of cancer.
There are several non-modifiable factors that might affect risk of prostate cancer like Age, Family History etc. Other modifiable factors can be Diet, Obesity, Smoking, chemical exposure and Sexually transmitted infections.
Lifestyle modifications such as smoking cessation, exercise, and weight control offer opportunities to reduce the risk of developing prostate cancer
All men, regardless of their age, should be concerned about their prostate health. Although prostate cancer generally does not affect men till they are in their 40s or older, the time to help prevent prostate problems and support health is now.
So, stay aware of the risks and contact your doctor immediately if you experience any of the symptoms.
Facebook Comments