Prostate cancer: Know the risks, get screened, stay healthy

Key Takeaways:

• Prostate cancer is the second most common cancer among men in the U.S.
• Early detection through regular screenings can significantly increase survival rates.
• Men over 50, and those with risk factors like a family history or African-American heritage, should discuss screening with their doctor.
• Common screening tests include the Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) blood test and Digital Rectal Exam (DRE).
• Treatment options vary based on stage but may include surgery, radiation, or active surveillance.
• September is Prostate Cancer Awareness Month.

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Understanding prostate cancer

Prostate cancer begins when cells in the prostate gland—found only in men—start to grow uncontrollably. While it is a slow-growing cancer in many cases, it can spread to other areas if not detected and treated early.

 

Who’s at risk? What causes prostate cancer?

While the exact causes of prostate cancer aren’t fully understood, certain risk factors can increase the likelihood of developing the disease. These include:

• Age: The risk of prostate cancer increases significantly in men over 50.
• Genetics: Having a close family member, such as a father or brother, with prostate cancer increases your risk.
• Race: African-American men are more likely to develop prostate cancer and often face more aggressive forms of the disease.
• Diet: A diet high in red meat and fatty foods may increase the risk.

Although we can't pinpoint all the causes, understanding the risk factors can help guide prostate cancer screening and prevention decisions.

 

Symptoms: What to look out for

Prostate cancer often shows no symptoms in its early stages. However, some signs to watch for include:

• Difficulty urinating
• Blood in urine or semen
• Pain in the hips, back, or pelvis that doesn’t go away
• Erectile dysfunction

If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to talk to your doctor right away. However, remember that these prostate cancer symptoms can also be caused by other conditions, so screening is key.

 

The importance of early screening

Regular screenings can catch prostate cancer before symptoms appear. The earlier prostate cancer is detected, the better the chances for successful treatment.

 

Types of prostate cancer screening tests

• PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) test: This blood test measures the level of PSA, a protein produced by the prostate. High levels could indicate prostate cancer or other conditions.
•  Digital rectal exam (DRE): In this physical exam, the doctor checks the prostate for lumps or abnormalities.

 

When should you get screened?

Doctors recommend starting discussions about prostate cancer screening around age 50. However, if you have certain risk factors, like family history or are of African-American descent, consider talking to your doctor around age 45.
Screening decisions should be based on an individual’s specific situation. Your doctor will help weigh the risks and benefits of screening for you personally.

 

Treatment options

If detected early, prostate cancer is highly treatable. Treatment options depend on the stage of the cancer:

• Active surveillance: For slow-growing cancer, monitoring the disease without immediate treatment.
• Surgery: Removing the prostate gland is a common treatment for early-stage prostate cancer.
• Radiation therapy: Uses high-energy rays to kill cancer cells.
• Hormone therapy: Reduces testosterone levels to slow the growth of cancer cells.

Each option comes with its own set of benefits and potential side effects, and your doctor will work with you to determine the best prostate cancer treatment based on your age, health, and cancer stage.

 

Understanding the prostate cancer stages

Prostate cancer progresses through four stages, which help determine treatment options:

• Stage I: Cancer is small and confined to the prostate. It’s typically slow-growing and has an excellent prognosis.
• Stage II: The tumor is larger or more aggressive but still contained within the prostate. Treatment may include surgery or radiation.
• Stage III: The cancer has spread outside the prostate to nearby tissues, such as the seminal vesicles. More advanced treatments like radiation and hormone therapy may be needed.
• Stage IV: The cancer has spread to distant areas, like lymph nodes, bones, or other organs. Treatment often involves hormone therapy, chemotherapy, or other systemic treatments.

Early detection is critical because it can catch cancer at a stage when it’s easier to treat successfully.

 

Living a healthy life: Prevention tips

While some risk factors like age and family history cannot be controlled, there are lifestyle choices that may lower your risk of developing prostate cancer:

• Eat a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
• Exercise regularly to maintain a healthy weight.
• Avoid smoking and limit alcohol consumption.
• Regularly visit your doctor for health check-ups.

 

Prostate cancer Survival rates

Due to advances in early detection and treatment, the 5-year survival rate for localized prostate cancer (cancer that has not spread outside the prostate) is nearly 100%.
However, when the cancer spreads to other parts of the body, the prostate cancer survival rate drops, which is why early detection is crucial.

Prostate cancer doesn’t wait, and neither should you. If you’re over 50 or have any risk factors, now is the time to talk to your doctor about prostate cancer screening. At Sanitas Medical Center, our dedicated healthcare professionals are here to help you stay healthy and informed.

Book your appointment today to discuss your screening options and take control of your health.
 
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