Prostate cancer has long been associated with environmental factors and dietary habits resembling those of Western countries, such as high-energy diets. It can also have a genetic component. Prostate cancer predominantly affects elderly men, and in its early stages, it often remains asymptomatic. However, patients may later experience difficulty urinating, blood in the urine, inflammation of the prostate, or an enlarged prostate gland.
Early detection of Prostate Cancer: knowledge is power!
Lack of self-awareness and irregular health checkups can lead to late-stage prostate cancer diagnosis when the disease has already spread to various parts of the body, especially the bones, causing pain. Therefore, proactive health checkups have led to the early detection of prostate cancer, making treatment more effective. Physicians can diagnose prostate cancer through:
- Digital Rectal Examination (DRE): Doctors wear gloves and use a finger to examine the size and flexibility of the prostate gland. Cancer patients may have a hard or irregular prostate.
- Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) Blood Test: This blood test measures PSA levels, which are often elevated in prostate cancer patients.
- Transrectal Ultrasound (TRUS): Physicians use an instrument to examine the prostate’s position, size, and any suspicious tissue, taking samples for biopsy if necessary.
Prostate Cancer: treatable with these methods
Monitoring and regular checkups are recommended for patients with a life expectancy of at least 10-15 years and those in the early stages of cancer that has not spread elsewhere. In such cases, physicians may monitor the prostate by checking PSA levels and performing a prostate biopsy every 1-2 years.
Prostatectomy (Surgical Removal): This procedure is suitable for patients in good overall health with an expected life span of more than 10 years and localized cancer. Possible side effects include sexual dysfunction, urinary incontinence, or difficulty urinating.
Orchiectomy or Hormone Therapy: For patients who prefer not to undergo surgery or when the cancer has spread outside the prostate.
Don’t let the silence of prostate cancer harm you. Stay vigilant and self-aware, undergo regular health checkups, especially if there is a family history of prostate cancer. Early detection leads to effective treatment. Know it early, treat it effectively.
