Understanding Prostate Cancer: What is Prostate Cancer and How to Prevent It?
Caption: What is prostate cancer? Photo from Elements Envato hereMany men deal with multiple health issues throughout their lives as they age. Prostate cancer is one of the leading health factors that identify as a threat to men. 1 in 8 men are likely to be diagnosed with prostate cancer worldwide. Furthermore, prostate cancerranks as the third most prevalent type of cancer in Malaysia, affecting 1 in every 117 men over their lifetime
The progression of prostate cancer can be slow, resulting in many men being active carriers without experiencing any symptoms. It’s important to note that in some cases, prostate cancer spreads rapidly and turns aggressive.
Men can improve their cancer awareness by regularly checking for abnormalities, staying informed, and engaging in open discussions about their health concerns. By understanding male health and staying informed, men have the chance to reduce their chances of prostate cancer and live healthier lives.
As a result of low awareness in Malaysia, prostate cancer is one of the most alarming diseases affecting Malaysian men.
Understanding prostate cancer
What is prostate cancer?
Prostate cancer develops in the prostate, a small gland part of the male reproductive system. This gland is located below the bladder and in front of the rectum. The disease begins when cells within the prostate grow abnormally. These cells can form a tumour and may spread to other parts of the body, affecting a man's health and well-being. The prostate's primary function is to produce fluid that nourishes and transports sperm.
Risk factors
Several factors can increase a man’s risk of developing prostate cancer. Although none of them are a direct cause, they influence the chance of being diagnosed with cancer.
- Age: The risk increases with age, particularly after 50.
- Family history and genetics: A family history of cancer can elevate the risk.
- Lifestyle factors: Diet, lifestyle, and exposure to certain chemicals can also influence the likelihood of developing prostate cancer.
Symptoms
Symptoms vary but can include the following:
- Difficulty urinating
- Blood in urine or semen
- Pain in the genital area
- Weight loss
- Erectile dysfunction
Importance of screening
Screening for prostate cancer is crucial because it can detect the disease early, often before symptoms arise, increasing the chances of effective treatment and recovery. Early detection through screening methods includes:
- Digital rectal examination is done to check the prostate for abnormalities.
- You can do a blood test to detect Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) cancer markers.
If the doctor finds any abnormalities, they will conduct further tests like a transrectal ultrasound, and a prostate biopsy may be performed to confirm the presence of active cancer cells.
Stages of prostate cancer
There are three stages of prostate cancer.
Stage 1: Early stage
Regular check-ups for PSA level will be administered. PSA levels are often checked regularly to monitor the cancer and how the patient responds to the treatment.
Stage 2: Early stage
A biopsy sample will be taken and prepared with chemicals to check the severity of the cancer. Most likely, the tumor has not spread beyond the prostate.
Stage 3: Locally advanced
The cancer escalated to the outer area of the prostate, affecting only the nearest tissues. Therefore, a precise examination will be done to assess the distribution of the cancer cells to the pelvic area.
Stage 4: Advance
The cancer has spread outside the prostate, directly affecting other body parts.
Caption: Doctor’s appointment for prostate cancer. Photo from Freepik herePrevention strategies
There is no direct method for prostate cancer prevention. However, you could adopt some healthy habits to minimise the risks of being directly exposed.
Maintaining a healthy weight
Being overweight or obese is linked to several health issues, including an increased risk of prostate cancer. Regular exercise and keeping fit are essential for maintaining a healthy weight and improving overall health.
Regular checkups and screening
Regular visits to your doctor for checkups and screening are crucial for early detection of prostate cancer, which can significantly improve treatment outcomes.
Eating a healthy diet
A diet rich in fats, typical of certain Malaysian foods like keropok lekor, roti canai, and curry puffs, can elevate the risk of health problems, including prostate cancer. Emphasising fruits and vegetables in your diet can enhance your health and reduce the risk of diseases.
Prostate cancer treatment options
Treatment options will vary depending on the severity of the cancer, possible side effects, and the patient themselves.
Men are encouraged to learn more about the goals of each treatment plan, what they can expect while receiving the treatment, and the possible side effects of treatment. The common types of treatments used for prostate cancer may include the following:
- Surgery: Removing the prostate gland or cancerous tissue.
- Radiation therapy: Using high-energy rays to target and kill cancer cells.
- Targeted therapy: Drugs or other substances that specifically attack cancer cells with minimal harm to normal cells.
- Chemotherapy: Using drugs to kill rapidly growing cancer cells throughout the body.
- Hormone therapy: Blocking the body's natural hormones that fuel the growth of cancer cells.
- Immunotherapy: Boosting the body's immune system to fight the cancer.
- Cryotherapy: Freezing and destroying cancerous tissue.
When it comes to prostate cancer treatment, each patient's circumstances, medical history, and health condition are unique, and therefore, their treatment should reflect these individual factors. By tailoring the treatment to these factors, healthcare professionals can provide the most effective and suitable care for male cancer patients.
Myths and misconceptions about prostate cancer
There are many common myths or misconceptions about prostate cancer.
- Prostate cancer only affects older man. While age is a significant risk factor, and the majority of cases occur in men over 65, prostate cancer can affect younger men as well.
- If you have no symptoms, you don't have prostate cancer. Prostate cancer can show no symptoms, especially in its early years.
- Prostate cancer is always slow-growing and not serious. While many prostate cancers grow slowly, some are aggressive and can spread quickly. The seriousness and treatment strategy depend on the cancer's grade, stage, and individual health factors.
- Prostate cancer treatment always causes impotence or incontinence. Not all treatments lead to impotence (erectile dysfunction) or incontinence. The risk of these side effects varies. Treatment methods have also improved the ability to preserve urinary and sexual function.
- High PSA levels always indicate prostate cancer. Elevated PSA levels can be caused by various factors, not just prostate cancer. These include prostate enlargement (benign prostatic hyperlasia), inflammation, infection, age, and race.
Ways to protect yourself
Prostate cancer is a complex disease that requires a thorough understanding of its anatomy, development, treatment options, and lifestyle modifications. By staying informed and proactive about prostate health, men can take the necessary steps and familiarise themselves with various ways to reduce prostate cancer risk and maintain overall well-being.
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