GET THAT CHECKUP, GUYS!

As Stephen Fry becomes the latest celeb to reveal he’s had prostate cancer, we look at this disease and how screening works

HUGH Masekela, Desmond Tutu, Nelson Mandela, Stephen Fry, Robert De Niro and Roger Moore may all be known for very different reasons but they have one thing in common: they’ve all suffered from prostate cancer.

Here’s more on this dreaded disease.

HOW PREVALENT IS IT?

It affects millions of men worldwide yet for many it’s not seen as life-threatening. But shocking new statistics show the numbers are on the rise – and men have to take serious note.

Prostate Cancer UK recently released alarming statistics that show more men are dying each year from this disease than women are from breast cancer.

“It means the male-only disease is now the third most common cancer to die from after lung and bowel cancer,” researchers reported. The ageing population and lack of investment and research are said to be at the root of the upswing in prostate cancer deaths.

The illness recently claimed the life of SA jazz legend Hugh Masekela, while former South African president Nelson Mandela fought – and beat – the cancer at the age of 83.

But the Arch is still grappling with it and has undergone various surgical procedures to deal with recurring infections related to the disease.

WHAT ARE THE STATISTICS IN SA?

The National Cancer Registry of 2013 – containing the latest available statistics – estimated that one in 18 South African men will develop prostate cancer.

The data showed 6 778 men were diagnosed with the disease in 2013 – 3 114 white men, 2 708 black men, 792 coloured men and 169 Asian men (of Indian and Chinese descent). Figures are likely to be far higher now, the registry has indicated.

About five men die of prostate cancer every day in SA, says Professor Michael Herbst, a health specialist with the Cancer Association of South Africa (Cansa).

Prostate cancer is becoming more common although doctors are still investigating why this is so, Herbst adds.

“It’s also becoming more common among younger men but we don’t know the cause.”

WHAT EXACTLY IS IT?

Prostate cancer develops as a result of a malignant tumour that begins in the prostate gland, which produces some of the fluid in semen and plays a role in urine control in men.

Some prostate cancers grow slowly and can go undetected for years.

HOW IS IT TREATED?

It depends on the patient’s age and the stage of the cancer, Cansa spokesperson Lucy Balona says.

Treatment often includes surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy and a prostatectomy, in which the prostate is removed either partially or entirely.

The side effects of a prostatectomy can include incontinence, impotence, a “shrunken penis” and “dry” orgasms, where there’s no ejaculation.

Balona says if prostate cancer is diagnosed and treated early the prognosis is often good.

But if left unchecked to spread to other parts of the body treatment becomes more complex and the prognosis becomes worse over time, Herbst warns.

‘It’s the third most common cancer to die from’

HOW FAST DOES IT SPREAD?

“There are different types of prostate cancer and some are more aggressive than others,” Herbst explains.

The most common type is acinar adenocarcinoma, in which malignant tumours develop in the gland cells that line the prostate gland.

Each individual is unique and it’s not possible to make comparisons or generalisations, Herbst says.

WHAT INCREASES THE RISK?

Age. The risk increases rapidly after the age of 50.

A diet high in red meat (more than 300g three or more times a week) and a high fat intake. The presence of BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene mutation.

BRCA genes produce tumour suppressor proteins, help to repair damaged DNA and play a role in ensuring the stability of each cell’s genetic material. When either of these genes is mutated or altered, they fail to produce proteins properly and DNA damage isn’t repaired, which can lead to cancer. Lack of exercise. A family history of prostate cancer. Obesity. Alcohol intake.

CAN IT BE AVOIDED?

A balanced lifestyle and regular screenings are essential in lowering the risk and recurrence of the disease, Balona says.

Some risk factors such as family history and age can’t be controlled. But others can be minimised by eating a balanced diet, maintaining a healthy weight, not smoking, avoiding excessive alcohol consumption and working out regularly.

WHAT DOES A CHECKUP INVOLVE?

Screening is undertaken with a blood test called the prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test to detect any prostate abnormalities and it can be done at all Cansa Care Centres countrywide, Balona says.

A digital rectum exam is also often performed and involves a medical professional inserting a gloved, lubricated finger into the rectum to feel for lumps or other abnormalities.

Cansa recommends regular screening from the age of 40, especially if there’s a family history of cancer.