Prostate cancer rate rising in Middle East

DUBAI: Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers diagnosed in men globally and rates are increasing in the Middle East. It is usually diagnosed in men over 50 years and can be cured if detected early before abnormal cells in the prostate gland spread to other parts of the body.

The exact cause of prostate cancer is not clear but some of the factors that might increase the risk of prostate cancer include age, with most of the cases occurring in men older than 65. In addition, having a brother, father, or immediate relative with prostate cancer increases the likelihood of developing the disease.

According to Dr Deborah Mukherji, Consultant Medical Oncologist, Clemenceau Medical Center Dubai, prostate cancer can be linked to genetic mutations (passed from parent to child) that cause cells to become abnormal. Mutations in genes called BRCA1 and BRCA2 (which increase the risk of breast cancer) are linked to prostate cancer as well.

Having a diet that is high in red meat and includes high fat dairy products but is low in fruits and vegetables is linked to a higher chance of developing prostate cancer. Men who smoke might have a higher risk of dying from prostate cancer, but this link needs to be further studied. Obese men are also more likely to have an advanced prostate cancer that is more difficult to treat.

Recommendations to prevent prostate cancer include maintaining a healthy weight, staying active to support prostate health, eating more colorful vegetables and fruits, decreasing red meat and animal fats in the diet, eating more fish, avoiding smoking and alcohol and seeking medical treatment to control diabetes, high blood pressure and high cholesterol.

There can be many causes of prostate enlargement including benign (non-cancer) growth of the prostate gland that should be checked and treated but common symptoms of prostate cancer include difficulty urinating, weak or interrupted flow of urine, inability to empty the bladder completely, sudden or frequent need to urinate especially at night, blood in the urine or semen or pain in the back, hips or pelvis.