Know the facts, get tested

IT IS the most common cancer in men, but while thousands die with the disease every year, prostate cancer remains an uncomfortable and avoided subject for many others. Like other illnesses, prevention of the dreaded disease is better than cure, and where the risks are overbearing, early detection is key. This September, as we observe Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, let us know the facts:

WHAT IS PROSTATE CANCER?

Prostate cancer occurs in the prostate – a small walnut-shaped gland in men that produces the seminal fluid that nourishes and transports sperm. The cancer usually grows slowly and is initially confined to the prostate gland, where it may not cause serious harm although other types of the cancer are aggressive and spread quickly.

SYMPTOMS:

Prostate cancer can cause signs and symptoms such as:

I Trouble urinating

I Decreased force in the stream of urine

I Blood in semen

I Discomfort in the pelvic area

I Bone pain

I Erectile dysfunction

RISK FACTORS:

Age. (Prostate cancer is more common in older men, over 50). Race. (Black men carry a greater risk of prostate cancer than do men of other races).

I Family history.

I Obesity.

GETTING TESTED

To check for prostate cancer, you may undergo the following:

Digital rectal exam (DRE). During a DRE, your doctor inserts a gloved, lubricated finger into your rectum to examine your prostate, which is adjacent to the rectum. If your doctor finds any abnormalities in the texture, shape or size of the gland, you may need further tests.

Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test. A blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm and analysed for PSA, a substance that’s naturally produced by your prostate gland.

It’s normal for a small amount of PSA to be in your bloodstream.

However, if a higher than normal level is found, it may indicate prostate infection, inflammation, enlargement or cancer.

Source: www.mayoclinic.org