Prostate
Cancer
What is Prostate Cancer?
Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers affecting men, particularly those over 50. It originates in the prostate gland, which plays a vital role in male reproductive health. While it often grows slowly, aggressive forms of the disease can spread rapidly and become life-threatening if not detected early.
Types of Prostate Cancer
- Adenocarcinoma: The most common type, originating in the gland cells.
- Small Cell Carcinoma: A rare and aggressive form.
- Squamous Cell Carcinoma: Can also be classed as a type of neuroendocrine cancer and often more aggressive.
Symptoms of Prostate Cancer
Prostate cancer often remains asymptomatic in its early stages. Symptoms that may appear as the disease progresses include:
- Frequent, difficult starting or stopping urination.
- Weak or interrupted urine flow.
- pain in the back, hips, or pelvis
- Blood in urine or semen.
- Persistent pain in the pelvis, hips, or lower back.
Risk Factors
- Age: Most common in men over 50.
- Family History: Increased risk if close relatives have had prostate cancer.
- Ethnicity: Higher prevalence among African-American men.
- Lifestyle: Poor diet, obesity, and lack of physical activity.
Diagnosis of Prostate Cancer
- PSA Blood Test: Measures prostate-specific antigen levels in the blood.
- Digital Rectal Examination (DRE): Checks for abnormalities in the prostate.
- Imaging Tests: MRI, ultrasound, or CT scans for detailed views.
- Biopsy: Confirms the presence and type of cancer.
Treatment Options
Treatment depends on the stage and aggressiveness of the cancer:
- Active Surveillance: Monitoring for slow-growing cancers.
- Surgery: Prostatectomy to remove the prostate.
- Radiation Therapy: External or internal radiation for localized cancer.
- Hormone Therapy: Reducing androgen levels to slow cancer growth.
- Chemotherapy or Immunotherapy: For advanced or resistant cases.
Prevention and Early Detection
While we can't always prevent prostate cancer, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk.
- Maintain a healthy diet, active lifestyle and avoid smoking can make a positive impact
- Early detection through regular screenings (PSA tests and DRE) after age 50 or earlier for those with risk factors.
- Discuss any urinary symptoms with your doctor.
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy uses drugs to kill or slow the growth of cancer cells. It can be administered systemically (through the bloodstream) to target cancer cells throughout the body. Chemotherapy is used in various cancers, either as the primary treatment or in combination with other therapies, such as with surgery or radiotherapy.
