According to the American Cancer Society, prostate cancer affects about one in eight men. The National Cancer Institute estimates 12.8% of all men will receive a diagnosis during their lifetime. This makes it the second most prevalent form of cancer in men. However, prostate cancer is curable if caught and treated at an early stage.
Prostate Cancer
The prostate is a small gland responsible for fluid production and semen transport. It is positioned below the bladder and in front of the rectum. Prostate cancer develops when growth cells stop working and grow uncontrollably within the prostate gland.
Recognizing the Symptoms
Common prostate cancer-related conditions include:
- Frequent or urgent urination, or needing to urinate often during the night
- Difficulty starting or keeping urine flow
- Incontinence, or not being able to control when you urinate
- Weak or intermittent urine flow
- Painful or burning urination
- Hematuria, or blood in semen
- Erectile dysfunction
- Lower back, hip, or chest pain
- Unexplained weight loss
If you are experiencing any or multiple of these symptoms, it may be a sign of something more serious. Schedule an appointment with your primary care provider to discuss your symptoms and talk about your next steps.
Some People May Have a Higher Risk
All men are at risk of developing prostate cancer. However, certain factors can increase that risk level:
- Age: Those over fifty have an increased risk of developing prostate cancer.
- Race/Ethnicity: African American men are more likely to develop prostate cancer and develop it younger.
- Family History and Genetics: If prostate cancer runs in your family, you may have a higher risk of developing it.
Researchers have also linked prostate cancer to exposure to radiation or toxins, certain dietary choices, obesity, and smoking.
Over Fifty? Get Tested!
Prostate cancer is most effectively addressed before symptoms appear. So, it is important to get tested regularly. Health care providers may conduct various tests to assess the prostate's health like a:
- Digital Rectal Exam: A provider will insert a gloved finger into the rectum to look for any abnormalities.
- Prostate-Specific Antigen Blood Test: A provider will take your blood and measure the prostate-specific antigen levels. These levels may potentially indicate cancer or other conditions.
- Biopsy: A provider will use a needle to retrieve a sample to examine under a microscope.
Researchers have also linked prostate cancer to exposure to radiation or toxins, certain dietary choices, obesity, and smoking.
Prostate Cancer Can be Treated
Many treatment options exist to preserve and enhance quality of life. Regular screenings, scans, or biopsies every one to three years are important. Health care providers may also use methods such as brachytherapy, ultrasound, cryotherapy, or surgical removal to address prostate issues.
Keeping a Healthy Prostate
Keeping a healthy, properly functioning prostate involves:
- Regular exercise
- A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins
- Quitting the use of tobacco produccts
- Limiting simple sugars and processed meats
Jacan Simon, DO, provides medical care at the Health Center at Jet Wing, offering high-quality health care across all age groups. Dr. Simon advocates for personal accountability and lifestyle modifications to achieve improved health and quality of life outcomes.
For appointment scheduling or further information about Peak Vista services, please visit peakvista.org or call (719) 632-5700.
