Men’s Health: Prostate Cancer
Prostate cancer is a cancerous abnormal growth which develops in the prostate gland. The abnormal growth or tumor develops gradually and lingers inside the prostate gland in an extensive duration, particularly years. In this phase, this growth manifests minimal or no clinical indications even during physical examinations. Signs and symptoms only manifest in the chronic stage of the cancer. Prostate cancers vary because there are some that quickly develops and metastasize and cuts down life expectancy in men compared to others. According to 2012 statistics of American Cancer Society, prostate cancer ranks second in the list of causes of death in men.
The source of prostate cancer is unidentified. But the predisposing factors are comprised of heredity, hormonal influence, advancing age, lifestyle and other common factors in the environment like exposure to toxins and chemicals. As men age, the potential for prostate cancer rises, that is why men with age greater than 80 are the most susceptible to developing prostate cancer. Heredity is also a predisposing factor because those with familial histories of cancer have higher potential to developing this disease compared to those who haven’t. Another is the testosterone, which is responsible for triggering the development of prostate tissue as well as prostate cancer cells; thus it is said that reduction of testosterone reduces the risk. And lastly, environmental exposure and lifestyle also play a great part in increasing cancer risk. Smoking and unhealthy eating can elevate the potential of having aggressive cancer cells. There is a misconception though, that is proven false when it comes to increasing risk on prostate cancer; which is the rate of sexual activity.
After confirmation of the existence of prostate cancer through digital rectal examination or prostate specific antigen test, immediate treatment is required. In order to successfully treat the cancer, men should have regular prostate screening, most preferably at the age of 40 and above. The key to curing the cancer and extending life is through early diagnosis and treatment. That is when men can undergo the therapies of their choice or the most suitable therapies advised to them.
The prostate cancer therapies are Radiation therapy, hormonal therapy, prostatectomy or surgical removal of the prostate, chemotherapy, intensive ultrasound therapy and brachytherapy among others. New studies have identified that intensive ultrasound therapy is the most effective; giving a cure rate of 92 percent, plus it also significantly minimizes side effects. This kind of procedure is easier and faster, and patients can go home in a few hours post-treatment. The patients who underwent this procedure can go back to their normal routine after a week or two in contrast to other procedures which take up to six months.