The deadly cancer has taken a toll over the world with enormous deaths every year. Cancer is spreading like flu and many have fallen prey to this. It is equally saddening for the loved ones as it is for the patient. This article will provide the significant information on prostate cancer and its symptoms.
A recent study published in the Atlanta Journal reveals that after the age of 60 years, 1 in every 6 men suffers from prostate cancer. While, in Mumbai, a survey carried out by the National Centre for Biotechnology Information and Tata Memorial Hospital backed the figures. A study on 1000 patients was carried out successfully and the results showed that the prevalence of men suffering from this type of cancer is similar among all the age groups.
Though men above 60 are more susceptible to this, however those below 60 and above 60 both have equal chances of survival. It is now considered as the 4th common type of cancer prior which it was at 9th position. Also, it is the 2nd common type of cancer among men after skin cancer.
Prostate is a walnut-shaped gland situated between the bladder and rectum in the males. Its function is to secrete a milky fluid that comprises of semen (30%) besides other fluids. It is thus, an endocrine gland. There are two types of tumors associated with the gland. After a certain age, usually after 60, the prostate gland of the men starts to grow in this size. This condition is referred to as the prostatic hyperplasia. This is, however, benign and does not cause cancer.
In the early stages, the tumor does not cause any visible effect on the body. Many tumors grow away from the urethra and thus the effects depend mainly on the effect it has on the urethra. Small tumors generally do not put much pressure on the urethra and so any visible effects are seldom seen. Both non-cancerous and cancerous show same symptoms of growth in the prostate which are-
- Frequent need to urinate which is sometimes accompanied by pain.
- Frequency increases at the night to urinate
- A feel of incomplete urination in the bladder
- Employing methods like starting and stopping and straining to urinate
Non-cancerous symptoms usually are- very rare pain and blood in semen or urine.
The cancer of the prostate gland grows gradually over a time. Especially in older men, this condition may get worse during the years if not treated properly. The cancerous cells may spread to other parts of the body like the bones and cause symptoms like pain in the back, hip, pelvis and other areas that contain bone. Some older men may face a difficulty in erection as well, if there was not one existing before.
Lifestyle matters a lot
Sedentary living and other factors like pollution, improper eating habits, and stress are also related to prostate cancer. The doctors would always advise to live a healthy lifestyle with a proper diet and daily exercise. Cancers are also heredity that is it can pass from one generation to another. However, the probably still depends!
Tests are vital to discover prostate cancer
Many patients who suffer from cancer now in the last stages are seen to have approached the doctors only when any visible symptom was set it. One should not merely rely on the symptoms to come and eat your body; instead tests should be done regularly. The Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) test and/or rectal examination are the standard mode of determining the presence of this type of cancer. This should be done on a yearly basis and not when the symptoms strikes in. experts say that, when once the symptoms are visible, treatment is possible but sadly it is hard to get a cure.
Diet to be followed
Add lots of green leafy vegetables to your diet and prevent from consuming a lot of junk food that contain trans-fats. Besides, did you know that eliminating tobacco consumption can actually decrease the risk of cancer by 15%? In addition to that, keeping a check on your weight can also eliminate the risk of cancer by 20%, says a renowned Urologist.
Your health is in your hands and so is cancer. Diagnosis at the correct time will help prevent from spreading the tumor further. One should not believe in the myths associated with getting any kind of tests. In presence of any doubts, you can always seek help of your nearest hospital. Even general physicians would not mind giving you the correct advice if in case the oncologist is not present. Do not hesitate to share your history with the doctor, as during that time only he will be able to properly analyze your condition.
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