Prostate cancer: In today's modern lifestyle, health concerns are increasing, and prostate cancer has also become a serious matter. This cancer especially affects men.
Many times this disease progresses slowly, making it difficult to detect in the early stages. Therefore, it is very important to know about its symptoms and get proper treatment on time. If this disease is detected in its early stages, it can be effectively controlled, allowing the patient to live a healthy and long life.
What is prostate?
According to the American National Cancer Institute, the prostate is a small part of the men's reproductive system. It is located just below the bladder and around the urinary tube (urethra). When the cells of this gland start growing in an uncontrolled and abnormal manner, it is called prostate cancer.
Early symptoms of prostate cancer
Prostate cancer often has no obvious symptoms in its early stages, making it challenging to detect. However, there are some common symptoms to look out for:
Frequent urination: Feeling the urge to urinate frequently, especially at night.
Pain or burning while urinating: Experiencing pain or burning while urinating.
Difficulty in stopping urination: Inability to stop or control urination.
Blood in urine: Although this symptom is rare, seeing blood in the urine can be a serious sign.
Pain in waist and hips: In some cases, patients may feel persistent pain in the waist, hips, or lower back.
These symptoms are not always caused by cancer, but if any of these symptoms persist for a long time, it is important to consult a doctor.
Who are at risk?
The risk of prostate cancer increases with age. Most cases are seen in men above 50 years of age. Additionally, men who have a family history of prostate cancer are also at higher risk. Therefore, regular health checkups are extremely important for men in this age group.
Prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment
Doctors may suggest some specific tests to detect prostate cancer:
Digital Rectal Examination (DRE): In this physical examination, the doctor examines the condition and size of the prostate gland.
PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) Test: This is a blood test that measures the level of a protein called PSA in the blood. High levels of PSA may be a sign of prostate cancer, which requires further investigation.
If prostate cancer is diagnosed in its early stages, its treatment is easier and more successful. Several treatment options are available, depending on the stage of the disease and the health of the patient: –
To undergo surgery: Surgery may be performed to remove the cancerous gland.
Treatment with radiation therapy: In this, cancer cells are destroyed using high-energy radiation.
Hormone therapy is also useful: It reduces hormone levels to slow the growth of cancer cells.
In some cases, if the cancer is growing very slowly, doctors may recommend only active surveillance, in which disease progression is monitored through regular checkups. With awareness and timely screening, prostate cancer can be managed effectively and helps the patient live a healthy life.
