October 11, 2010
The prostate gland is a small organ in the male body which is normally a little larger than a walnut. The prostate gland’s function is to store and secrete seminal fluid. If the prostate gland becomes enlarged or diseased, cancer may occur. Cancer of the prostate is such a common occurrence that one in six men will be diagnosed at some time in their lives. While not uncommon in younger men, the majority of men who are diagnosed with prostate cancer are in their 50’s or older.
Symptoms of a Prostate Cancer
An enlarged prostate may cause many discomforting symptoms, but does not necessarily mean cancer. Symptoms may occur, such as difficulty or decreased flow upon urinating, bloody urine or semen, lower back pain, or swelling in the leg or thigh. Any of these symptoms are signals that you should consult a physician.
Diagnosing Prostate Cancer
Since such a high percentage of men are at risk for developing prostate cancer, regularly scheduled tests need to be conducted by a urologist. Two main types of exams determine any abnormalities in the prostate. The digital rectal exam (DRE) is done by insertion of a gloved finger into the rectum to determine if the prostate is enlarged. The PSA test is a blood test that determines the level of the prostate-specific antigen. If the PSA level is high a biopsy may be recommended.
Treatment for Prostate Cancer
The treatment recommended will depend on the patient’s age, current health and the stage of development of the cancer. Radiation therapy or surgery may be recommended. Both have potential risks and complications. Urinary incontinence and erectile dysfunction are common occurrences and may improve over time. Ultimately, the treatment choice is left to the patient, so self-education is important.
Prostate Cancer Prevention
The best prevention is regularly scheduled exams, since there may be no symptoms. Treatment is most successful with early detection. While a heart healthy diet is recommended, there is no firm evidence that a particular food, such as tomatoes containing lycopene, is beneficial in preventing prostate cancer.
Summary
Prostate cancer affects many men annually and regular physical check-ups are necessary to determine whether there is a potential problem. Because there may be no symptoms and early detection provides an almost 100% rate of cure, there is no substitute for periodic testing. When prostate cancer is detected in the early stages, the treatment is usually much less aggressive. A simple, regularly scheduled check-up can save your life.
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