Prostate Cancer

Prostate cancer is a common cancer in men, developing in the prostate gland. It often grows slowly but can spread to other parts of the body. Risk factors include age, family history, and genetics. Early detection through screening is crucial for effective treatment and better outcomes.

Risk Factors:

• Age: Increases with age, particularly after 50.
• Family History
• Genetics: Inherited gene mutations (e.g., BRCA1, BRCA2)
• High fat Diet
• Hormone Levels: Higher levels of androgens (male hormones) 

Symptoms:

• Frequent Urination: Especially at night.
• Difficulty Urinating: Weak or interrupted urine flow.
• Blood in Urine or Semen
• Painful Ejaculation
• Pelvic or Back Pain: Often when cancer has spread to nearby tissues.
• Low sex drive in men
• Unexplained Weight Loss: In advanced cases.
• Fatigue

Prevention and Early Detection:

• Healthy Diet: A balanced diet with low saturated fats and high in fruits and vegetables.
• Physical Activity: Regular exercise can reduce cancer risk.
• Regular Screenings: PSA (prostate-specific antigen) blood test and digital rectal exams (DRE) to detect early signs.
• Genetic Testing: For men with a family history or genetic predispositions.

Diagnosis and Staging:

• Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) Test: Measures prostate-specific antigen levels in the blood. Elevated levels may indicate cancer, but can also be due to other conditions like benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).
• Digital Rectal Exam (DRE): A physical exam to check for abnormalities in the prostate.
• Biopsy: If PSA or DRE results suggest cancer, a biopsy is performed to confirm the diagnosis.

Why Regular Screening Matters?

Regular screening, especially for those at higher risk, can detect prostate cancer early when it's more treatable. Early diagnosis increases the chances of successful treatment, such as surgery or radiation.