Overview
The prostate is a small walnut-shaped gland in the pelvis of men, located next to the bladder. It secretes a fluid that nourishes and protects sperm.
Prostate cancer begins when the cells in the prostate gland start to grow out of control. There are often no symptoms during the early stages, but screening can help detect early changes before symptoms develop.
Causes of Prostate Cancer
- Obesity
- Smoking
- Prostate inflammation
- Family history
- Sexually transmitted infections
- Age
Symptoms of Prostate Cancer
- Frequent urination
- Blood in urine or semen
- Painful urination
- Painful ejaculation
- Difficulty maintaining an erection
- Pain or discomfort while sitting
Prevention of Prostate Cancer
- Eat and maintain a healthy, balanced diet
- Consume low-fat foods
- Reduce intake of dairy products
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Avoid smoking
- Exercise regularly
Diagnosis of Prostate Cancer
- Digital Rectal Exam (DRE): The doctor inserts a lubricated, gloved finger into the rectum to feel the prostate for abnormalities in size, shape, or texture.
- Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) Test: A blood test that measures PSA levels — higher levels may indicate inflammation, enlargement, infection, or cancer.
- Imaging Tests: Ultrasound, MRI, and prostate biopsy help confirm the diagnosis and determine cancer spread.
- Advanced Scans: PET scans, bone scans, and MRIs may be done to check if cancer has metastasized to other parts of the body.
Treatment of Prostate Cancer
Surgery: Removal of the tumour within the prostate gland. Depending on its stage, doctors may remove the prostate, nearby lymph nodes, or seminal vesicles.
Radiation Therapy: Uses high-energy beams such as X-rays or protons to destroy cancer cells or slow their growth.
Hormone Therapy: Reduces or blocks the hormones that fuel cancer growth.
Chemotherapy: Uses drugs (intravenously or orally) to stop cancer cells from growing or dividing, targeting cells throughout the body.
Immunotherapy: Boosts the body’s immune system using lab-made or natural substances to fight cancer cells.
Cryosurgery: Freezes and destroys cancer cells using ultrasound guidance. This treatment can sometimes cause impotence.
Photodynamic Therapy: Combines a special drug with laser light to kill cancer cells. The drug activates only when exposed to laser beams targeting the cancerous area.
Takeaway
Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers among men, but with early detection and proper treatment, it can often be managed successfully.
Regular screenings, healthy lifestyle habits, and medical consultations play a key role in prevention and recovery.