Did you know that prostate cancer is the second most common cancer among men? Around 11% of men will face this diagnosis in their lifetime. However, there is hope: early detection is crucial for effective treatment and management.
What Puts You at Risk?
Understanding your risk factors is essential for proactive health management. Here are some key factors that can increase your risk of prostate cancer:
- Family History: If your father or brother had prostate cancer before the age of 65, it’s important to discuss this with your doctor. Family history significantly raises your risk.
- Genetic Factors: Certain genetic conditions, such as Lynch syndrome or mutations in BRCA genes, can increase your susceptibility to prostate cancer.
- Age Matters: Autopsy studies reveal that the prevalence increases with age. It affects approximately 30% of men by the age of 50 and around 70% of men by age 70.
- Racial Considerations: Black men are at a higher risk and often encounter more aggressive forms of the disease compared to other racial groups.
READ MORE: Here’s Everything You Need To Know About Prostate Cancer
Screening Saves Lives
Depending on your risk factors, screening for prostate cancer may begin as early as age 40. Early screening can detect cancer before symptoms arise, giving you a significant advantage. Be proactive about your health and consult with your healthcare provider about the best screening schedule for you.
Spotting the Signs
Prostate cancer can sometimes be detected through a simple blood test known as the PSA (prostate-specific antigen) test. However, this test is not foolproof, as elevated PSA levels can be caused by other conditions as well. It’s one part of the diagnostic puzzle. Other methods for detecting prostate cancer include:
- Digital Rectal Examination (DRE): A physical exam where a doctor feels the prostate through the rectal wall to check for abnormalities.
- Tissue Analysis: During prostate surgery, tissue samples can be analysed to confirm the presence of cancer.
- Prostate MRI: An imaging technique that provides detailed pictures of the prostate to help identify any abnormal areas.
READ MORE: How to Lower Your Prostate Cancer Risk
What if Cancer Is Suspected?
If your PSA levels or other tests indicate potential cancer, a biopsy is the next step. This procedure, usually performed with ultrasound guidance, involves taking a small tissue sample from the prostate to confirm the presence of cancer cells.
Understanding Staging and Grading
Staging and grading are crucial for determining the appropriate treatment plan. Staging refers to the cancer’s location and extent, while grading indicates its aggression. The Gleason scale is commonly used to assess the cancer’s aggressiveness, helping guide treatment decisions.
Treatment Options
Treatment for prostate cancer varies based on the cancer’s stage and grade. Options include:
- Watchful Waiting: Monitoring the cancer closely without immediate treatment, often used for slow-growing cancers.
- Radical Robotic-Assisted Surgery: A surgical option that involves the removal of the prostate gland and surrounding tissues.
- Brachytherapy: A targeted form of radiotherapy where radioactive seeds are implanted directly into the prostate.
Advanced cancers may require additional treatments, such as hormone therapy, to manage the disease effectively.
READ MORE: Why Just Five Minutes of Exercise Could Cut Your Cancer Risk
Prognosis
The prognosis for prostate cancer depends largely on the stage at diagnosis. Localised cancer, which is confined to the prostate, has a high five-year survival rate. However, once the cancer spreads beyond the prostate, the outlook changes. Early treatment is crucial for improving survival rates and managing the disease effectively.
For older individuals or those with other health conditions, the approach to treating prostate cancer may be adapted to fit their overall health status.
For more information, visit Dr. Julius Jacobs here.
Meet Dr. Julius Jacobs
Dr. Julius Jacobs, a highly experienced urologist, earned his MBChB and Mmed Urology degrees from the University of Pretoria. Specialising in prostate cancer treatment, he practices at Wilgers Life Hospital. Dr. Jacobs holds diplomas in laparoscopic surgery, has trained internationally in male erectile restoration and incontinence, and will soon be accredited in robotic-assisted surgery. He actively participates in specialised congresses and continuous education programs, ensuring he stays at the forefront of his field.
