5 Prostate Cancer Facts Men Should Know

Prostate cancer is prevalent among men over the age of 50. However, it is not uncommon for younger men to get it. Hence, it is crucial to keep tabs on one’s symptoms, and a check with a doctor can help prevent dangerous situations.

It may not be easy to monitor the latest research news closely for men who have already been diagnosed with prostate cancer or are concerned about their risk. Many of these facts can be depressing too. 

Here Are Some Crucial Prostate Cancer Facts Men Must Know To Make Their Life Easy, Healthier, And Stress-Free

1. Diet Change and Prostate Cancer Risk

Men must focus on maintaining a healthy diet to be able to reduce the risk of developing prostate cancer. Medical experts usually recommend a diet rich in fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains lean meats, low-fat dairy, and non-meat protein sources. Nuts and beans are great alternatives to meat protein sources. Reducing the intake of added sugars and refined grains is also important. Although a diet change may not have a magical effect on the disease and its risk, the practice will keep men healthy and lower the risk. Adding a superfood to your diet and consuming junk regularly will not give any benefits. A “superfood” will not cover up or compensate for poor eating habits

2, Annual PSA Testing

Most men do not need yearly PSA testing. This is a blood test for prostate-specific antigen, a protein produced in the prostate. The presence of this protein in high levels signals the presence of cancer. In 2012, a recommendation was issued by the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force against routine PSA-based screening for prostate cancer in men. This was mainly applicable to men without the disease. According to the Task Force, the risks of screening were more significant than the benefits. In some cases, high false-positive rates of the test and the harm of being treated for a prostate tumor that grows very slowly may be fatal.

3. Genetics and Prostate Cancer Risk

Studies have revealed that a family history of cancers (not just prostate cancer) may increase one’s risk of developing prostate cancer. Hence, a man with a family history of cancer must talk to his doctor and know if special screenings are required. A new diagnosis of cancer in the family should prompt you to speak to your doctor without delay.

4. Biopsies During Prostate Cancer Surveillance

Most patients want to know if they require biopsies. Presently, biopsies are the standard of care. When patients are under active surveillance, doctors use regular biopsies. This is important for checking the progress of prostate tumors. When the doctor finds any improvement in cancer, the patient is asked to begin treatment. In case the tumor is stable, the patient stays on surveillance. This approach protects men from the side effects of treatment.

5. Balancing Side Effects from Prostate Cancer

These days, men have several treatment options, including robotic surgery for prostate cancer. This treatment has less pain and side effects. It is also known for faster recovery. It is vital to have a detailed discussion with the doctor about the side effects of treatment beforehand. Most importantly, the patient must follow the care instructions following surgery. Doctors usually help patients choose a specific course of treatment based on their condition. They also offer special tips and instructions on managing post-treatment symptoms to make the journey to recovery easy, accessible, and faster. 

Understanding the above-listed facts will help you deal with prostate cancer or the risk of disease in a better way.