Do I have Prostate Cancer?
Prostate cancer is a serious issue for men and one that should not be taken lightly. Although men may be told to brush off pain or “rub dirt on it,” there should not be a delay in treating prostate cancer. Over 170,000 new cases of prostate cancer are expected to be reported in 2019 with over 30,000 deaths, according to the American Cancer Society. 1 in 9 men may be diagnosed with prostate cancer and men should take this issue seriously as it can be hard to catch. If you have been experiencing some troubling symptoms, you will want to visit your doctor or urologist. Let’s take a look at what prostate cancer is and how it can affect men.
What is Prostate Cancer?
The prostate gland is in a man’s lower abdomen and is located underneath the bladder. Per healthline, “When an abnormal, malignant growth of cells — which is called a tumor — forms in the prostate, it’s called prostate cancer.” That malignant growth can also spread to other cells within the body and into other parts of the body including bone. However, cancer is always named after where it starts. Prostate cancer affects men differently by age range. If you are middle age you have a higher chance of having prostate cancer, but 60% of cases happen to men who are 65 or older. If you fit that age range, you need to have regular PSA tests along with other screenings. There are different types of prostate cancer that can be aggressive or nonaggressive. The sooner you go for testing, the faster doctors can determine the status of your cancer. There are no known causes of prostate cancer. It’s also important to note that the cancer cells form over many years and are hard to notice until a sizeable amount has been detected. Once you hit middle age, regular checkups will be necessary.
Signs of Prostate Cancer.
Not all of these signs are indicative of something such as prostate cancer. However, any of these signs can indicate something is wrong. If you have any of these symptoms, please contact your doctor or urologist: urinary problems, sexual problems such as erectile dysfunction, pain in the back, pelvis, or chest. Urinary problems should be of high consideration as that growth could be pushing on your bladder. All of these signs point to men needing to see a urologist. Especially if you experience something such as painful urination, you should contact a doctor. Most importantly if you experience any of these symptoms multiple times, you should begin to document them and contact your doctor. As stated before, cancer can take years to grow and the more preemptive treatment you take the better chance you have of catching prostate cancer. If you are entering into middle age, take on some preventive techniques that can help you lower your risk of prostate cancer.
Tests and Treatment for Prostate Cancer
Tests to examine for prostate cancer are PSA test, transrectal ultrasound, MRI, prostate biopsy, lymph node biopsy, CT scan, and bone scan. More about each individual test can be read on the American Cancer Society website. Make sure to ask your doctor important questions about how you should be feeling or how active you should be. Treatment will depend on age, health status, cancer growth, side effects, and a chance of a cure. You may need only monitor for symptoms or need radiation treatment or chemo. This decision is made on an individual basis and you need to consult with your doctor or a urologist.
Are you experiencing symptoms of prostate cancer? Does your family have a history of cancer? Are you over 65? If you match any of this criteria you may want to get some tests done. Northwoods Urology is your trusted partner. Our experts will give you the best chance of being proactive. Contact us today to get screened for prostate cancer and let us help you keep your health at its best.
