Prostrate Cancer

Prostate cancer is a male-specific disease originating in the prostate gland, which lies beneath the bladder and surrounds the urethra, playing a role in producing seminal fluid. It involves uncontrolled cell growth that can spread and become fatal, unlike benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), which is non-cancerous but may obstruct urine flow. Testosterone fuels its development, and while it often grows slowly, early detection is crucial. Risk factors include age, race (higher in black males), and family history. Symptoms may be absent early on but can include urinary issues, blood in urine/semen, sexual dysfunction, and pain if the cancer spreads. Screening targets men over 40 (black males) or 45 (others) using digital rectal exams and PSA blood tests, though only a biopsy confirms diagnosis. Treatment varies by stage and must be medically guided. Survival rates are high if detected early, with over 10 years of life expectancy when confined to the prostate, emphasizing the importance of regular checkups and early screening.

Prostate cancer is one of the most common types of cancer, but is specifically confined to males. The cancer arises from the prostate gland, which is part of the male reproductive system. The gland is situated underneath the bladder and encircles the channel through which urine passes called the urethra. The prostate is responsible for producing seminal fluid that nourishes and aids in the transportation of sperms among other things.

Prostate cancer is the uncontrolled growth of the prostate gland cells which have the ability to spread and cause death. It is different from the benign (harmless) counterpart called benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) which lacks the ability to spread but can cause obstruction of the urethra. Cancer development and growth is fuelled by a male hormone called testosterone. It usually grows slowly and in many cases it may not cause significant health problems especially if it is detected early. Here are some key points about prostate cancer.

1. Causes: There is no particular cause but risk factors for developing prostate cancer include advancing age,

racial

differences – black males more at risk, family history (the closer the relation, the stronger the risk).

2. Symptoms: Prostate cancer may not cause any symptoms at all, especially in early stages. As it progresses,

it may

lead to various symptoms depending on the extent of spread. It is important to state that spread can be local (near where it is situated) or to distant regions such as pelvic bones, spine,

lungs,

etc. The symptoms will include difficulty in passing urine, blood in urine/ semen, sexual problems (impotence), painful hips, backache, weakness in the legs, and kidney failure among other things.

3. Screening: The goal is to prevent death from prostate cancer and to maintain the quality of life of the ones with the disease.

·       The condition is rare before the age of 50, hence the target population for screening include those above 40 in black males and 45 in other races. The tools used for screening include: ........  Digital rectal examination (DRE) – this involves a doctor’s examination of the prostate gland through the rectal wall using fingers

·       Prostate specific antigen (PSA) – this is a blood test that is done but only raises a suspicion of cancer as it has its own limitations.

·       It should be noted that only a biopsy can confirm the diagnosis. Additionally, ultrasound and other imaging techniques can be used to obtain more information about the state of the prostate.

4. Treatment: The options depend on the stage and type of cancer. This can be a complex decision and should be discussed with the healthcare provider. It is vital to seek medical help and avoid usage of unauthorized medication at all costs.

5. Survival rate: Prostate cancer has a relatively high survival rate, especially when detected early. Once spread has occurred the outlook is poor. The life expectancy of a patient with tumour confined to the prostate is more than 10 years. It is important to remember that regular medical checkups and early detection through screening are key to improving the chances of detecting prostate cancer if it does occur.