Understanding the facts around prostate cancer

Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers in men in South Africa.

The facts

* Prostate cancer develops when normal cells in the prostate become abnormal and start growing uncontrollably, forming a tumour or mass. The exact reason why normal cells become abnormal is unclear. If left untreated, these cells continue to multiply uncontrollably and spread to other parts of the body.

* Prostate Cancer is the most frequently diagnosed cancer in men in South Africa.

* Prostate cancer mainly affects men over the age of 50, and your risk increases as you get older.

* Prostate cancer is rare in men under the age of 40.

* Prostate cancer is not as aggressive as other cancers. If this slow-growing cancer is diagnosed and treated and managed correctly, the survival rates are high.

The risk

* Family history: Having a father or brother with prostate cancer increases the risk.

* Age: Older age increases risk.

* Diet: Possibly an increased risk with diets high in unsaturated animal fats.

The symptoms

Prostate cancer is slow growing so it may be asymptomatic for a few years.

Key signs include:

• Frequent urination
• Weak or slow urination and dribbling
• Burning urination
• Blood in urine and semen
• Difficulty in getting an erection
• Painful ejaculation
• Pain or stiffness in the lower back, thighs or hips 

Many of these symptoms are also associated with a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate (benign prostatic hyperplasia). If you experience any of the above symptoms, discuss those with your doctor.

Diagnoses

* Digital Rectal Exam (DRE)

The doctor inserts a gloved, lubricated finger into the rectum and feels the prostate through the rectal wall to check for hard or lumpy areas.

* PSA Blood test

The blood test determines the level of Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA). PSA is a protein specifically produced by prostate cells and an elevated level may indicate a higher chance of having cancer.

* Biopsy

Based on the outcome of the DRE and PSA level from the blood test, a biopsy is performed to confirm a prostate cancer diagnosis. During a biopsy a tissue sample is taken using a needle and examined by a pathologist.

Treatment

The treatment of prostate cancer differs from patient to patient based on age, risk factors, stage of disease and grade. Options include: surgery, radiotherapy, hormone therapy and chemotherapy.

* Source: dischem.co.za