The prostate gland produces seminal fluid that nourishes and transports sperm during ejaculation. Prostate Cancer is one of the most common cancers among men, but fortunately, many cases grow slowly and remain confined to the prostate gland without causing serious harm. The cancer in the gland usually grows slowly and initially remains confined to the gland, where it may not cause serious harm.
However, some types of prostate cancer can be aggressive and spread quickly to other parts of the body, such as the bones and lymph nodes, if not detected early. The exact cause of prostate cancer is unknown yet, but some factors may increase a man's likelihood of developing the disease, including age, family history, race, and diet. As the cancer progresses, symptoms and other signs may include difficulty urinating, sight of blood in the urine or semen, erectile dysfunction, pains on hips, back or pelvis, and weakness or numbness in the legs or feet.
Prevalence of Prostate Cancer in the USA among men:
Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers among men in the United States, and worldwide too. According to the American Cancer Society (ACS), about 1 in 8 men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer during their lifetime. It is estimated that in the early 2020s, there were approximately 34,130 deaths attributed to the disease. Furthermore, studies have revealed microscopic pockets of cancer in about a quarter of men in their 30s and it just keeps increasing with age. Surprisingly, most men who are diagnosed with Prostate Cancer have no symptoms when detected early on.
Side effects of Prostate Cancer Medication and Treatments:
Each choice of treatment for prostate cancer involves weighing the potential benefits against the risks and side effects of each option, such as surgery and radiation therapy offer the possibility of curing the cancer but may also cause side effects such as erectile dysfunction and urinary incontinence. Hormone therapy can slow the growth of prostate cancer but may lead to hot flashes, loss of libido, and osteoporosis. Chemotherapy and immunotherapy may have side effects such as loss or hair, nausea, fatigue, and increased risk of infections.
In summary, Prostate cancer is common but varies in aggressiveness depending on the stage with various treatment options. Early detection through regular screening and prompt treatment can improve outcomes for men diagnosed with prostate cancer. Treatments such as surgery, radiation therapy, hormone therapy, and chemotherapy can effectively control the disease, they may also cause side effects that impact a man's quality of life. Supporting someone close who is diagnosed with prostate cancer involves offering emotional support, assisting with practical needs, and encouraging them to seek information and resources to help them through their journey.
