Ignorance Could Be Deadly
Shocking statistics reveal that nearly half of all men are unaware of their prostate and its vital role in their health. Prostate cancer claims the life of one man every 45 minutes, making it crucial for men to educate themselves and take action.
High-Profile Cases Highlight the Urgency
The recent passing of Brookside actor Dean Sullivan and the near-death experience of TV host Kym Marsh's father serve as stark reminders of the importance of early detection. David Marsh, aged 73, almost succumbed to prostate cancer after postponing a visit to the GP during lockdown.
Early Stage Prostate Cancer: The Silent Threat
Prostate Cancer UK reports that 35% of men are unaware that early stage prostate cancer often presents no symptoms. Additionally, 44% of men are clueless about the location of their prostate, and 47% are unaware of its role in semen production. Shockingly, an estimated 14,000 men in the UK currently have prostate cancer without even knowing it.
Referrals Plunge Amidst the Pandemic
Referral numbers for prostate cancer screenings dropped significantly during the pandemic, indicating that many men were not getting checked. Sun on Sunday GP Dr Jeff Foster warns that prostate cancer is a silent killer and emphasizes the urgent need for education to save lives.
Prostate Cancer: Common Questions Answered
In an effort to raise awareness and inform men about prostate cancer, Dr Jeff Foster provides answers to some frequently asked questions.
Understanding the Prostate: What You Need to Know
The prostate is a small gland in the pelvis that is part of the male reproductive system. About the size of a walnut, it produces a thick white fluid that mixes with sperm to create semen.
Recognizing Symptoms: When to Seek Help
In the early stages, prostate cancer often presents no symptoms. However, as the disease progresses, men may notice reduced urine flow, difficulty starting or stopping urination, incomplete emptying of the bladder, and increased frequency of urination at night. Pain or swelling in the bones and blood in the urine are also red flags that should prompt a visit to the GP.
Diagnosis: Differentiating Between Benign and Cancerous Prostate
Determining whether a prostate is benign and naturally growing over time or harboring cancerous cells can be challenging. The cancer can develop slowly over many years or rapidly over a few months. Knowing your risk factors is crucial. Men over 50, those of black ethnicity, and those with a family history of prostate or breast cancer are at higher risk.
Risk Factors: Uncovering the Causes
While the exact causes of prostate cancer are still unknown, it is a disease heavily influenced by lifestyle choices. Unhealthy habits such as excessive alcohol consumption, lack of exercise, and obesity significantly increase the risk.
Who Is Affected: Breaking the Stereotypes
Prostate cancer is most commonly diagnosed between the ages of 70 and 74. However, due to poor lifestyles, more aggressive forms of the disease are now being seen in men in their thirties and forties.
Alarming Statistics: The Growing Problem
Currently, around 52,000 men are diagnosed with prostate cancer each year in the UK. Unfortunately, this number is predicted to rise to approximately 85,000 annually by 2040.
Protective Measures: Taking Control of Your Health
Men over 50, or 45 for those of black ethnicity, can request a PSA blood test from their GP. This test measures the amount of prostate-specific antigen in the blood. However, it does have a false-negative rate of 10 to 15%, which means that some cancers may be missed. The government has recently partnered with Prostate Cancer UK to launch a £42 million trial to explore better screening techniques. Additionally, a new blood test that can detect 90% of cases is available privately.
Treatment Options: Tailored to Your Needs
In mild cases, a strategy called "watchful waiting" may be employed, where the cancer is closely monitored. Many men can live for decades without symptoms or treatment as prostate cancer typically progresses slowly. In more advanced or aggressive cases, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, or surgery may be necessary.
Prostate cancer is a serious health concern that demands attention. Educating oneself about the disease, recognizing the symptoms, and taking proactive measures can make a significant difference in saving lives. Don't let ignorance be the reason for unnecessary suffering and loss. Protect yourself and stay informed.
