Overview

Prostate cancer is a type of cancer which occurs in the small walnut-shaped gland called prostate, in men. The prostate produces seminal fluid which sustains and transports the sperms. The most common cancer in men, prostate cancer, can do some severe harm once it starts spreading to other parts of the body. There is a common notion that prostate cancer is restricted to the prostate gland and that needs no special treatment. However, when the symptoms are detected on time it can lead to a higher recovery rate.

Causes & Symptoms

Even though it’s still unclear what the significant causes of prostate cancer in men are, It is believed that it starts with abnormal cell growth within the prostate gland. The process of mutation triggers abnormal cell growth, thereby multiplying a rapid rate. Sadly, the atypical cells continue to live even after the other cells die. These amassing cells start forming a tumor that can attack the nearby tissues. They also tend to break off and metastasize onto other body parts. However, these are the factors that can put you at risk of developing prostate cancer.

• Age – Age is a primary factor in this disease. As your age increases, you’re more prone to prostate cancer 
• Family History – People, who have a family history of prostate cancer, are vulnerable to this disease too. They should undergo regular screenings to identify any underlying symptoms. Also, if you have a genetic history of carrying BRCA1 or BRCA2 in your genes, you have higher chances of contracting this disease.
• Obesity – Obesity is a root cause of many diseases, including prostate cancer. Obese people are more prone to advanced stages of prostate cancer, which is challenging to treat. 
• Smoking – If you are into smoking, it’s high time you quit it altogether. As per the latest research, men who smoke carry the risk of developing prostate cancer. 
• Diet Intake – If you are a non-vegetarian, consume more calories and partake in excessive sugar intake, you are quite vulnerable to this disease. Lack of physical activities and exercising can add to your risk of getting closer to this type of cancer.

What are the Symptoms of Prostate Cancer?

Some common symptoms of this disease are:

• Discomfort in the entire pelvic section
• Trouble in urinating
• Blood traces in semen
• Reduced force of urine
• Erectile dysfunction
• Bone pain

Prostate Cancer Stages: When to Seek Treatment?

There are four stages of prostate cancer. Consulting an experienced doctor even if you start experiencing mild symptoms of prostate cancer can be a wise decision. As a rule of thumb, men who have crossed 30 years of age should be vigilant to any abnormal developments in the body. Regular screenings can reduce the chances of contracting an advanced stage of cancer. 

Though these symptoms can indicate other issues as well, consulting a doctor will not cause any harm. Extreme conditions like blood discharge, acute pain, and so on, require immediate medical attention. 

Treatment Options

Here are some possible treatment options for prostate cancer:

1. Surgery – Doctors can remove the infected gland by operating on it. The entire prostate gland, its surrounding tissues, and lymph nodes are removed.
2. Radiation Therapy – High-powered energy is used to kill prostate cancer cells in radiation therapy. There are two types of radiation used in this treatment; external radiation therapy and brachytherapy. 
3. Hormone Therapy – This is also one of the successful prostate cancer treatment options. Prostate cancer cells breeds on the hormone called testosterone. Cutting off the production of this hormone will automatically kill cancer cells. 
4. Freezing Prostate Tissue – This advanced technology kills the cancerous cells by freezing them first and then thawing them. Small and ultra-sharp needles are used in this process to inject a cold gas directly into the cells and surrounding tissues.
5. Chemotherapy – Chemotherapy is prescribed to the patients whose prostate cancer has spread to other parts of the body. Chemotherapy can be given through the vein, pills, or both. This treatment is also successful for patients who failed to respond to hormone therapy. 

As mentioned earlier, prostate cancer is not a deadly disease unless and until it starts spreading to other body parts. Make sure you are well informed about the disease, its stages, and possible treatment options. Connect with cancer survivors and stay connected with your family and friends. Staying positive and optimistic about a bright future is the key to beat this disease. 

For more details, log on at https://www.narayanahealth.org/prostate-cancer.