Movember is an annual event held throughout November, during which many men grow moustaches to raise awareness and funds for men’s health, particularly focusing on issues like prostate cancer, testicular cancer, mental health, and suicide prevention. The name “Movember” is a combination of the words “mustache” and “November.”

In this article, we will discuss prostate cancer, its causes, risk factors, symptoms, as well as available exams and treatments.

What is Prostate Cancer?

Prostate cancer is a disease that develops in the prostate gland, located below the bladder in men. Although prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men, its prognosis is often favorable, particularly when detected at an early stage.

Average Age of People Affected by Prostate Cancer
Prostate cancer mainly affects men over the age of 50. According to Quebec data, the median age at diagnosis is around 67 years old. The risk increases significantly with age, and the majority of cases are diagnosed in men aged 65 to 74. This factor makes screening a crucial element starting at age 50, especially for those with a family history or who belong to high-risk groups.

Causes and Risk Factors of Prostate Cancer
While the exact causes of prostate cancer are still unknown, some studies have identified several risk factors that may increase the likelihood of developing the disease:

  • Age: The risk increases with age, particularly after 50.
  • Family history: Men with close relatives who have prostate cancer are at higher risk.
  • Ethnicity: Men of African descent are at a higher risk.
  • Diet: A diet high in animal fats and dairy products may be a risk factor.
  • Tall stature in adulthood: Taller men have a slightly increased risk of prostate cancer, though the reasons for this are not fully understood. Some studies suggest that factors related to growth, such as exposure to growth hormones, could play a role in this increased risk.
  • Obesity: Obesity is associated with a higher risk of prostate cancer. The exact mechanisms are still being studied, but excess body fat may influence hormone levels and inflammation, thus contributing to a higher risk.

Symptoms of Prostate Cancer

Early Stages Symptoms

Prostate cancer is often called a “silent” disease because, in its early stages, it usually presents no symptoms. Unfortunately, this makes detection difficult without regular screening exams. Many men with prostate cancer do not feel any symptoms, and the disease can progress undetected for years, making screening exams even more crucial.

More Advanced Stages Symptoms

As cancer progresses, symptoms may appear, including:

  • Difficulty urinating
  • Frequent need to urinate, especially at night
  • Pain or a burning sensation while urinating
  • Urinary incontinence
  • Erectile dysfunction
  • Blood in urine or semen
  • Pain in the lower back, hips, or thighs if the cancer has spread

These symptoms are not exclusive to prostate cancer, but when they do appear, it is important to see a doctor for further examination.

The Importance of Prostate Cancer Screening

Since prostate cancer often shows no symptoms in its early stages, it is essential for men to undergo regular screening exams. These exams can help identify the disease at an early stage when it can be more easily managed.

Exams Used to Screen or Assess the Extent of Prostate Cancer

Prostate cancer screening or evaluation is based on several exams:

  • Digital Rectal Exam (DRE): A doctor examines the size, shape, and texture of the prostate by inserting a finger into the rectum.
  • PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) Test: This blood test measures PSA levels in the blood. Elevated PSA levels can indicate cancer, but can also be elevated in cases of inflammation or benign prostate enlargement.
  • Transrectal Ultrasound: Used to visualize the prostate and detect abnormalities.
  • Biopsy: If cancer is suspected, a biopsy may be performed to confirm the presence of cancer cells.
  • MRI and CT Scan: These imaging tests are often used to assess the extent of the disease and determine whether it has spread.

Treatments for Prostate Cancer

Prostate cancer treatment depends on several factors, including the aggressiveness of the cancer and the patient’s age. Here are the main options:

  • Active Surveillance: For slow-growing cancers, no immediate treatment is required, but regular monitoring is conducted.
  • Surgery: A radical prostatectomy may be performed to remove the prostate.
  • Radiotherapy: Used to target and destroy cancer cells.
  • Hormone Therapy: Blocks male hormones that stimulate cancer growth.
  • Chemotherapy: Used in advanced cases or when other treatments fail.
  • Focal Therapy: For certain small tumors detected early, focal therapy is increasingly used. This approach targets only the tumor area and may reduce some complications, such as sexual dysfunction and incontinence.

Additional Resources

In Conclusion

Prostate health is serious, but screening and treatment can make a difference. It is crucial for men, especially those at high risk, to discuss with their doctor the best approach to their prostate health. 

Want to schedule an appointment for your exams?

If you have a medical referral for an ultrasound, MRI, or CT scan, we invite you to visit our website RADIMED.CA to book an appointment or learn about our other services. You’ll also find information on clinics where you can have your exams done.

Note: The information contained in this article is for educational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice.

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