Early Detection Improves Prostate Cancer Treatment

Prostate Cancer is the most common type of cancer diagnosed in Canadian men.  It is most often slow growing and treatment, which is based on the type of cancer present, is usually successful, according to the Canadian Cancer Society.   Although nearly one in eight men will develop prostate cancer,  the mortality rate has been slowing over the past decade.  Based on 2010 estimates, one in twenty-seven men diagnosed with prostate cancer will die as a result of the disease.

With early detection, men have a better chance of successful treatment.  After the age of 50, men should seek medical consultation if they have the following warning signs:

Warning Signs

• frequent and intense need to urinate
• difficulty starting or stopping the flow of urine
• interrupted urine stream
• blood in the urine or semen
• painful ejaculation

There are two common tests for prostate cancer including a digital rectal examination in which a doctor will physically examine the prostate through the rectum with a gloved hand, feeling for lumps and changes in size, shape and consistency.   The second test, a Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test, measures the amount of PSA in the blood.   False negatives and positive results can occur with this test and it has some risk factors which are important to discuss with your doctor.  Testing does not indicate if the cancer is slow growing or not and as a result some men may get treatment they do not need.  If you are at higher risk than average for developing prostate cancer, talk with your physician to develop a personalized plan.

Known Risk Factors

• African ancestry
• Family History of Prostate Cancer
• Risk increases with age (66 per cent diagnosed over the age of 65)

Possible Risk Factors

• Diet high in fat and dairy
• Diet high in red or processed meat
• Being overweight
• Inherited gene mutation
• Exposure to high levels of testosterone
• Inflammation of the prostate
• Tall adult height
• Exposure to pesticides
• Occupational exposures

source:  Canadian Cancer Society

If testing does suggest prostate cancer, a biopsy will usually be performed to confirm diagnosis. This is an outpatient procedure and can be done in a few minutes.  Discussion with your doctor will determine the best course of treatment if any.   To learn more about prostate cancer visit the American Cancer Society website at:
http://www.cancer.org/cancer/prostatecancer/index?utm_source=msn&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=Prostate+Cancer&utm_content=Prostate+Cancer&utm_term=prostate%20cancer%20prevention .