Did you know that Prostate Cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer amongst Australian men? Furthermore, in 2020 it remains as the second deadliest cancer in men.
What makes this type of cancer more arduous is that prostate cancer comes with almost no signs of symptoms. It often brings about few or no changes at all in your health until it is so advanced that it could become even deadly.
Early detection therefore provides an effective way to treat and survive this cancer, which is why every year during the month of September, we help raise awareness about this disease and encourage men to know more about the risks and how early screenings can be life-saving.
Read on to learn more about prostate cancer along with some facts and awareness.
What you should know about Prostate Cancer?
Prostate Cancer is caused when an abnormal growth of cells occurs in the prostate gland, a gland that forms part of the male reproductive system and is responsible for producing a fluid that helps in male fertility.
Your risk of being diagnosed with prostate cancer increases as you grow older. While most men will never see any symptoms, it tends to become more prominent at a later stage.
Due to its extremely slow growth rate, prostate cancer has more successful recoveries than compared to any other type of cancer. According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, the survival rate stands at 95% making prostate cancer one of the most curable cancers too. Thus, early screenings are advantageous and anyone who thinks they could be at risk should visit their general practitioners.
Risk of developing Prostate Cancer
Men over the age of 50 or 40 with a family history of prostate cancer should seek a doctor’s help about screenings for prostate cancer.
Family history– If you have an immediate family member who was diagnosed with prostate cancer, you are already at a higher risk of this cancer developing. For example, having a brother or a father with prostate cancer nearly doubles the chances of prostate cancer.
Risks are also higher for men who have a first-degree relative with prostate cancer or one whose relative was diagnosed with prostate cancer when young.
Age – Age is one of the defining factors of prostate cancer. Since the average age during diagnosis is 66, prostate cancer is definitely age-dependent. In Australia, the incidence rate for prostate cancer peaks between the ages of 70-74.
Lifestyle – Some studies have suggested that particularly high fat and carbohydrate-rich diets increase the chances of being diagnosed with prostate cancer amongst older men. Although no research has yet found any links between diet and prostate cancer, it is recommended to have a balanced diet to mitigate risks for any kind of cancer.
No studies have been able to establish a link between obesity and prostate cancer. However, research led by the University of Oxford has found that obese and overweight men are at an increased risk of aggressive prostate cancer.
How is prostate cancer detected?
Prostate cancer can be found early with screening tests but it’s important to remember that screening alone can’t prove if you have one. It is often followed by a prostate biopsy called a PSA test (Prostate-specific Antigen test). This test measures your PSA level, a protein, in your blood and if your results are not normal, you might need further tests to look for prostate cancer.
Prostate Cancer Prevention
Talk to your doctors
Primary health care plays an important role in prostate cancer management. If you think you are at risk, consult your doctors. They can help you with a management plan to mitigate risks and recommend tests and specialist treatment if needed.
Maintain a healthy diet
While the impact of a special diet is actively being researched for prostate cancer, several studies have indicated that a balanced diet is vital to reduce your risks for prostate cancer.
Maintain a healthy weight
Maintaining a healthy weight is vital for keeping yourself risk-free from any type of disease. A healthy BMI for men will have a reduced risk for prostate cancer.
Seek support through us
Our team of doctors hold a special interest in cancer diagnosis and management plans. We encourage you to visit our Cranbourne clinic and get screened for prostate cancer.
We will refer any patients suspected of prostate cancer to a specialist for further tests.
If you have any concerns, you can book an online appointment or call us at (03) 5995 4988 to consult our doctors today.