Prostate cancer is a common type of cancer in men. It is cancer that starts in the prostate gland, which is a part of the male reproductive system. The prostate is a small, walnut-shaped gland located below the bladder and in front of the rectum. The prostate gland produces semen, which transports it during ejaculation.
Risk factors for prostate cancer
Though the cause of prostate cancer is largely unknown, a few risk factors can increase a man’s chance of developing the disease. It is always advised to visit the best urologist in Chennai as soon as you start feeling any symptoms. These include:
- Age: The risk of prostate cancer increases with age. In most cases, it is diagnosed in men over 65 years of age.
- Family history: For families with a history of prostate cancer, like if the father or brother has had prostate cancer, one is more likely to develop it themselves.
- Obesity: Men who are obese have an increased risk of prostate cancer.
- Certain genetic mutations: A small percentage of prostate cancers are caused by inherited genetic mutations, such as those on the BRCA1 or BRCA2 genes.
Diagnosis
Though prostate cancer is most common in men over 65, it can also occur in younger men. The best urology hospital detects prostate cancer early through a digital rectal exam (DRE) and a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test.
Symptoms
Symptoms of prostate cancer may include difficulty in urinating, a weak or interrupted urinary stream, pain in the pelvic area, and pain or burning during urination. However, prostate cancer may not cause any symptoms in its early stages. Yet, as the tumour grows, it may press on the urethra and block the flow of urine. Prostate treatment in Chennai is immediately required in such cases.
Tips for preventing prostate cancer
While it may be a common type of cancer in men, the good news is that it can be prevented with some lifestyle changes. A few tips for preventing prostate cancer:
- First, eat a healthy diet. A diet rich in vegetables and fruits can help protect against prostate cancer. Men should also limit their intake of fatty foods and red meat. Eating fish or taking a fish oil supplement may also help reduce the risk of prostate cancer.
- Second, men should get regular exercise. Exercise helps keep the body healthy and can reduce the risk of prostate cancer. Men should aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise each day.
- Third, men should avoid exposure to toxic chemicals. Avoid smoking and alcohol.
- Fourth, get regular medical check-ups for prostate cancer. Men should talk to their doctor about prostate cancer screening.
- Fifth, increase vitamin B intake to prevent prostate cancer. One of the most common sources of Vitamin D is the sun. It is recommended to take 10 minutes of sunlight in your body. But remember, the early morning sun rays help in such cases.
Hence, early detection is essential to preventing prostate cancer. The earlier the cancer is caught by a Urology specialist in Chennai, the better the chances are for treatment and survival. Prostate cancer is a challenging disease that should not be ignored.
