Men on the list most often diagnosed with prostate cancer: one factor increases risk 2-3 times

The doctor identifies the risk factors.

Although the exact causes of this disease are unknown, according to the doctor, the main risk factors that increase the chances of developing prostate cancer are well known today.

“The first is old age. It is known that prostate cancer is more likely to develop in people over 50 and younger men are much less likely to develop the disease. The disease is more often diagnosed in men between 66 and 68 years old.

Second, genetic predisposition, where the risk of the disease increases due to changes in family genes and the environment, that is, if a close relative of a man, such as a father or brother, has been diagnosed with cancer of the prostate, the risk of other men in the family increases 2-3 times. It is estimated that about 20 percent. prostate cancer cases are determined precisely by genetic predisposition.

The third is race. Although this cancer disease is known to be more common in black men, prostate cancer does not bypass other races. In Europe, people in the northern regions are more likely to have prostate cancer, ”J. Verikaitė told the media.

Early diagnosis plays a fundamental role

According to the urologist, as with many oncological diseases, early diagnosis plays a fundamental role in the fight against prostate cancer.

“When prostate cancer is diagnosed in the first stage, the survival rate for five years or more is almost 100%, and in the later stages, only about 30%. Of course, this is influenced not only by the stage of the disease, but also by malignancy, as well as by the age of the patient and comorbidities ”, says Dr. J. Verikaitė.

According to her, in order to detect the disease in time, it is important to carry out periodic controls, especially in men who are at risk of prostate cancer due to age or genetic predisposition, that is, at 50 years of age, and in the case of genetic diseases. predisposition – 45.

The doctor points out that men with urinary incontinence should not be affected, since prostate cancer has the same symptoms as benign prostatic hyperplasia, another common but not malignant disease in men.

Simple tests help identify serious illness

“The early diagnosis of cancer today involves a test for prostate specific antigen (PSA) in human blood. Elevated levels of this protein in the blood suggest possible changes in the prostate. However, it is important to understand that only a specialist can make an accurate diagnosis and only after thorough testing.

For this reason, it is important to go to a urologist who will carry out an examination and, if necessary, a urinary or transrectal prostate ultrasound, digital prostate palpation, will assess its structure for the formation of nodules, and if a malignancy is suspected, a biopsy may be prescribed ” says physician J. Verikaitė.

When asked if these tests require special preparation, the doctor pointed out that the results of the PSA test also depend on the general state of health, since this antigen is sensitive to any inflammatory process in the body. Therefore, this test should be performed in the absence of colds and in the absence of other inflammatory diseases. In addition, it is recommended to abstain from sexual intercourse the day before the test. Urinary ultrasound is recommended when the bladder is full.

What symptoms indicate a possible illness?

The urologist cautions that prostate cancer can be difficult to detect due to the symptoms of another benign male disease, prostatic hyperplasia.

“The prostate is a walnut-sized gland, located under the bladder of men and covering the ureters. This gland produces and secretes the secretion necessary to maintain the viability of sperm and is therefore important for male sexual function. Both prostatic hyperplasia and its oncological diseases have the same symptoms: frequent, profuse and sometimes painful urination, increased urination at night, decreased urine flow. In rare cases, there is also blood in the urine or semen, “says the doctor.

If you notice any of these symptoms, you should see a doctor.

A healthy lifestyle is also important

According to the doctor, as with many health problems, a healthy and balanced lifestyle is important for cancer prevention.

“Men with a body mass index (BMI) greater than 30 are believed to have a potentially higher risk of prostate cancer.

To prevent not only cancer, but also many other health disorders, it is recommended to follow the principles of a healthy life: maintain physical activity, eat a balanced diet, ensure that there are enough vegetables and fruits in the diet. .

Unfortunately, so far there are no specific scientifically proven prevention measures, so the most effective way to prevent malignant diseases of the prostate in a timely manner is to carry out regular check-ups ”, says the doctor.