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| Prostate Cancer |
Symptoms of prostate cancer vary greatly between men and are based on their risk level. Prostate cancer is classified into three different stages, low, high, and intermediate. The stage determines how aggressive the cancer is and whether it has spread to other parts of the body. If it has spread, it will be referred to as a TNM stage. Treatment is dependent on the stage, but it is possible to prevent or delay the onset of symptoms by avoiding risk factors, including sexual activity, diet, and screenings.
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Benign prostatic hyperplasia
Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a condition in which the prostate gland grows to an abnormally large size. This condition doesn't increase the risk of developing prostate cancer and is not considered a health issue until symptoms appear. Many men with BPH have no symptoms, and it typically develops after the age of 40. However, it can lead to a weak bladder, backflow of urine, and kidney failure.
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, you should seek medical attention immediately. Although the number of prostate surgeries has declined in recent years, BPH surgeries are the most common surgery performed in the United States. Men with BPH usually undergo surgery when their symptoms are severe and drug therapies have not been effective. Talking with your health care provider and seeing a counselor may help you feel more comfortable with your decision.
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Sexual activity
Many men think that sexual activity causes prostate cancer. But, the reality is that prostate cancer is caused by a combination of factors, including the risk of developing other cancers. Researchers at the European Institute of Oncology and the American Cancer Society conducted studies to determine which factors are associated with prostate cancer. One study found a direct link between sexual activity and the development of the disease. Men aged 50 and older were at significantly higher risk than men aged 20 and 29.
A Harvard study found that increased frequency of ejaculation during adolescence is protective against prostate cancer decades later. A meta-analysis of 21 studies found that men who performed at least two ejaculations per week had a lower risk of developing prostate cancer. The researchers noted that men with lower ejaculation frequency had fewer sexual partners and sex later in life. But more evidence is needed to confirm the correlation between increasing frequency of ejaculation and a decreased risk of prostate cancer.
Diet
If you have prostate cancer, you may be wondering about the relationship between diet and prostate cancer symptoms. While the diet you choose will have a significant impact on the risk of prostate cancer, certain foods are also good for your health. Meat and dairy products, especially processed meats, can increase your risk of prostate enlargement or cancer. On the other hand, people who eat too little fruit and vegetables are more likely to develop prostate issues. In addition, fish such as salmon is an excellent source of healthy fats, and omega-3 fatty acids reduce inflammation. Cold-water fish such as tuna and salmon are also excellent sources of omega-3 fatty acids.
Although your body needs fat to function, too much fat can cause weight gain and increase your risk of aggressive prostate cancer. The good news is that there are many fat-free ways to increase your daily intake. Unsaturated fat is a good choice and is found in plant foods like nuts and seeds. High-fat dairy products, such as cheese and butter, contain high amounts of saturated fat. Instead, try to limit your intake of fat to at most 30g per day.
Screenings
In men who have no symptoms, screening for prostate cancer is an effective way to detect the disease before it progresses. When detected early, prostate cancer may be easier to treat and cure. Moreover, detecting abnormal tissue early may reduce the mortality rate. But how do these screenings work? Let's find out. What are the benefits of prostate cancer screenings for men? Here are some of them. For the first time, it's not just for men who are in their 50s.
It's important to consider your overall health and lifestyle to determine the best screening plan for you. Men who are at increased risk should undergo screening earlier. The frequency of prostate cancer screening may have to be increased, too. If you already have prostate cancer, you should follow a different screening plan. You can download and print out the prostate cancer survivorship chart from MD Anderson to develop a personalized screening plan. This will ensure that you receive the right treatment for prostate cancer.
Treatment
The good news is that a lot of prostate cancer treatments are highly effective, particularly when detected in the early stages. Screening for prostate cancer is crucial, as it can detect the disease before it has spread. The Gleason score and PSA levels determine treatment. However, a doctor can help determine a treatment plan before it is too late. To understand the treatment options, it helps to understand the causes of prostate cancer and what they mean for a patient.
A bacterial infection can cause symptoms of prostate cancer, including pain in the lower back or groin. If you're suffering from chronic bacterial prostatitis, your doctor may recommend taking antibiotics for a long period of time. Besides antibiotics, other treatments may include surgery or different forms of heat. Symptoms of acute bacterial prostatitis may also be mistaken for other conditions, such as bladder infection or inflammation.