Prostate cancer is very common among men over the age of 50. However, it is not uncommon for younger men to get it.Hence, it is crucial to keep tabs on one’s symptoms and a check with doctor can help prevent dangerous situations.
Diet Change and Prostate Cancer Risk
Men must focus on maintaining a healthy diet to be able to reduce the risk of developing prostate cancer. Medical experts usually recommend a diet rich in fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean meats, low-fat dairy, and non-meat protein sources. Nuts and beans are great alternatives to meat protein sources. Reducing the intake of added sugars and refined grains is also important. Although a diet change may not have a magical effect on the disease and its risk, the practice will keep men healthy and lower the risk.
Annual PSA Testing
Most men do not need a yearly PSA testing. This is a blood test for prostate-specific antigen, a protein produced in the prostate. Presence of this protein in high levels signals the presence of cancer. In the year 2012, a recommendation was issued by the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force against routine PSA-based screening for prostate cancer in men. This was mainly applicable on men without the disease. According to the Task Force, the risks of screening were greater than the benefits. In some cases, high false-positive rates of the test and the harms of being treated for a prostate tumor that grows very slow may be fatal.
Genetics and Prostate Cancer Risk
Studies have revealed that a family history of cancers (not just prostate cancer) may increase one’s risk of developing prostate cancer. Hence, it is crucial that a man with a family history of cancer must talk to his doctor and know if special screenings are required. A new diagnosis of cancer in the family should prompt you to speak to your doctor without delay.
Biopsies During Prostate Cancer Surveillance
Most patients want to know if they really require biopsies. Presently, biopsies are standard of care. When patients are under active surveillance, doctors use regular biopsies. This is important for checking the progress of prostate tumors. When the doctor finds any progress in tumor, the patient is asked to begin treatment. In case, the tumor is stable, the patient stays on surveillance. This approach protects men from side effects of treatment.
Balancing Side Effects from Prostate Cancer
These days, men have a number of treatment options including robotic surgery for prostate cancer. This treatment has less pain and side effects. It is also known for faster recovery. It is important to have a detailed discussion with the doctor about side effects of treatment beforehand. Most importantly, the patient must follow the care instructions following a surgery. Doctors usually help patients choose a specific course of treatment based on their condition. They also offer special tips and instructions on managing post-treatment symptoms to make the journey to recovery easier and faster.
