“About 1 man in 8 will be diagnosed with prostate cancer during his lifetime,” according to the American Cancer Society,
November is prostate cancer awareness month and Forsythe Cancer Care Center wants you to be educated about prostate cancer so you and your loved ones can detect the disease early and seek the best treatment options available. Here’s what you need to know:
Symptoms of Prostate Cancer
The symptoms of prostate cancer can include urinary problems, such as difficulty urinating or a decreased urine flow. Other symptoms can include pain in the lower back, hips, or thighs; difficulty ejaculating; and blood in the urine or semen.
However, many men with prostate cancer do not experience any symptoms at all. That’s why regular screenings are so important.
How is prostate cancer diagnosed?
Prostate cancer is usually diagnosed through a digital rectal exam or a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test. During a digital rectal exam, the doctor inserts a gloved, lubricated finger into the rectum to feel for any abnormalities in the prostate. A PSA test measures the level of PSA in the blood. PSA is a protein produced by the prostate, and elevated levels can be a sign of prostate cancer.
What are the treatment options for prostate cancer?
Traditional treatment options for prostate cancer include surgery, radiation therapy, and hormone therapy. At Forsythe Cancer Care Center in Reno, NV, we offer alternative cancer therapies that have shown up to a 95% survival rate. You can learn more HERE.
The type of treatment that is best for a particular patient depends on a variety of factors, including the stage and grade of the cancer, the patient’s age and overall health, and the preferences of the patient and his doctor.
What is the prognosis for prostate cancer?
The prognosis for prostate cancer depends on a number of factors, including the stage and grade of the cancer, the patient’s age and overall health, and the type of treatment that is used. Prostate cancer that is detected early has a high survival rate. The five-year survival rate for men with localized prostate cancer is nearly 99%. The survival rates for men with more advanced stages of prostate cancer are lower, but still quite high compared to other forms of cancer.
The prognosis often depends on how early prostate cancer is detected and treated. Getting frequent checkups and early diagnosis is key to fighting the disease.
How can I prevent prostate cancer?
There is no sure way to completely prevent prostate cancer, but there are some risk factors that can be avoided, such as smoking and a diet high in saturated fat. In addition, regular screenings for prostate cancer are recommended for men over the age of 50. These screenings can help to detect the disease early, when it is most treatable.
What should I do if I think I might have prostate cancer?
If you are experiencing any symptoms of prostate cancer, or if you are over the age of 50 and have not been screened for the disease, it is important to see a doctor as soon as possible. Prostate cancer is a serious disease, but it is treatable. The earlier it is detected, the better the chances are for a successful treatment.
What can I do to help increase prostate cancer awareness?
Prostate cancer awareness is important in order to ensure that men get screened and treated early. You can help to increase prostate cancer awareness by talking to the men in your life about the importance of getting screened. In addition, you can support research into new treatments for prostate cancer by making a donation to the Prostate Cancer Foundation or the American Cancer Society.
Prostate Cancer Treatment in Reno, Nevada
Prostate cancer is a serious disease, but it is also a very treatable one. With early detection and treatment, the chances for a successful outcome are very high. By increasing awareness of the disease and encouraging men to get screened, we can help to save lives.
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with prostate cancer, please contact Forsythe Cancer Center in Reno, Nevada to learn what options are available to you.
