If you are wondering whether you or a loved one has prostate cancer, you’ve come to the right place. There are several risk factors for the disease, including diet, hormones, and sexual activity. But what exactly is prostate cancer? What can you do to lower your chances of developing it? Read on to learn more. A high-fat diet may increase your risk of getting it, while a diet rich in fruits and vegetables may lower yours. Prostate cancer is more common in North America and northwest Europe than in other parts of the world. Inflammation of the prostate may also play a role in developing the disease. Another risk factor is sexually transmitted diseases. Supplements, such as lycopenes, may help reduce PSA levels and prevent the damage of cancer cells.
The best way to fight prostate cancer is to understand your risks and symptoms, and to learn about your treatment options. Ask your doctor for a second opinion, and communicate with your care team. A multidisciplinary team, comprised of specialists in medical oncology, radiation, and surgery, can help you make informed decisions. The team will consider the advantages and disadvantages of each option, and will guide you toward the best treatment plan based on your unique needs.
Screening for prostate cancer is different in different parts of the world. While most cases occur in North America, European countries, Australia, and the Caribbean, prostate cancer is rare in Africa, Asia, and Central and South America. Some researchers believe that diet and family history may play a role in screening differences. However, it’s still not clear if diet is a risk factor or not. Eating a diet high in dairy products, smoking, and other chemicals may also be risk factors for prostate cancer.
While you can use the questionnaire to talk to your doctor about your symptoms, it’s better to know how likely you are to develop the disease. It is estimated that one in eight men will develop the disease. Age and ethnicity are risk factors as well. Prostate cancer is an incredibly dangerous condition, and should be treated as early as possible. When you find a lump, your doctor will perform a biopsy and check for signs of advancing cancer.
After the prostate is removed, your urinary tract and bladder will be repaired. A catheter may be inserted through the urethra during the recovery process. After the surgery, one or two suction drains may remain in the pelvic cavity. These drains remove fluid and help reduce the risk of infection. Before discharge, the surgeon will review the final pathology report and discuss your next steps with you. The surgery is typically performed under general anesthesia.
When you’ve undergone a biopsy, you may also undergo chemotherapy. This procedure uses drugs to kill cancer cells. The drugs are taken by mouth, but they also are injected directly into a vein or muscle. Because these drugs are absorbed into the bloodstream, they can reach cancer cells throughout the body. Another treatment, called photodynamic therapy, is targeted therapy. This treatment uses drugs to target cancer cells, but it does cause side effects.
