There are several ways to diagnose prostate cancer. A biopsy is the most common test, and it uses a hollow needle to obtain tissue samples from the prostate. The procedure is generally performed with local anesthesia. Once the tissue samples are examined, a pathologist determines if they contain cancer cells. The earlier it is detected, the better the prognosis. The sooner the disease is detected, the better chance there is of living a long and disease-free life.
In addition to a healthy diet, men with prostate cancer should engage in physical activity. Specifically, they should focus on a regular exercise program and engaging in regular physical activity. Regular exercise helps maintain an overall healthy weight and reduces prostate cancer risks. Prostate cancer can also cause difficulties passing urine. An enlarged prostate is often referred to as benign prostatic hyperplasia and is not necessarily cancer. If you experience problems passing urine, your doctor may suggest a surgical procedure called a bilateral orchiectomy.
For those who don’t want to undergo chemotherapy or who are at high risk of developing side effects, a doctor may recommend hormonal therapy. Regular PSA tests and imaging tests may be used to monitor the spread of cancer and detect any signs of recurrence. Some prostate cancer medicines may be prescribed in conjunction with surgery or radiation. Ask your doctor to discuss these options with you. A multidisciplinary team is an excellent way to determine the right treatment for your situation.
However, undergoing a surgical procedure to remove the prostate is not without risk. There are several potential side effects of surgery and radiation, such as incontinence and leaking stool. The side effects of radiation are minimal and will subside after the procedure. However, if you choose to undergo radiation, you must be prepared for potential sexual side effects, including impotence and loss of erectile function. You should also consult other doctors if you’re unsure about your treatment options.
If you’ve already undergone surgery or radiation, you may be able to avoid a recurrence of your cancer. In fact, many people treated with surgery or radiation are cured of their condition. But some men will eventually develop biochemical recurrence after treatment, in which case, they don’t have symptoms or any other issues at all. In these cases, delaying treatment may be the best option for those who’d rather delay treatment and monitor the signs of an onset of symptoms.
Once a tumour has formed in the prostate, it may grow to invade nearby tissue. If it has already spread, the cancer cells may break off and travel to other parts of the body. Once prostate cancer has spread to these distant organs, it’s known as metastatic disease. This kind of cancer usually has to be diagnosed early. And the earlier you detect it, the better the chance of surviving. But if you are diagnosed with prostate cancer, it is important to seek treatment right away.
