Could genetic mutations cause prostate cancer? Yes and no. Prostate cancer is not hereditary, but some men are more likely to develop it if they inherit a particular mutation in BRCA1, BRCA2 or ATM genes. Mutations in PALB2 and RAD51D are also associated with hereditary prostate cancer. However, there is no definitive evidence that these mutations cause prostate cancer. So, how can it be prevented?
While radiation is often the primary treatment for prostate cancer, it is also sometimes given after surgery. The goal of radiation is to relieve bone pain associated with the prostate cancer surgery. The risks of radiation include incontinence and impotence. Radiation to the pelvis may also be used if PSA levels increase after surgery. Therefore, it is important to discuss your treatment options with your doctor and get a second opinion. However, you should keep in mind that radiation does have a limited number of side effects.
Some men may experience no symptoms at all when diagnosed with prostate cancer. Others, however, may experience urinary symptoms such as dribbling urine, difficulty starting urination, or blood in the urine. A change in weight or general signs of illness may also be a sign of prostate cancer. If any of these symptoms sound familiar, you should seek medical attention. A biopsy is needed to confirm the diagnosis. If the symptoms are a sign of prostate cancer, see your doctor immediately.
Treatment for prostate cancer depends on the stage of the disease. Early detection is key to the success of treatment. Active surveillance is the most effective way to combat prostate cancer, as it allows doctors to avoid invasive treatments. Prostate cancer often develops slowly and may take years to manifest. Fortunately, doctors can monitor the development and progression of a tumor by using blood tests and prostate-specific antigen testing. And if diagnosed early, treatment can bypass the risk of recurrence, resulting in shorter treatment time.
Diagnosing prostate cancer is not easy. There are a variety of symptoms that could be related to other health problems. Symptoms can be caused by other prostate problems. If a physician suspects cancer, he will perform a physical exam to rule out other medical conditions. A biopsy can only confirm if the cancer is present in the prostate, but many other conditions can cause high PSA levels. A biopsy results take about one week, and the diagnosis is often made quickly.
Following treatment for prostate cancer can be stressful, but it is crucial to manage any side effects that you may experience. A healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables, an active social life, and regular physical exercise are all recommended for the long-term health of cancer patients. The aim of chemotherapy is to slow the growth and spread of cancer cells, so that the patient’s quality of life remains stable. It is also essential to follow up with regular tests to monitor the progression of the disease.
A testicular prosthesis is another option to improve a man’s sex life. Surgery for prostate cancer may cause incontinence. However, this side effect is usually temporary and will go away after the operation. Surgical options may also include nerve-sparing procedures, which protect the nerves. If prostate cancer has spread to the lungs, men can experience chest pain or shortness of breath. A testicular prosthesis is also available to men with erectile dysfunction after the surgery.