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Prostate cancer is a common type of cancer and is the fourth most frequently diagnosed cancer among Thai men, particularly the elderly. Most patients are between 60 and 79 years old. Therefore, elderly men should undergo screening for prostate cancer to help prevent its development.
The prostate is a male organ located around the urethra in the pelvic region, beneath the bladder. Its function is to produce a fluid that nourishes and helps transport sperm. The prostate tends to enlarge with age, which can obstruct the urethra and lead to difficulties with urination. This condition is common among the elderly but distinct from prostate cancer.
Prostate cancer develops from abnormal cells in the prostate that divide uncontrollably and rapidly. This can cause obstruction of the urinary tract and damage the normal tissues of the prostate. If not detected early, the cancer can spread to other organs.
The exact cause of prostate cancer is unclear, but it is known to be related to factors such as diet, genetics, and ethnicity. Data shows that the incidence of prostate cancer is nearly five times higher in Europe compared to Asia. However, prostate cancer should not be overlooked in Asian countries like Thailand, where it ranks as the fourth most common cancer among men.
Prostate cancer is indeed considered a dangerous condition because it is a malignant tumor. If left untreated, it can progress to advanced stages where it spreads to surrounding organs or travels through lymphatic or blood vessels to other parts of the body. For example, if the cancer spreads to the bladder, it may cause blood in the urine, or if it spreads to the bones—its most common site of metastasis—the patient might experience severe bone pain and fractures. In cases where the cancer has spread throughout the body, patients may suffer from severe fatigue, rapid and unexplained weight loss, and ultimately, it can lead to death.
As mentioned earlier, prostate cancer results from abnormal cell growth in the prostate, leading to its enlargement. A concerning aspect of prostate cancer is that most patients do not experience symptoms in the early stages, which often results in delayed medical consultation. Symptoms typically become noticeable when the tumor grows and presses on the urethra, causing issues such as:
The following methods are commonly used for diagnosing prostate cancer:
Prostate cancer can be treated using several methods, depending on the stage and characteristics of the cancer:
Additionally, for cases where the prostate is enlarged but not cancerous, treatment may involve reducing the size of the prostate using hot steam (a procedure known as steam therapy). This minimally invasive method involves inserting a needle through the prostate and delivering hot steam to shrink the gland. It does not require general anesthesia and can be performed on an outpatient basis. This approach is beneficial for patients with conditions such as stroke or heart disease, as it does not require long-term discontinuation of blood thinners or antiplatelet medications.
Prostate cancer is commonly found in men over the age of 40, with the likelihood increasing significantly for those over 60. Early detection, even when symptoms are not present, is beneficial as it allows for potentially curative treatment. Recommended groups for prostate cancer screening include:
Screening is often part of annual health check-ups for men over 50 and may include evaluating for abnormalities in the urinary system.
Research on diet and its impact on prostate cancer growth has identified several foods that may help reduce the risk of prostate cancer, including:
Conversely, some foods might increase the risk of prostate cancer, such as:
When diagnosed with prostate cancer, following the treatment plan prescribed by your doctor consistently is crucial. Maintaining a positive outlook is also essential to support the fight against the disease and complete the treatment. Self-care should include:
Although an enlarged prostate is common in older men, difficulty urinating in aging males may not just be a sign of aging but could also indicate prostate cancer. If you or someone you know is at risk, it’s important to undergo prostate cancer screening, particularly checking Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) levels. If there are any abnormalities in the urinary system, consulting a doctor for further investigation is recommended. Early treatment of prostate cancer can be highly effective and offers the best chance for a cure, compared to delaying treatment until the cancer has spread to other organs.
You can consult a doctor from anywhere through video calls.
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