Prostate cancer and how we care for it
The prostate is a gland in the male reproductive system. It lays below the bladder, is the size of a walnut, and makes fluid that is part of semen.
Prostate cancer is a disease in which malignant cells reproduce in the tissues of the prostate. It is the second most common cancer among men in the United States. About one in every eight men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer. However, the death rate is relatively low (1 in 41).
At an early stage, the first symptom will be a burning sensation or pain during urination. These symptoms often scale into more serious urination problems, such as trouble starting or stopping while urinating, more frequent urges to urinate at night, and even the loss of bladder control.
Other symptoms in a later stage include sudden erectile dysfunction, blood in either urine or semen, pain or stiffness in the pelvis, lower back, ribs, or upper thighs, loss of weight and appetite, fatigue, nausea, and vomiting.
As men age, the prostate grows, which may cause a flow reduction from the bladder and evolve into pain and sexual dysfunction. This condition is called Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia, which means the prostate grows larger than average. It’s essential to acknowledge BPH because its early symptoms are similar to prostate cancers. A doctor can quickly diagnose and cure BPH.
Different treatments are available for patients once prostate cancer is diagnosed:
After prostate cancer has been diagnosed, tests are done to determine if cancer cells have spread to other parts of the body. Cancer cells break away from where they began and travel to nearby areas through the lymph system or blood. When cancer spreads to another part of the body, it is called Metastasis.
Unfortunately, no cure for metastatic prostate cancer has been found, but it has been treatable for quite some time. In the first year, 95% of people will live one year or more after diagnosis. More than 85% will survive past year five, and about 80% of those diagnosed will exceed ten years.
There is no specific technique to prevent prostate cancer. The main reason is that this particular type of cancer is a “disease of aging.” The chances of developing prostate cancer increase with age as hormones in the body weaken or slow down. Race and genetics also play a significant role.
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle can reduce their odds. Even so, some slight life changes may help, such as: Eating fewer calories and exercising more, adopting an anti-inflammatory diet, avoiding smoking, drinking alcohol in moderation, if at all, or reducing stress.
Going through many emotions is a normal part of cancer, whether a person has just been diagnosed, finished treatment, or discovered that cancer has returned. Living with the physical difficulties of cancer is not an easy task for the patient or the family.
At Signature, we have the experience and resources to provide the best level of support for the patient and the family. Our registered nurses may help with most disabling symptoms, such as fatigue or chronic pain.
For more information on how Signature Health Services can help with your healthcare needs, please call 1 (800) 277-8291 or email information@signaturehealthservices.net.
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