Prostate cancer is said to be the next most common cancer among men after lung cancer. As man ages, his possibility to acquire this disease also increases. According to the Department of Health (DOH), 19.3 percent of every 100,000 Filipinos are affected by prostate cancer and it is the third leading cause of death in the Philippines. Thus, the DOH recognized this as an alarming rate and declared the month of June every year as Prostate Cancer Awareness Month to disseminate more public information, increase patient empowerment and encourage men to be screened for this disease.
So, what is Prostate Cancer and how men can prevent this disease?
Prostate cancer is a type of cancer that develops in the prostate gland – the small walnut shaped gland in the pelvis of men that produces the seminal fluid that nourished and transport sperm. Usually, prostate cancer grows slowly and may need minimal treatment but there are other types that are aggressive and can spread quickly. During its early stage, prostate cancer may not show signs or symptoms, but prostate cancer that is already on its advanced stage shows symptoms such as bone pain, having trouble in urinating, decreased force in the stream of urine, shows blood in the urine and semen, swelling in the legs or feet, weight loss and fatigue, changes in bowel habits, feeling discomfort in the pelvic area and erectile dysfunction. If you happen to see or experience any of these signs, you should see a doctor immediately to consult for proper treatment.
Treatment for prostate cancer depends on its cancer stage and severity. To prevent this disease from advancing to late stages, it is recommended to take standard screening tests such as Digital Rectal Exam (DRE) and prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test. There’s no proven measure for prostate cancer prevention yet, but you may reduce your risk by exercising and making healthy food choices like low-fat diet. Studies say that men who take the highest amount of fat each day had an increased risk of prostate cancer. Limit the amount of fatty foods you consume such as meats, nuts, oils and dairy products and increase intake of fruits and vegetables each day. Fruits and vegetables are rich in vitamins and minerals that are believed to reduce the risk of prostate cancer. You also need to maintain the ideal body weight and have daily exercise. Men who are overweight or obese may also increase their risk of acquiring prostate cancer. Exercise for at least 30 minutes three to five times a week to maintain a healthy weight.
Most men nowadays have poorer knowledge and lack of awareness on prostate cancer and its risks that resulted to worsening of their disease since early screening is not being practiced. Remember that for any disease, if screened and detected earlier, the possibility of the disease to be treated is higher. Aside from screening, observing a healthy lifestyle and choosing a healthy and well-balanced diet is another effective way to avoid prostate cancer.
Let us all spread awareness on this disease and help every JUAN protect themselves against the threat of prostate cancer.
NO I Angelica O. Pajulas
