Are you worried about prostate cancer?
All men have good reason to be worried, as prostate cancer is the second most common type of cancer in men, with over 50,000 new diagnoses made every year in the UK. In this blog post we’ll be looking at the various methods used to diagnose prostate cancer and the role of MRI scans and PSA tests. We hope that by increasing your understanding of prostate cancer, you will feel empowered to make informed choices about your health.
Overview of Prostate Cancer – what it is and how it affects men
Prostate cancer arises when cells in the prostate grow abnormally, with the potential to invade or spread to other parts of the body. Prostate cancer is a serious form of cancer that affects the prostate, a male reproductive gland located between the bladder and rectum. In 2020, more than 441,000 deaths worldwide were caused by prostate cancer- making it one of the leading causes of death in men. The risk of developing prostate cancer increases as men age and risk factors can include diet, family history and genetic mutations in certain genes. When caught early enough, treatment options can vary depending on what stage prostate cancer is at – ranging from active surveillance to surgery.
Symptoms of Prostate Cancer
Early prostate cancer may not be associated with any symptoms. However, typically prostate cancer symptoms involve issues with urination such as increased frequency or increased urgency to go to the bathroom. Alongside these urinary issues, prostate cancer can cause pain in the lower back, hip or thighs as well as erectile dysfunction.
Diagnosis Methods for Prostate Cancer – MRI, PSA Test, Biopsy
MRI and PSA tests have become essential tools in diagnosing prostate cancer. An MRI scan offers the advantage of being able to detect if there are any abnormalities in the internal anatomy of the prostate, making it a helpful tool for correctly diagnosing prostate cancer. In some patients, the MRI may also negate the need for a biopsy, reducing the risk associated with this method of testing. In addition, the Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) blood test is currently the best way to detect early stages of prostate cancer – this can often be key in accurately diagnosing and treating the condition in time, reducing harm or severity of progression.
Diagnosing Prostate Cancer Earlier – screening tests
Early diagnosis of prostate cancer has many benefits, including improved patient outcomes and increased treatment options. Screening tests, such as a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), are important tools to help diagnose early signs of the disease. By proactively screening for the early signs, patients can be diagnosed sooner and have more treatment choices available, including potentially curative treatments, with associated increased survival rates. Early detection reduces the risk of progression and facilitates timely proactive interventions, potentially improving life expectancy for those affected. It’s important for men to have an annual prostate check to ensure early diagnosis and identification of prostate cancer.
All in all, it is important to know the facts about prostate cancer and to be aware of symptoms that can indicate the disease. Early detection is crucial in combating prostate cancer, as treatments have a much greater success rate when commenced early. Thankfully, there are numerous ways to diagnose prostate cancer such as MRI and PSA tests. Moreover, men should look into attending routine screen tests, as this will allow them to take control of their health and diagnose any diseases earlier. To ensure continued good health for yourself, organise regular check-ups with your doctor and pay attention to any changes or new experiences in the body; if you’re worried about anything, don’t hesitate to seek help from a medical professional. Your health should always be a priority, so take this opportunity today and make sure you protect your future self!
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