Men's health: Protect that prostate

Prostate cancer occurs in the prostate gland. The prostate is about the size of a walnut found just below the bladder. Its main role is to produce fluid that carries sperm and surrounds the urethra, the tube for carrying urine and semen. Prostate cancer causes cells in the prostate to multiply uncontrollably, leading to cancerous tumours.

Localised, or early, prostate cancer is when the cancerous cells have grown but have not yet spread to other parts of the body. Advanced prostate cancer occurs when the cancerous cells spread to surrounding areas of the prostate or metastasized, where it spreads further in the body².

The exact cause of prostate cancer is not known, but some factors can increase your risk such as age, genetics, and family history. Knowing your risks can help with early detection and play a huge role in managing the condition.

Age is the biggest risk factor when it comes to men and prostate cancer. The chances of a prostate cancer diagnosis increases as you get older, particularly over the age of 50. That is why regular health checks can help detect any changes early so you can receive timely treatment.

Family history, ancestry and race can also play a role in your risk of prostate cancer. One study showed that men of African ancestry have more genetic and biological factors that influence their risk of developing prostate cancer. While the inherited genetic factors on their own have a small effect on the risk of prostate cancer, when combined with the other 183 genetic factors, it substantially increases risk when compared to Asian and European men³.

It is recommended for men with African ancestry to start screening for prostate cancer from the age 40, especially if they have had previous family members diagnosed with prostate cancer. If there is more than one male relative with prostate cancer, the risk could be five times higher⁴.

It can sometimes be difficult to talk about health issues openly, which is why Movember provides a timely reminder to check in with your family about their health, and any family health risks or history you should be aware of.

While age and family history/genetics are not within your control, other factors that can impact your risk of prostate cancer, can be. More research is needed into the connection between lifestyle, diet and prostate cancer, but having a balanced diet and active lifestyle may help to reduce your risk of developing prostate cancer as well as providing other mental and physical health benefits⁵.

Prostate cancer often does not cause noticeable symptoms – making it even more dangerous as it can go undetected for months. But, as the condition progresses you may experience:

• Urinary problems such as frequent urination, weak urine flow or blood in the urine
• Erectile dysfunction
• Pain or discomfort in the pelvic area⁶.

Prostate cancer is treatable, especially when detected at an early stage as it allows for timely treatment and better health outcomes. It is highly recommended to have annual health screening with your local GP or health professional when over the age of 50, or from 40 if there is a family history of prostate cancer.

1. Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) test

This is a blood test which measures the level of PSA (a protein made in the prostate) in the blood. As a rule, the higher the PSA level in the blood, the more likely a prostate problem exists⁷. But there are other factors that could contribute to this, including certain medical procedures, medications and infections. For this reason, your doctor may also carry out a digital rectal exam test for a better sense of your overall prostate health.

2. Digital Rectal Examination (DRE)

The DRE is a physical exam used to help your doctor feel for changes in your prostate. During this test, the doctor feels for an abnormal shape, consistency, nodularity, or thickness in the gland⁸. Together, the PSA and DRE can help to detect prostate cancer early before it spreads.

While these tests may be uncomfortable, screening for prostate cancer regularly with your doctor will detect any changes early, assess any potential symptoms or areas of concern, and provide the opportunity to discuss any specific needs for additional screenings where necessary.