Prostate Cancer: Early Detection Saves Lives

Talking about prostate health can be uncomfortable topic for men (or the women in their lives), but it’s one that should never be ignored. Especially when early detection of prostate cancer can make all the difference!

The prostate gland is part of the male reproductive system and is about the size of a walnut. It sits below the bladder and wraps around the top of the urethra, the tube that carries urine out of the bladder.

Prostate cancer is the most common cancer among men, with nearly 1 in 5 being diagnosed by the age of 85. Despite these numbers, early diagnosis dramatically improves outcomes, so knowing your risk and taking action is crucial.

The good news: early diagnosis is key

Prostate cancer often grows slowly, and even the more aggressive cases tend to progress at a slower rate than other cancers. Thanks to advancements in screening techniques, survival rates have dramatically increased. In fact, over 95% of men diagnosed early, live for at least five years post-diagnosis, and many go on to live healthy, full lives well beyond that. Early detection and action truly make a difference.

Who’s at risk?

The exact cause of prostate cancer remains unknown, but these factors may increase the risk of developing it:

• Age – over 90% of prostate cancer diagnoses occur in individuals aged 55 and over.
• Family history –
• if your father or brother had prostate cancer before age 60, your risk is doubled.
• there is increasing evidence linking certain genes with prostate cancer. For example, men from families with BRCA1 and BRCA gene mutations (the genes linked to breast and ovarian cancers in women) have an increased risk of developing prostate cancer.
• Race – men of African American descent are at a higher risk.
• Geographic and demographic factors – men in rural and Indigenous populations face higher risks and lower survival rates, emphasising the importance of accessible care.

There is also evidence linking high testosterone levels to prostate cancer risk. If you’re concerned about any of these factors, now is the time to start a conversation with your doctor or pharmacist.

What to look out for

Early prostate cancer typically doesn’t show symptoms, and advanced cases may also be asymptomatic. When symptoms do occur, they are often linked to non-cancerous conditions like benign prostatic hyperplasia, an enlargement of the prostate gland.

However, possible symptoms of prostate issues include:

• Frequent or urgent urination
• Blood in urine or semen
• Weak or intermittent urine flow
• waking up at night to urinate
• Feeling of incomplete bladder emptying
• Unexplained weight loss
• Bone pain, especially in the neck, back, hips, or pelvis

While these symptoms may not necessarily indicate prostate cancer, it is important to consult with a doctor if they are persistent or concerning.

Diagnosis

There isn’t any one specific method to detect prostate cancer. Two commonly used tests are the simple Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) blood test, and a physical exam through the rectum.

Don’t let fear or embarrassment stop you—getting tested could be one of the smartest health decisions you make. If you’re unsure where to start, chat with your GP or WholeLife Pharmacy & Healthfoods pharmacist about your risk today.

Treatment options

If diagnosed, treatment may include active surveillance (keeping a close watch), surgery, radiation, or even hormonal therapy. But as mentioned before, a large percentage of men diagnosed go on to live long and healthy lives.

Supporting someone with prostate cancer

Supporting someone with prostate cancer can be challenging and emotionally taxing. If you are caring for a loved one with this condition, various resources and support systems are available. The Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia’s booklet, Understanding Prostate Cancer for Partners and Families can provide valuable information and guidance.

While a prostate cancer diagnosis can sound daunting, catching it early often leads to positive outcomes. So, take this as a sign that it’s time to chat to your doctor or WholeLife Pharmacy & Healthfoods pharmacist about your prostate cancer risk, or encourage your loved one to go! Know the risks, talk to your health professional, and embrace regular testing as a crucial part of staying healthy.

References:

1. https://www.prostate.org.au/risk-and-symptoms/facts-figures/
2. https://cancerqld.org.au/get-support/cancer-information/types-of-cancer/prostate-cancer/
3. https://cancer.org.au/cancer-information/types-of-cancer/prostate-cancer
4. https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/benign-prostate-hypertrophy