Prostate cancer: from prophylaxis to treatment
About the importance of the prostate or prostate, one of the components of the male reproductive system, men themselves are often not sufficiently informed. The prostate is responsible for many functions, from testosterone production, the male hormone to the pleasant sensations that a man experiences during sex. Having learned about the diagnosis of prostate cancer, a man faces a serious test both physiologically and psychologically. Therefore, for every man, not waiting for a mature age (and problems with the prostate gland from its inflammation to adenoma – benign tissue proliferation and cancer, start after 45-50 years), it is important to know and follow methods of preventing male diseases. And in the case of a serious diagnosis already made, take full responsibility and begin treatment.
Preventing is always easier than curing: urology advice
According to experts, the degree of sexual activity does not affect the development of prostate cancer itself. However, susceptibility to the disease is determined by the concentration of androgens – that is, the male sex hormones in the blood serum and the functioning of the sex glands. Diagnosis of prostate cancer in the early stages significantly increases the chances of complete recovery, – this helps elementary preventive examinations.
Doctors say that the most informative in terms of detecting prostate cancer is a comprehensive examination: a digital examination, an ultrasound scan of the scrotum (prostate), a blood test for a specific PSA antigen – the so-called tumor marker. Why so much research? Then, in the very first stages, prostate cancer does not bother the man, and the violation of their male functions causes a weak erection, a decrease in ejaculation, problems with urination, etc. man writes off on age changes. Therefore, for men aged 50+, it is important to visit a urologist (andrologist) for prophylactic purposes at least once a year. These diagnostic methods do not take much time, do not require large financial costs and are available in most clinics.
If the doctor has detected a tumor, it is important not to panic and move on.
If at the time of diagnosis a specialist suspected a tumor, then it is necessary to determine its nature. To do this, a prostate biopsy is performed with a study of a tissue sample taken: this diagnostic method will not only refute or confirm the diagnosis, but also determine the extent of the disease. If the diagnosis is confirmed, the doctor will prescribe additional studies – computed tomography, in order to have a complete picture of the disease and prescribe the most effective treatment.
First, it is important to know that prostate cancer can be cured in a timely manner. Even if the diagnosis is confirmed by different methods of research, and you do not feel any symptoms, it is dangerous to procrastinate, the disease will develop further. Therefore, it is important to tune in to treatment, which, depending on the degree of the disease, will be offered by the doctor.
Modern technologies for the treatment of prostate cancer
Modern medicine doesn’t stand still: if previously traditional prostatectomy was performed for prostate cancer, which requires long-term rehabilitation, today radiosurgery is possible. Thus, one of the main tools in the treatment of prostate cancer has become Cyberknife, a radio-surgical system that allows and cuts not only remove the tumor, but also preserve the male function.
