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Prostate Cancer Prevention

prostate cancer prevention, prostate cancer treatment, prostate cancer surgery

Can Prostate Cancer Be Prevented?

There is no way to prevent prostate cancer. Risk factors such as age, race, and family history cannot be controlled. But there are some things you can do that can help with prostate cancer prevention.

Body Weight, Physical Activity, and Diet

The effects of body weight, physical activity, and diet on prostate cancer risk aren't completely clear, but there are things you can do that might lower your risk. Some studies have found that men who are overweight or obese have a higher risk of developing advanced prostate cancer or prostate cancer that is more likely to be fatal. Although not all studies agree, several have found a higher risk of prostate cancer in men whose diets are high in dairy products and calcium.

For now, the best advice about diet and activity that can help with prostate cancer prevention is:

  • Get to and stay at a healthy weight.
  • Be physically active.
  • Have healthy eating habits. This includes a variety of colorful fruits and vegetables and whole grains, and avoids or limits red and processed meats, sugar-sweetened drinks, and highly processed foods.
  • It may also be sensible to limit calcium in the diet.

What Are the Symptoms of Prostate Cancer?

Prostate cancer may cause no signs or symptoms in its early stages. If it is more advanced, prostate cancer may cause signs and symptoms such as:

  • Trouble urinating.
  • Decreased force in the stream of urine.
  • Blood in the urine.
  • Blood in the semen.
  • Bone pain.
  • Losing weight without trying.
  • Erectile dysfunction.

What Test Does a Doctor Use to Look For and Diagnose Prostate Cancer?

The PSA blood test is used mainly to screen for prostate cancer in men without symptoms. It is also one of the first tests done in men who have symptoms that might be caused by prostate cancer. PSA in the blood is measured in units called nanograms per milliliter (ng/mL).

Depending on results, the provider may order a prostate biopsy. This is the most accurate test for detecting prostate cancer. It involves taking a tissue sample from the prostate and examining it under a microscope. This can help your doctor determine whether there is an uncontrolled growth of cells in the prostate gland.

What Are My Treatment Options After Being Diagnosed?

Most prostate cancers are found in the early stages when they are growing slowly, so you usually do not have to rush to make treatment decisions. During this time, it is important to talk with your doctor about the risks and benefits of all treatment options and when treatment should begin. This discussion should also address the current state of the cancer.

  • Whether you have symptoms or PSA levels are rising rapidly.
  • Whether the cancer has spread to the bones.
  • Your health history.
  • Your quality of life.
  • Your current urinary and sexual function.
  • Any other medical conditions you may have.

Coping With Treatments and Side Effects

Every cancer treatment can cause side effects or changes to your body and how you feel. For many reasons, people do not experience the same side effects even when they are given the same treatment for the same type of cancer. This can make it hard to predict how you will feel during treatment.

As you prepare to start cancer treatment, it is normal to be afraid. Your health care team will work to prevent and relieve side effects. This part of cancer treatment is called “palliative care" or "supportive care.” It is an important part of your treatment plan, regardless of your age or the stage of disease.