General Information About Prostate Cancer
Prostate cancer, the most common type of cancer in men, is a disease that can arise from various causes. Prof. Dr. Ali Ulvi Önder, Head of Urology at Near East University Hospital, emphasizes that various risk factors are influential in the development of prostate cancer. He states that family history, environmental factors, and individual habits play significant roles in the onset of this disease.
For men with a genetic background, the risk of prostate cancer increases significantly. For instance, an individual whose father has been diagnosed with prostate cancer has a risk factor that is 2.2 times higher, while this figure rises to 3.4 times for those with cancer in a sibling. The risk is 5.1 times higher for men who have two first-degree relatives with prostate cancer.
Risk Factors and Preventive Measures
Prof. Dr. Önder indicates that one of the primary risk factors for prostate cancer is fat consumption. In particular, excessive intake of unsaturated fats is directly related to obesity and the risk of developing malignant cancers. Additionally, smoking, red meat, and animal fat consumption also increase prostate cancer risk, while substances like lycopene found in tomatoes have potential cancer risk-reducing properties.
Regular health check-ups and lifestyle changes can help reduce the risk of prostate cancer. Specifically, omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamins D and E are reported to have positive effects on prostate health.
In addition to the PSA test, which is an important method for early diagnosis of the disease, a prostate biopsy is also necessary for a definitive diagnosis. Prof. Dr. Önder states that a biopsy is triggered by the results of a prostate exam and PSA testing.
PSA Test and Screening Recommendations
It is recommended that individuals with a family history of prostate cancer undergo regular PSA testing starting at age 40. The prevalence of prostate cancer and its increasing incidence with age make this test crucial. Prof. Dr. Önder emphasizes that all men should undergo the PSA test and DRE (Digital Rectal Exam) screenings starting at age 50.
Patients should remember that even if they show no symptoms, there may still be cancer present in their prostates. Early diagnosis can make a significant difference in the course of the disease.
Diagnosis and Treatment Process
The definitive diagnosis of prostate cancer is made through a pathological examination of the tissue obtained from a prostate biopsy. Currently, this biopsy is typically performed with the aid of ultrasound through the rectum, and multiple samples are sent to the laboratory. If the biopsy results indicate prostate cancer, the treatment plan is determined according to the stage of the disease.
Methods that can be applied in the treatment of prostate cancer include monitoring, radiation therapy, and surgical intervention. In early-stage patients whose cancer is confined to the organ, monitoring may be preferred over treatment, while in more advanced stages, surgical and combination therapies take precedence. Radiation therapy and hormonal treatment are among the commonly used methods, especially in locally advanced stage diseases.
Source: www.yeniduzen.com
