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Prostate Cancer: A Preventable Disease
Unfortunately, prostate cancer may go undetected due to the slow-growth and symptom-free nature of the disease as most men would not know they are suffering from it. Also since prostate cancer affects older men, most men by then die of other causes such as cardiovascular disease, hypertension or old age. The cancer is often detected through the physical symptoms of pain and discomfort, biopsies after physical examinations or through PSA testing (Prostate Specific Antigen). PSA is a protein produced by the prostate gland in minute quantities in normal men. It is produced in order to liquify the semen and allow the sperms to swim easily. Excess presence of it can indicate a prostate cancer or prostate-related disorder. The PSA can be measured by a blood test but the effectiveness of this detection method is still under question as the test is not deemed accurate enough at present. Cause, Treatment and Prevention Genetics seems to play an important role. Men who have a relative suffering from prostate cancer are twice as likely to suffer from the disease. It is also more common in African men and the death rates are higher. Age is another factor since the disease affects men in their late 40s and 50s. Younger males are unlikely to be affected by prostate cancer. Diet containing Vitamin B6, Vitamin E, Selenium and Lycopene (present in tomatoes) may help prevent prostate cancer. Interestingly, men on Vegetarian diet were shown to have a lower risk of developing prostate related disorders. Men who consume more green leafy vegetables are deemed to be at lower risk of developing the disease. Consumption of hydrogenated fats and high blood cholesterol levels also increases the risk. Increased intake of multivitamins (exceeding the daily recommended dose in pill form) has been linked to increased risk along with high intake of alcohol. Men who are obese are also at a higher risk than men who are of normal weight. Frequency of Ejaculation is also linked to a decreased risk of prostate cancer. Studies show that men who ejaculated 5 times a week were less prone to developing prostate cancer later in life. The emphasis is on ejaculation and does not necessarily involve actual intercourse. Regular Exercise is considered essential and may lower the risk as it helps maintain a healthy circulatory system. Prostate cancer is highly treatable if detected in early stages. Men who are in their 40s should have regular medical check-ups to increase the chances of early detection. Living a balanced and healthy lifestyle may reduce your risks of developing this disease. Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com www.betterhealthliving.blogspot.com Emma cann is passionate about health related issues and enjoys writing informative articles. She holds a Diploma in nutritional Science and diets, and is currently studying advance Biological Sciences. |
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