Prostate cancer (prostatic gland carcinoma) – C61

Prostate cancer currently affects up to 70% more men than in the 1990s. Besides lung cancer, skin cancer and colon cancer, it is the most common cancer in men in developed countries. Every year there are 670,000 newly diagnosed cases. The risk of the disease increases with age above 60, and about 95% of all cases are aged over 80.

Causes

The risk of prostate cancer is clearly associated with age, it affects primarily men aged over 60, but numbers of younger patients are rising. Genetic factors play some part, so a close relation to a patient affected with prostate cancer (father or brother) increases the risk up to twofold. One of possible causes is a hormonal imbalance of the male sex hormone testosterone. A significant but modifiable factor is an unhealthy lifestyle – smoking, diet high in fat, excess consumption of alcohol, lack of exercise. The risk of the disease is related to the immune system; if weak, it may stimulate malignancy.

Signs and symptoms

Early stages are usually asymptomatic, often, they are revealed accidentally when different problems are being assessed. The disease may be identified due to elevated levels of prostate-specific antigen (PSA); however, high levels may also suggest hyperplasia (thickening) or prostate inflammation. Apart from general symptoms, more advanced tumors may be associated with a lack of appetite, weight loss, fatigue, and problems with urination; a frequent need to pass urine is typical including urination at night or urinary retention, and rarely, blood in urine may appear. Along with metastases usually in bones, back pain or hip and limb pain are added.

Preventing prostate cancer

In order to detect cancer or other benign changes in time, men over 40 are recommended to attend annual examinations of the prostate that are done per rectum (via anus). Health is definitely worth the momentary discomfort. Often, boosting the immune system is underestimated, yet it plays a major role in combating the unwanted tumor growth.

Impact of the immune system on prostate cancer

Elevated PSA levels (Prostate-Specific Antigen) may indicate a malignant or benign prostate disease. If PSA levels increase (it may be due to a physical activity or prostate manipulation – necessary to limit prior to examination), the immune system should be strengthened to reinforce the fight against cancer cells. The immune system is a primary factor behind health, its promotion leads to a timely restoration of immunity, and prevention of cancer.