Prostate Cancer
What is Prostate Cancer?
Prostate cancer is a cancer of the prostate gland, found in the male reproductive system. The prostate gland secretes the fluid that nourishes and assists in the mobility of sperm.
Although it's possible to not experience any symptoms, most symptoms are apparent during urination. Examples include the inability to maintain a stream of urine, urinary retention and excessive urgency to urinate at night. Non-urinary symptoms of prostate cancer include; bone pain, painful ejaculation, and a loss of appetite.
Diagnosis of Prostate Cancer
Prostate screening tests help test for prostate cancer even if there aren’t any symptoms. There are two types of prostate screening tests; Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) Blood Test, and Digital Rectal Examination (DRE).
Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) Blood Test
PSA is a protein that is produced by cancerous and non-cancerous tissue in the prostate gland. The concentration of PSA in the blood serves as an indication to Dr de Jager of whether or not someone is at risk of being diagnosed with prostate cancer. A high concentration of PSA indicates a higher risk of being diagnosed with prostate cancer.
Digital Rectal Examination (DRE)
A DRE is a test whereby Dr de Jager will examine the prostate through the rectum. Dr de Jager will be able to determine if there are any abnormal changes to the thickness or shape of the prostate. DREs can't detect or diagnose prostate cancer. However, they serve as a pre-emptive measure to test for any abnormalities, and to see if a PSA blood test would be necessary.
Treatment for Prostate Cancer
The treatment of prostate cancer depends on the severity and stage of cancer. Dr de Jager will recommend a treatment method that is the most suitable for you, taking into consideration your overall health and personal preference. Early-stage cancer treatments include; surgery to remove the prostate gland (prostatectomy), and Radiation therapy - the use of high energy rays to eradicate the cancer cells.
As cancer grows, it can spread to other parts of the body. If cancer spreads or recurs after remission, you may require a more profound treatment. Advanced cancer treatments include Chemotherapy to kill cancer cells and hormonal therapy which inhibits or reduces the number of androgens (male hormones) produced, to delay or stop the growth and spread of cancer cells.