Learn About Prostate Cancer

- Before It’s Too Late

Next to lung cancer, prostate cancer is the second biggest cancer killer among American men. It's also the most commonly diagnosed cancer type in the United Kingdom and the United States.

But despite being labeled a major killer of men, 96% of the male population still knows nothing about the prostate gland. In fact, it's a fact that women know more about men's health than men do themselves.

Now why do you think that is?

Does it have anything to do with men finding it awkward to discuss such topics because such talk is considered un-macho?

Probably. Most boys have been taught early on to act tough and never cry. They consider displaying concern over their health as unnatural.

For example, does this story sound familiar to you?

"When John’s prostate woes started, he knew practically nothing about that part of his anatomy. Yes, he represented one of the ignorant 96 percent. He didn't bother learning about it since it never occurred to him that he would have such prostate problems. Furthermore, as far as John was concerned, the word ‘prostate’ alone made him uneasy, seeing as it's the gland that has a role in both going to the toilet as well as sex. Luckily, it was not yet too late when John started to encounter prostate problems…"

Don’t let it be ‘too late’ or 'too embarassing' for you either and start learning about prostate cancer now.

Prostate Education

Cancerous cell growth in the prostate gland is what causes prostate cancer.

What happens is that some of the cells making up the prostate gland escape their normal growth controls and begin dividing, growing and spreading uncontrollably. When in its advanced state, the disease can present symptoms similar to those of Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH).

While early prostate cancer doesn't exhibit any symptoms, when it does occur, it usually includes symptoms linked with passing water - such as finding it difficult to either hold back or actually start, excruciating pain whilst going to the toilet, the need to go frequently, interrupted flow and potentially blood in your waters. Another symptom is stiffness in the hips, upper thighs and lower back.

It could be cancer or just a minor health problem like Prostatitis (infection) or BPH that's causing any of the above symptoms. Only a doctor will be able to accurately determine what is wrong. Consulting with one upon experiencing these symptoms is best.

Besides cancer, the two other common prostate problems are BPH and Prostatitis. The first refers to abnormal benign prostate cell growth. An enlarged prostate keeps getting bigger, pushing against the bladder and urethra and blocking your regular flow. Prostatitis concerns prostate infection and inflammation. This can be temporary or long-term.

Prostate cancer treatment will depend on the extent of damage the disease has caused. If it's small and confined within the gland, it is treatable with radiotherapy (can be external or brachytherapy), hormone therapy or surgery.