In November, Movember movement raises awareness about men's health , encouraging prevention and early diagnosis of diseases that affect men. Among these, prostate cancer stands out as it is the second most frequent malignant tumor in men. Prostate gland is located just below the bladder, surrounding the urethra. It is responsible for producing part of the seminal fluid. With aging, an increase in prostate volume is common. In most cases, this increase is benign and is called benign prostatic hyperplasia. However, if there is an uncontrolled proliferation of altered prostate cells, prostate cancer may develop. Given its location, when the prostate volume increases, it compresses the urethra and bladder and can cause urinary symptoms. Progression of prostate cancer is variable. Some tumors grow slowly while others are more aggressive and can quicky spread in the body. As with any cancer, the earlier it is diagnosed, the simpler the treatment and more favorable the results. Risk factors for prostate cancer Age over 50 years; Family history of the disease, especially in first-degree relatives (father, brothers); In black people incidence and aggressiveness are generally higher; Overweight and obesity; Sedentary lifestyle; Men with risk factors should consider starting screening earlier . Signs and symptoms to be aware of In the early stages, prostate cancer can be silent, that is, it may not cause symptoms. When it does cause symptoms, these may include, for example: Difficulty starting urination; Weaker urinary stream; More frequent urination; Blood in the urine or semen; Pelvic or lower back pain; Erectile dysfunction. These signs and symptoms do not necessarily mean that you have prostate cancer, but they may be related. Therefore, a urology consultation is justified or seeking for guidance from the doctor responsible for regular health monitoring about what to do . Prostate cancer screening Prostate cancer screening is recommended: From age 50 for men without risk factors; From age 40 when there is a higher risk. The screening strategy is based on: Blood test to determine the PSA (prostate-specific antigen) value; Clinical evaluation of the prostate, including digital rectal examination; If there is suspicion, other medical tests may be requested, for example, a multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging and, when indicated, a prostate biopsy. Treatment options for prostate cancer depend on the stage or stage of the disease and its aggressiveness, and the patient's characteristics and preferences. For example: Active surveillance , with consultations and exams performed regularly, in low-risk cases; Radical prostatectomy ( removal of the prostate ), which is currently performed using minimally invasive surgical techniques, including robotic surgery; Radiotherapy , internal or external Remember that When diagnosed in its early stages, prostate cancer is usually curable. There is no way to prevent prostate cancer. However, taking an active role in our health is the best contribution we can make to early detection : Maintain regular health checkups; Know the risk factors and be aware of the signs; Have a healthy lifestyle; Do not delay screenings, have them at the recommended ages. Because early detection can save lives. Author : João Ferreira Cabral (urology) Meet the urology clinial team from Hospital da Luz network. The content published in the Health Guide is intended for the general public and is provided for informational and educational purposes only. It does not replace individual medical assessment, diagnosis, or personalized clinical advice from a qualified healthcare professional. The content is produced or reviewed by physicians and other healthcare professionals at Hospital da Luz and is based on the knowledge available at the time of publication or the most recent update, as indicated at the beginning of each item.
