Prostate cancer is one of the most common types of cancer among men around the world. According to statistics, it is classified as the second most common type of cancer after lung cancer, and the fifth in terms of death rate after lung, liver, colon, and stomach cancers.
St. George’s University School of Medicine in Grenada shares a set of basic steps that men should follow to protect their health and prevent disease.
Early screening
Men may not realize they have prostate cancer in its early stages; Because it often develops slowly, and a long period may pass before any obvious symptoms or problems appear, such as difficulty urinating or pain in the pelvic area.
Therefore, men over the age of 40, especially those who have a family history of prostate cancer, are advised not to wait until symptoms appear, but rather take the initiative to undergo early medical examinations to increase the chances of successful detection and treatment if the disease is present.
Understand the screening options available
There are several tests available that help detect prostate cancer, the most prominent of which is the Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) test, which is a blood test that measures the level of this protein. Its high level may indicate the possibility of prostate cancer. However, protein levels can also be elevated due to non-cancerous conditions, such as urinary tract infections or benign prostatic hyperplasia.
Digital rectal examination (DRE) is another option, which is a quick clinical examination that helps the doctor detect any changes in the prostate gland.
Maintain physical activity
Regular exercise, such as brisk walking, cycling, or swimming, helps reduce the risk of advanced prostate cancer, so men are advised to engage in physical activity for 30 minutes a day to maintain physical fitness, a healthy weight, and improve general health, which are factors that help regulate hormones in the body.
Follow a healthy diet
A balanced diet plays an essential role in preventing disease and in the recovery phase as well. St. George’s University recommends the following:
– Eat at least 5 servings of fruits and green vegetables daily (one serving of fruit is equivalent to a piece, and one serving of vegetables is equivalent to half a cooked cup).
– Include starchy foods such as rice, pasta, bread and potatoes in the diet.
– Replace processed meat with healthy protein sources such as fish and legumes.
– Reduce high-fat dairy products and limit processed or unhealthy foods.
Quit smoking
Daily habits play a major role in influencing the probability of developing cancer. Smoking, in addition to its association with heart disease and other health problems, studies indicate a link between it and prostate cancer in its advanced stages. Therefore, men are advised to see a doctor to obtain the necessary support and guidance to quit smoking.