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PROSTATE CANCER
SYMPTOMS
There are typically no symptoms in the early stages of prostate
cancer. It is usually found by PSA (Prostate Specific Antigen) blood
tests (PSE is a protein made by prostate cells) and a Digital Rectal
Examination (DRE).
When symptoms do occur, the following may be experienced:
- Slowing of the urinary stream
- Increased need to urinate
- Blood in urine (in advanced cases)
- Impotence (in advanced cases)
- Pain in pelvis, hips, spine, or ribs (in advanced cases)
STAGES
Many physicians use different classifications for staging of prostate
cancer. Following are general staging definitions:
Stage A: Tumor is confined to the prostate. It is usually
too small to be detected with a DRE. Symptoms at this stage are
rare.
Stage B: Tumor has progressed, yet is still confined to the
prostate. It is usually large enough to be detected by rectal examination
or PSA blood testing.
Stage C: Prostate has enlarged and the tumor has spread beyond
the gland and is possibly blocking the urethra at this point. Can
be detected by rectal examination. Symptoms at this time may include
painful urination, need to urinate frequently, and/or blood in urine.
Stage D:
D1 Cancer cells have spread into the pelvic
lymph nodes.
D2 Cancer cells have spread to the bones, organs,
soft tissue, or other lymph nodes.
Symptoms in Stage D usually include weight loss, fatigue, and bone,
back, and/or joint pain, in addition to the symptoms in Stage C.
PREVENTION
Since there is no known cause for prostate cancer, there is no certain
way to prevent it. Most risk factors for developing prostate cancer
can not be changed, such as genetic history and age.
Reducing controllable risk factors may help lower the possibility
or prostate cancer. A low-fat, high-fiber diet, limiting excessive
alcohol consumption, and regular exercise.
Men aged 40+ should have a yearly physical examination which includes
a rectal exam.
TREATMENT
Prostatectomy: Surgical removal of the prostate gland.
Radiation Therapy: High dose x-rays are used to kill cancer
cells. One type of radiation therapy is similar to the type of x-ray
used to locate broken bones. Another type of therapy requires that
a radiation-producing material (radioisoptope) be permanently implanted
in prostate.
B Various methods are used to block the production of androgens
(male hormones) so that hormones will stop "feeding" the cancer
cells, thus minimizing or eliminating the tumor. Some hormonal therapy
methods include introducing estrogen (female hormone) into the male
system; surgical castration (removal of the testes); and medical
castration (synthetic male hormones are injected, rather than removing
the testes)
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