Urologist on Prostate Cancer

An acceptable fact is that there are more than 25 types of prostate cancer. Also, there is a higher number of myths associated with the medical condition. In fact, many people end up losing their recovery or prevention process because they give up early. The reason for their despair is that they see no possibility of dealing with the disease as they consider it fate. This article dismisses some of the common myths regarding prostate cancer.

Myth 1: This is a senior man’s disease

Far from the truth, prostate cancer can affect people of any age. It is only that most of the victims are older than 65 years. The explanation for this is that older people also have a higher risk of suffering from other medical conditions. Another consideration is that it is only 65% of seniors who get positive diagnosis annually, which implies that there is a sizeable 35% of the population that also needs to pay attention the condition.

Myth 2: You must have the symptoms of prostate cancer to have the disease

Unlike other diseases that require symptoms to diagnose, cancer is a progressive medical impairment that requires constant surveillance. Besides, not all men will experience the same symptoms even though they could all be suffering from the same disease. Routine check-ups offer the best options to find out more regarding the development of cancer while it is in its infancy. Moreover, some symptoms that associate with cancer can also be due to other conditions. They include lower back or upper thigh pains, weak flow of urination, difficulty in having an erection and blood in the semen.

Myth 3: "I am not at risk because it is not in my family."

Although family genetic conditions can influence the prevalence of the disease, the genetics are not 100% responsible. They represent one of the many factors that lead to the growth of prostate cancer. There is still the fact that 1 in 6 men are at risk of getting the disease.

Myth 4: If the PSA test result is negative, you do not have cancer

Unfortunately, the PSA does not test cancer. It tests the prostrate-specific antigen in the prostate. A positive or negative PSA test result can be due to some problems in the prostate that may not necessary be cancer. For example, a simple inflammation of the prostate, also known as, prostatitis could cause a positive test result. Thus, cancer testing and monitoring require additional steps involving a physician’s diagnosis. Having the PSA test as part of the health insurance is good, but also including cancer diagnosis is a better deal.

In conclusion, this article presented four myths to consider when dealing with information about prostate cancer. In reality, early management of the condition is the best precaution.