Understanding Prostate Diseases That Threaten Quality of Life.

Let's delve into a health issue that poses a threat to men entering their senior years – prostate diseases. Common symptoms include urinary difficulties such as hesitancy, weak stream, nocturia, incomplete emptying, and urgency. When these symptoms arise, suspicion of prostate abnormalities should be considered. In this article, we will explore two prominent prostate diseases – prostate cancer and benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) – in detail.

 

Roles and Major Diseases of the Prostate

The prostate is a male reproductive organ that provides nutrients to sperm and aids in their movement. However, as men age, the prostate may enlarge, causing benign prostatic hyperplasia and leading to urinary issues. Other conditions affecting the prostate include prostate cancer, chronic prostatitis, and overactive bladder.

 

Prostate diseases are significant health issues for men.

 

Symptoms and Incidence of BPH and Prostate Cancer

Benign prostatic hyperplasia is a common condition, affecting 70% of men in their 70s, primarily attributed to aging and male hormones. In contrast, prostate cancer often remains asymptomatic in its early stages and, as it progresses, exhibits symptoms similar to BPH. It is becoming increasingly prevalent, particularly in Western societies, where it ranks among the most common cancers in men.

 

Causes and Prevention of Prostate Diseases

Benign prostatic hyperplasia is influenced not only by aging and male hormones but also by genetic factors, chronic illnesses, and a Westernized diet. Prostate cancer is affected by age, family history, male hormones, and dietary habits. To prevent these conditions, increasing fruit and vegetable intake, regular exercise, and weight management are essential.

 

Importance of Diagnosis and Early Treatment

Early detection is crucial for prostate diseases. Since prostate cancer may not exhibit symptoms in its early stages, men over 50 should undergo annual prostate-specific antigen (PSA) tests and digital rectal exams (DRE) to monitor prostate health. Regular check-ups are vital, as early diagnosis can lead to successful treatment in many cases.

 

Treatment Options and Lifestyle for Prevention

Drug therapy is effective for BPH, while surgery should be carefully considered. For prostate cancer, robot-assisted radical prostatectomy is recommended, and for advanced cases, hormone therapy, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy may be considered.

 

Lifestyle Habits for Prostate Health

Since aging and male hormones are direct contributors to prostate diseases, direct prevention may be challenging. However, regular exercise and a proper diet can significantly contribute to maintaining a healthy prostate. Particularly, tomatoes rich in lycopene and legumes containing isoflavones may aid in preventing prostate cancer.

 

Summing Up the Symptoms of Prostate Diseases

Lastly, let's review the eight main symptoms of prostate diseases: weak stream, nocturia, incomplete emptying, urgency, hematuria, dysuria, acute urinary retention, and urinary incontinence. If these symptoms occur, seeking immediate medical consultation and undergoing tests are crucial.

 

Prostate diseases are significant health issues for men. It is crucial to prevent and detect them early through regular check-ups and adopting a healthy lifestyle. To live an appropriate life in the era of well-being, awareness and concern for prostate health are indispensable.