Blue November without taboos: Men, get checked out!
Prostate cancer is the second leading cause of death among men, second only to lung cancer. According to the latest data from the National Cancer Institute (Inca), this type of cancer kills one man every 38 minutes, affecting 28.61% of the male population.
But what exactly is the prostate?
The prostate is a gland located in front of the rectum. Its function is to produce prostatic fluid, which is a component of semen, protecting, nourishing, and helping to transport sperm. In young men, the prostate is about the size of a walnut, but it grows larger as men age.
It is not known for certain what causes mutations in the genetic code of cells, leading to the development of prostate cancer. However, certain factors may contribute, including: being over 65 years of age, having a family history of the disease, having Lynch syndrome, and occupational exposure to toxic substances.
It is important to remember that obesity is a risk factor for prostate cancer and can also worsen the condition. In addition, men of African descent may be at higher risk of developing this type of cancer.
Poor dietary choices play a significant role in increasing the risk of developing this disease. Be especially mindful of excessive consumption of processed foods, food colorings, added sugars, and other seasonings. It is recommended to eat more vegetables and adopt healthy habits, such as regular physical activity.
Although prostate cancer does not cause symptoms in its early stages, there are signs that indicate something is wrong, such as:
. Difficulty urinating
. Weak urine stream
. Delay in the onset and completion of urination
. Blood in the urine or semen
. Needing to urinate more often than usual during the day or at night
But don’t panic! These symptoms are cause for concern, but they don’t necessarily mean you have prostate cancer. To confirm or rule out any concerns, it’s essential to consult a urologist or proctologist.
The diagnosis of the disease is based on the results of clinical examinations (digital rectal exam) and a blood test for prostate-specific antigen (PSA). Both are quick and painless. If the specialist notices changes in the prostate, small samples are taken for laboratory analysis (biopsy).
This warning is relevant because, according to the National Health Program (PNS), men visit the doctor less often than women. For this reason, the Lado a Lado pela Vida Institute launched the “Blue November” campaign in Brazil in 2011. The goal is to raise awareness among men about health care and the importance of routine checkups.
The earlier prostate cancer is diagnosed, the better the chances of a cure with less invasive treatments. That’s why there’s nothing better than prevention—by scheduling routine checkups and undergoing the tests your doctor recommends. There’s nothing more valuable than life. Take care of yourself!
Sources: