Estimated reading time: 5 minutes
The second most common form of cancer in the US, the rates of prostate cancer have been steadily increasing since 2014. The American Cancer Society estimates there will be about 300,000 new cases in 2024. The prostate gland is only found in men, and 1 in 8 men will be diagnosed during their lifetime. Each person's risk can vary based on age, race and ethnicity, and a few other factors. In this overview, PatientsLikeMe will explain what you need to know about the condition and the best ways to stay healthy.
How Common and Dangerous is Prostate Cancer?
Prostate cancer is the second most common cancer in men worldwide. Most cases occur in men over the age of 65, but screening should start as early as 40. Many men with prostate cancer do not die from it. The 5-year survival rate is very high if detected early, but it can be more serious if it spreads to other parts of the body.
There are over 3.3 million men in the United States who have been diagnosed with the condition that are still living today. The death rate has steadily declined since 1993. Since 2013, it stabilized. This is likely due to the rise in cancers being found at a later stage.
What Causes Prostate Cancer?
Prostate cancer is a type of cancer that starts in the prostate gland, which is a small gland in men that makes fluid for semen. The prostate is located below the bladder and in front of the rectum. The exact cause of prostate cancer isn't known. Doctors do know that it begins when cells in the prostate develop changes in their DNA. The changes then lead to multiplication of cells that do not die off, building up into a tumor and spreading throughout the body. Certain factors can increase the risk.
- Age: This is the greatest contributor to an increased risk of prostate cancer. The risk goes up as men get older, especially after age 50.
- Family History: If close relatives have had prostate cancer, your risk is higher. Having a brother or father with the condition more than doubles your chances of getting the cancer.
- Race: For unknown reasons, Black men are more likely to develop prostate cancer than men of other races. It occurs about 60% more often in Black men than white.
- Obesity: There does not appear to be a connection between weight and risk of prostate cancer. It does, however, seem to contribute to developing a more aggressive form of the disease than a lower-grade type.
- Diet and Exercise: Research suggests than high dietary fat may be linked to prostate cancer. A lack of exercise has not been tied to the cancer, but it does often go along with obesity and metabolic syndrome.
Tips for People with Prostate Cancer
Getting this diagnosis can be shocking! There are a lot of changes to your life that will come along with it. Fortunately, there are tremendous resources out there for patient support. With care and attention, you can recover and live a normal life. Here are some tips to keep in mind.
- Follow Medical Advice: Listen to your doctor and follow their treatment plan. This is the most important by far. Strict adherence to medication regimens and lifestyle changes as recommended are the best way to recover.
- Regular Check-ups: Keep all appointments and get regular tests to monitor the cancer. How you treat the condition may change over time. Learn about your condition and treatment options. Ask your doctor questions if you don’t understand something.
- Healthy Diet: Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Limit high-fat foods and red meat. Also try to get vitamins from food sources rather than relying on supplements.
- Exercise: Stay active. Even light exercise can help you feel better and stay healthy.
- Support System: Lean on friends, family, or support groups. Talking about your feelings can help! Many people with the disease report changes in their mood. Staying on top of these and being emotionally vulnerable can help you manage the side effects.
- Avoid Smoking and Limit Alcohol: These can affect your overall health and treatment effectiveness.
Prostate cancer is a common condition in men, particularly as they age. With early detection and proper care, many people live long, healthy lives despite having prostate cancer. We hope you found these tips from PatientsLikeMe helpful. Be sure to stop by for more advice and support!