It’s common for men to think, “Nah, I’ll never get prostate cancer.” You may believe this because the prospect of developing prostate cancer seems so remote. After all, how many men in their thirties or forties do you know who has it? While this is understandable, it does not reduce prostate cancer risk, the most deadly and common cancer among men in Nigeria.
Prostate cancer is a type of cancer that affects the prostate gland, a small gland that produces seminal fluid, a component and source of nourishment for sperm. During ejaculation, the prostate muscles push the seminal fluid through the urethra.
Prostate cancer symptoms include the following:
- A sluggish stream of urine.
- Back, hip, and/or pelvic pain.
- Starting and maintaining urination is difficult.
- Urge to urinate frequently, especially at night.
- There is blood in the urine or sperm.
- Urination or ejaculation is painful.
There are two major risk factors for prostate cancer:
Age:
You should be aware that the risk of developing prostate cancer increases after the age of 35. After the age of 50, this risk skyrockets. Approximately 60% of men diagnosed with prostate cancer are 65 or older.
Family History:
Prostate cancer appears to be inherited in some families. Having a nuclear relative with prostate cancer, such as a father or brother, raises your chances of getting it. The risk is increased if a brother or multiple relatives have prostate cancer and it occurred at a younger age.
While risk factors frequently influence the likelihood of developing cancer, the majority do not directly or solely cause cancer. Some people who have all risk factors may never develop cancer, and the majority of people who have prostate cancer have none of the risk factors.
“It is better to be safe than sorry” when it comes to cancer in general. This means that you should consult a doctor about the possibility of developing prostate cancer, especially if you are at risk based on the factors listed above.
Once you reach the age of 35, you should begin getting screened for prostate cancer with the Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) test or with a Digital rectal Examination on a regular basis, every 2 to 3 years.
