September is Prostate Cancer Awareness Month

September is Prostate Cancer Awareness Month.

Prostate cancer is the abnormal growth of cells in a man’s prostate gland. The prostate sits just below the bladder. It makes part of the fluid for semen. In young men, the prostate is about the size of a walnut. As men age, the prostate usually grows larger.

Prostate cancer is common in men older than 65. It usually grows slowly and can take years to grow large enough to cause any problems. As with other cancers, treatment for prostate cancer works best when the cancer is found early. Often, prostate cancer that has spread responds to treatment. Experts don’t know what causes prostate cancer, but they believe that your age, family history (genetics), and race affect your chances of getting it.

According to the Canadian Cancer Society of Canada, one in nine men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in their lifetime. This September alone, during Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, it is estimated that more than 1,900 Canadian lives will be forever changed by the words, “You have prostate cancer.”

But people affected by prostate cancer don’t have to face their diagnosis alone the Canadian Cancer Society of Canada says.

“Together, we can create a world where no one fears prostate cancer by funding Canada’s most promising prostate cancer research and life-changing support programs,” the Canadian Cancer Society of Canada stated. “This month, there are many ways to get involved and make a difference in the lives of those affected by the disease.”

What are the symptoms?

Prostate cancer usually doesn’t cause symptoms in its early stages. Most men don’t know they have it until it is found during a regular medical examination. When problems are noticed, they are most often problems with urinating. But these same symptoms can also be caused by an enlarged prostate. An enlarged prostate is common in older men.

See your doctor for a checkup if:
o You have urinary problems, such as:
 Not being able to urinate at all.
 Having a hard time starting or stopping the flow of urine.
 Having to urinate often, especially at night.
 Having pain or burning during urination.
o You have difficulty having an erection.
o You have blood in your urine or semen.
o You have deep and frequent pain in your lower back, belly, hip, or pelvis

For more information click here.

Arthur@lakelandconnect.thedev.ca