Life & Work

What you must know about prostate cancer

health

Photo/File Treatment is available locally.

My father had prostate cancer, does it mean I will also get it?

No, it does not. Although you have a higher chance of getting prostate cancer than usual, it is not automatic that you will get it.

Does prostate cancer affect children?

Usually, no. Prostate cancer is one that generally affects adult males over the age of 50 years.

Are there other prostate problems that may present like cancer?

Yes, there are. In men above 55, the most common condition is known as BPH (benign prostate enlargement).

This is when the prostate becomes big but it does not have cancer. It often gives urination problems.

Another issue that may give cancer-like symptoms is prostatitis (Infections of the prostate).

Does BPH increase my chances of getting cancer?

Having BPH does not increase or reduce your chances of getting prostate cancer.

What happens during prostate cancer screening?

Screening involves a physical examination and checking blood PSA levels. PSA is a substance produced by the prostate. It is one of the tests used to check for prostate cancer.

How often should I have prostate cancer screening?

This is a highly individual choice that depends on your personal risks.

In the early stages, prostate cancer may be symptomless therefore, it is paramount to have regular check-ups from the age of 40. During these check-ups, discuss with your doctor how to go about the issue of prostate cancer screening.

Can my PSA levels go up even if I do not have cancer?

Yes, they can. PSA levels can also go up if you have an infection of the prostate, BPH and for a short while after ejaculation and riding a bicycle.

Can prostate cancer be prevented?

Currently, there are two drugs (finasteride and dutasteride) which have been found to offer some protection against prostate cancer.

These are available locally and are usually used for BPH. You can discuss with your doctor whether this is a viable option for you.

Is there a prostate cancer vaccine?

The vaccine being worked on currently is not available for commercial use yet. It is still undergoing clinical tests to determine whether or not it is safe.

Can I have my healthy prostate removed since I fear getting cancer?

This is a common question from men with a family history of prostate cancer.

Removing a healthy prostate is a very radical procedure which most surgeons will not accept to do.

This is because we have available screening tests which would enable you to detect prostate cancer in its early stages.

How long does prostate cancer therapy take?

This depends on how advanced the cancer is. Most people need several months of therapy.

However, all patients need life long follow-up.

Can alternative medical treatments be used for prostate cancer?

Currently, none of the alternative therapies such as herbal medicine, aromatherapy, hydrotherapy and acupuncture have been proven to treat prostate cancer.

Some herbal medications have even been found to lower PSA levels making it difficult to detect the cancer.

Does removal of the prostate lead to erectile dysfunction?

After removal of the prostate (prostatectomy) you will notice changes in your sexual function.

These include erectile dysfunction and low libido. These can, however, be managed with the help of your doctor.

Does eating red meat increase my chances of getting the cancer?

Although, still under research, men who have high intake of red meat and high fat products with low intake of fruits and vegetables have been found to have increased incidence of prostate cancer. The exact reason is not known.

Does alcohol intake also increase my chances of it?

Currently there is no evidence supporting this.

Are there vitamin supplements I can take to help reduce my chances of getting cancer?

A lot of research has gone into this, but nothing has been conclusively found to be of any benefit.

What lifestyle changes can I make to help reduce my chances of getting this cancer?

Eat healthier (more fruits and vegetables and less animal fat), quit smoking and exercise to reduce obesity.

Many people are going abroad for treatment, is there none available locally?

Although not all prostate cancer therapy is available locally, most of it is. We also have trained urologists and cancer specialists in the country.

They are, however, very few and located only in select hospitals.

We, however, do not have sub-specialist doctors currently in our country (a prostate cancer specialist surgeon) as is the case in some countries abroad.

In terms of cost, some countries such as India can offer relatively cheaper therapy than Kenya.

Is there a prostate cancer support group in Kenya?

Yes. Faraja’s Prostate Cancer Support Group, the Kenya Cancer Association and the African Cancer Foundation are all resources available for people living with prostate cancer in Kenya.

This cancer need not be an enigma. No man in Kenya needs to die from it. Have regular check-ups and seek early treatment as part of your personal plan to eradicate it from your life.

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