Prostate cancer

Prostate cancer: symptoms, causes and treatment

Prostate cancer is a malignant tumor that develops from the tissue of the prostate glands. It is one of the most common forms of cancer in men, especially those over 50 years of age. Although smoking has been linked to lung cancer, non-smoking men are also at risk of developing prostate cancer.

The prostate, or prostate gland, is an important part of the male reproductive system. It surrounds the initial parts of the urethra and plays a role in the production of seminal fluid and participation in the act of ejaculation. In addition, the prostate affects a man's ability to hold urine.

The causes of prostate cancer are not fully understood, but it is known that the level of the male sex hormone testosterone is associated with this disease. High levels of testosterone in the blood can increase the risk of developing prostate cancer and make it more aggressive. In addition, there are other risk factors, such as old age, heredity, the presence of progressive prostate adenoma, poor environment, working with cadmium and poor diet.

A characteristic feature of prostate cancer is its slow and malignant course. The tumor grows relatively slowly, and the process from the appearance of a microscopic tumor to the final stage of cancer can take many years. However, prostate cancer can metastasize early, spreading to other organs, mainly the lymph nodes, bones, lungs, liver and adrenal glands. This is the main threat in prostate cancer. Once metastases appear, surgical removal is no longer possible and complete cure becomes difficult.

One of the problems with prostate cancer is that symptoms often appear late in the disease, when the chances of a complete cure are reduced. Symptoms may include increased frequency of urination, pain in the perineum, and the presence of blood in urine and semen. However, some patients with prostate cancer may be asymptomatic.

Early detection of prostate cancer is especially important for successful treatment. It is recommended that men over 50 years of age undergo regular medical examinations, including testing the level of prostate antigen (PSA) in the blood and direct rectal examination of the prostate. If prostate cancer is suspected, additional tests such as prostate biopsy, ultrasound, computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging. After confirming the diagnosis, the doctor determines the stage of prostate cancer to choose the optimal treatment method.

Treatment for prostate cancer may include surgical removal of the prostate (radical prostatectomy), radiation therapy, hormone therapy, chemotherapy, or observation without active intervention (watchful waiting). The choice of method depends on the stage of cancer, the general condition of the patient, his preferences and other factors.

Radical prostatectomy is one of the main treatments for prostate cancer. This surgery removes the entire prostate and some surrounding tissue. Radiotherapy is used to destroy tumors using high-energy rays. Hormone therapy aims to lower levels of male sex hormones or block their action, since prostate cancer often depends on testosterone to grow. Chemotherapy is used when prostate cancer has spread beyond the prostate gland.

It is important to note that each case of prostate cancer is unique, and the treatment plan must be tailored to each patient. You should discuss all possible treatment options with your doctor so you can make an informed decision.

In addition to standard treatments, new approaches such as immunotherapy and molecularly targeted therapy are being explored and developed to more precisely target tumors and improve treatment outcomes. However, these methods are still at the research stage and are not widely used in clinical practice.

It is important to remember that prostate cancer is a serious disease and early detection is key to successful treatment. Regular medical examinations and communication with your doctor will help establish a diagnosis and develop the most effective treatment plan if necessary.