Prostate Cancer: Symptoms, Screening, and Treatment at Besta Polyclinic
Introduction
Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers affecting men worldwide. Yet, many are unaware of its symptoms, the importance of early screening, and the available treatment options. Early detection plays a crucial role in managing prostate cancer effectively, and this is where Besta Super Specialized Polyclinic comes into the picture. As the first specialized cancer center under Besta, they provide comprehensive cancer care, including advanced diagnostic services and cutting-edge treatments. In this article, we’ll walk you through the key symptoms of prostate cancer, the importance of regular screenings, and the treatment options available at Besta Polyclinic.
What Is Prostate Cancer?
Prostate cancer occurs when cells in the prostate gland, a small walnut-shaped organ responsible for producing seminal fluid, grow uncontrollably. While it typically affects older men, prostate cancer can develop in younger men as well. Understanding the disease is the first step toward prevention and early detection.
Prostate Cancer in Tanzania
In Tanzania, prostate cancer is becoming more prevalent, but awareness remains low. Many men discover they have prostate cancer in its later stages, when treatment becomes more challenging. This makes regular screenings essential for early diagnosis.
Symptoms of Prostate Cancer
While some men with prostate cancer show no symptoms, others may experience signs that suggest an issue. Recognizing these symptoms can prompt you to seek medical attention early on, which can significantly improve treatment outcomes.
1. Difficulty in Urination
One of the earliest signs of prostate cancer is trouble urinating. This may include:
- A weak or interrupted flow of urine.
- Frequent urination, especially at night.
- Difficulty starting urination or holding back urine.
2. Blood in Urine or Semen
The presence of blood in the urine (hematuria) or semen can be alarming and may indicate prostate issues, including cancer.
3. Pain or Discomfort
Pain or discomfort in the pelvic area, hips, thighs, or lower back can also be a sign of prostate cancer, especially if the cancer has spread beyond the prostate gland.
4. Erectile Dysfunction
Men with prostate cancer may experience difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection.
5. Unexplained Weight Loss
If you experience sudden, unexplained weight loss, it could be due to advanced prostate cancer or other serious health issues.
The Importance of Prostate Cancer Screening
Regular screening is essential for early detection, particularly because prostate cancer often has no early symptoms. Early screening helps catch the disease before it spreads and becomes more difficult to treat.
1. When Should Men Start Screening?
Men are advised to start screening for prostate cancer at age 50, or earlier if they are at higher risk. Men of African descent, those with a family history of prostate cancer, or individuals with certain genetic mutations may need to start screening earlier.
2. Screening Methods for Prostate Cancer
Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) Test
The PSA test is a simple blood test that measures the level of PSA, a protein produced by the prostate gland. Elevated PSA levels can indicate prostate cancer or other prostate-related conditions.
Digital Rectal Exam (DRE)
In this exam, a doctor checks the prostate for abnormalities by feeling it through the rectum. While it may be uncomfortable, it is a quick and effective screening tool.
Advanced Diagnostic Services at Besta Polyclinic
At Besta Polyclinic, the PSA test is often combined with other advanced diagnostic techniques, such as ultrasound, to ensure a thorough examination. Their state-of-the-art diagnostic services, including MRI, CT-Scan, and digital X-ray, provide accurate and early detection of prostate cancer.
Diagnosis and Staging of Prostate Cancer
1. Biopsy
If a PSA test or DRE indicates a potential problem, a biopsy may be required. During this procedure, tissue samples from the prostate are collected and examined under a microscope to confirm the presence of cancer.
2. Imaging Tests
Once cancer is confirmed, imaging tests like MRI or CT-Scan, available at Besta, are used to determine the stage of the cancer and whether it has spread to other parts of the body.
3. Grading and Staging
The aggressiveness of prostate cancer is graded using the Gleason score, and its spread is staged using the TNM system (Tumor, Node, Metastasis). These factors help doctors decide the most appropriate treatment plan.
Treatment Options for Prostate Cancer at Besta Polyclinic
Besta Super Specialized Polyclinic offers a range of treatment options for prostate cancer, depending on the stage and grade of the cancer.
1. Active Surveillance
For men with low-risk prostate cancer, active surveillance may be an option. This involves regular monitoring through PSA tests and DREs to track the progression of the cancer without immediate treatment.
2. Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy uses high-energy rays to target and kill cancer cells. Besta Polyclinic offers advanced Radiotherapy services, which can be used either as a primary treatment or after surgery to reduce the risk of recurrence.
External Beam Radiation Therapy (EBRT)
Besta offers EBRT, where radiation is delivered from outside the body to target the prostate cancer cells.
Brachytherapy
Brachytherapy involves placing radioactive seeds directly inside or near the tumor in the prostate, minimizing exposure to surrounding healthy tissues.
3. Chemotherapy
For advanced prostate cancer that has spread to other parts of the body, chemotherapy may be recommended. Besta provides Chemotherapy treatment using powerful drugs to destroy rapidly growing cancer cells.
4. Hormone Therapy
Prostate cancer cells rely on male hormones like testosterone to grow. Hormone therapy works by lowering the levels of these hormones or blocking their effects, slowing down the progression of the cancer.
5. Surgery
In some cases, surgery to remove the prostate gland (prostatectomy) may be required. This is usually recommended for early-stage cancer that has not spread beyond the prostate.
Minimally Invasive Surgery at Besta
Besta Polyclinic utilizes minimally invasive techniques to reduce recovery time and complications for prostate cancer surgery, ensuring patients can get back to their normal lives faster.
Besta Polyclinic’s Comprehensive Cancer Care
Besta Polyclinic doesn’t just stop at treatment. Their holistic approach includes cancer screening, diagnosis, treatment, and aftercare.
1. Palliative Care Services
For patients with advanced prostate cancer, Besta offers palliative care to manage symptoms, improve quality of life, and provide support to patients and their families during challenging times.
2. Multidisciplinary Team
The cancer care team at Besta includes specialists from various fields—oncologists, radiologists, surgeons, and more—ensuring a well-rounded and personalized treatment plan for each patient.
3. Support for Patients and Families
Besta provides counseling and support services for prostate cancer patients and their loved ones, helping them navigate the physical and emotional challenges of cancer diagnosis and treatment.
Preventing Prostate Cancer: Lifestyle Changes
While some risk factors for prostate cancer, such as age and genetics, cannot be controlled, adopting a healthy lifestyle can lower the overall risk.
1. Healthy Diet
Eating a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains while reducing red and processed meat intake can help support prostate health.
2. Regular Exercise
Staying physically active improves overall health and may reduce the risk of prostate cancer.
3. Maintain a Healthy Weight
Obesity is linked to an increased risk of aggressive prostate cancer. Maintaining a healthy weight through diet and exercise is important for prevention.
Conclusion
Prostate cancer is a serious yet treatable disease, especially when caught early. Besta Super Specialized Polyclinic is at the forefront of cancer care in Tanzania, offering comprehensive diagnostic and treatment services for prostate cancer. From screenings like PSA tests and ultrasounds to advanced treatments such as radiotherapy and chemotherapy, Besta ensures that patients receive top-notch care tailored to their needs. If you or a loved one are at risk, don’t hesitate to seek screening and advice from the experts at Besta Polyclinic.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What are the early warning signs of prostate cancer?
Early signs may include difficulty urinating, blood in urine or semen, and pelvic pain. However, many men with prostate cancer have no symptoms at all.
2. How often should I get screened for prostate cancer?
It’s recommended that men start prostate cancer screening at age 50, or earlier if they are at higher risk.
3. Is prostate cancer curable?
Yes, prostate cancer is highly treatable, especially if detected early. Treatment options range from active surveillance to surgery and radiotherapy.
4. What role does diet play in preventing prostate cancer?
A healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables may reduce the risk of prostate cancer. Limiting processed foods and red meat can also contribute to better prostate health.
5. How does Besta Polyclinic support prostate cancer patients?
Besta Polyclinic offers a multidisciplinary approach to prostate cancer care, including diagnostic services, treatment options like radiotherapy and chemotherapy, and palliative care for advanced cases.
Most Commented