A medical expert has highlighted the red flags of prostate cancer while warning that the ‘silent’ disease may not exhibit outward symptoms. Prostate cancer remains a significant cause of mortality among men in the UK, with Prostate Cancer UK reporting approximately 48,000 new diagnoses annually, equating to about 129 cases each day. Dr. Silvia Slavikova advises all men over 40, especially those with a family history of the disease, to undergo regular check-ups.
Dr. Slavikova emphasised the importance of being vigilant for any bodily changes and promptly seeking advice from a GP. Common warning signs of prostate cancer include an increased frequency of urination, both during the day and at night, a slow or interrupted urine flow, and a lingering sensation of needing to urinate even after finishing. It’s crucial to note that these symptoms can also be indicative of an enlarged prostate, which is common in older individuals and not always a sign of cancer.
Notably, prostate cancer can be asymptomatic in its early stages, reinforcing the necessity for all men over 40 to have a PSA test, particularly those with a family history of the disease. The NHS advocates that prostate cancer typically doesn’t manifest symptoms until it grows to a size that affects the urethra, the tube responsible for conveying urine from the bladder. A PSA test, measuring prostate-specific antigen levels in the blood, can be conducted at local medical facilities.
Treatment options for prostate cancer encompass radiotherapy, hormonal therapy, and surgery, such as radical prostatectomy involving the complete removal of the prostate. An emerging alternative favoured by some patients is proton therapy, a precise treatment where positively charged particles target the tumour area without passing through the body, minimising collateral damage. Dr. Slavikova notes that proton beam therapy boasts a success rate of up to 97% and offers additional benefits like reduced erectile dysfunction risk and shorter recovery times.
Moreover, the NHS operates proton therapy treatment centres at The Christie Hospital in Manchester and University College London, although prostate cancer patients are not routinely treated at these facilities. Proactive screening, early detection, and informed decisions regarding treatment options are vital steps in combatting prostate cancer and improving patient outcomes. Men are encouraged to prioritise their health by staying vigilant, seeking medical advice promptly, and engaging in regular screenings, ultimately contributing to better cancer management and survival rates.