Prostate cancer has become one of the most prevalent health hazards among men over the years. The risk of developing prostate cancer in men increases considerably as men age, and almost 60% of cases are found in men aged above 65 years. Therefore, speaking to your doctor about PSA screening is always recommended as soon as you enter middle age. According to the statistics from the government, there were approximately 42000 prostate cancer cases in 2020, which is now likely to increase to over 47000 cases by 2025 in India.
What is Prostate Cancer?
Cancer starts to develop when cells begin to grow uncontrollably in any part of the body and spread to other areas of the body. The prostate gland is found only in men and produces a fluid that is part of semen. The prostate is located below the bladder (the organ where urine is stored) and in front of the rectum (the part of the intestines).
Prostate cancer is developed when DNA in prostate cells forms mutations that disable cells to stop growing and dividing. In most cases, these cells are attacked by the immune system, and they die. When mutated cells get saved from the immune system, they grow uncontrollably and form prostate tumours. However, prostate cancer causes are not clear yet but understanding the risk factors with help you take precautions to reduce the risk of prostate cancer.
Most Common Risk Factors of Prostate Cancer
There is always a risk factor that makes someone more likely to develop cancer over time. Even though risk factors commonly influence the likelihood of getting cancer, most of them do not cause it. People can get cancer owing to a variety of risk factors, some of which are included below:
Age- Prostate cancer is uncommon in men before age 40, but the risk rises sharply after age 50. Men over 65 make up about 6 out of 10 prostate cancer instances.
Diet- Males who consume diets rich in meat and high-fat dairy products also appear to consume fewer fruits and vegetables. It is uncertain which dietary risk factors—high animal fat or low levels of fruits and vegetables—contribute more.
Obesity- Obesity puts you at risk of many health conditions. Those who are overweight are usually at high risk of developing prostate cancer.
Consumption of Excessive Calcium- Some epidemiological studies suggest that excessive intake of calcium and dairy products increases the risk of prostate cancer.
Family History- Mutations that cause prostate cancer are usually inherited in some cases. If you have a family history of prostate cancer, you are at high risk of developing cancer.
What Causes Prostate Cancer?
Prostate cancer is prevalent among older men. According to a survey, six out of ten men over 65 have prostate cancer, and 1% of cases are found in men under 50. Although doctors don’t know the exact cause of prostate cancer, they suggest that poor dietary habits, a sedentary lifestyle, age, family history and obesity could trigger the risk of prostate cancer in men. Those who consume red meat and other animal fat sources cooked at high heat risk of developing advanced prostate cancer. Therefore, it is more prevalent in countries where meat and dairy products are their everyday diet than in countries consuming healthy food.
However, the underlying factor that connects diet and the prostate is possibly hormonal. Fats are known to stimulate testosterone production and other hormones, leading to prostate cancer growth. High testosterone levels could also trigger dormant prostate cancer cells.
Also, research suggests chain smokers are at greater risk of developing prostate cancer.
Symptoms of Prostate Cancer
You may not experience the signs or symptoms of prostate cancer at an early age. Below mentioned are the symptoms you may experience when the cancer is at an advanced stage-
- Blood in the urine
- Blood in the semen
- Bone pain
- Painful urination
- Trouble passing urine
- Decreased force in the stream of urine
- Unexplained weight loss
- Pain in the hips, back or pelvis
- Erectile dysfunction
How to Prevent Prostate Cancer Naturally?
You can’t change the risk factors like age and family history, but you can definitely take preventive measures to lessen the risk of prostate cancer. Below are the useful preventive measure that you can follow to stay safe-
Maintain a Healthy Weight
Prostate cancer might become more aggressive when a person is obese. Reducing weight and keeping it off as you age will help lower your risk of cancer and other health issues.
Follow a Healthy Diet
Consume low-fat food, including fruits and vegetables, add green teas and soy milk to your routine and follow a healthy diet regime. Doctors also recommend adding vitamin D supplements or a vitamin D rich diet to protect yourself from prostate cancer.
Quit Smoking
Smoking harms every organ in your body. If you plan to quit smoking today, you will definitely lower the risk of developing prostate cancer and many other health risks.
Limit Alcohol Consumption
Drinking regularly and limitlessly could put you at risk too. So, if you drink, do it sparingly. According to research, red wine offers antioxidant qualities that may benefit your health.
Exercise Regularly
Exercise helps battle some of the negative health impacts of a sedentary lifestyle, lower inflammation, and boosts immunological function, in addition to assisting you in achieving a healthy weight—all of which can help prevent cancer. Also, being physically active with your partner help lower the chances of cancer.
Also Read: Cancer Treatment Cost In India: Important Things You Need to Know
Does Healthcare Plan Cover Prostate Cancer?
Nobody would want to get prostate cancer, not even in their wildest dreams. Nonetheless, modern living has increased men’s risk of getting prostate cancer.
In addition, while the risk of contracting prostate cancer has greatly increased, the cost of treatment has skyrocketed over time. Medical expenses deplete a man's life savings when spending on hefty hospital bills. So, it is essential to implement a thorough health insurance strategy by buying a health insurance policy for cancer and staying protected against the financial burden that cancer treatment brings. Care Health Insurance’s cancer insurance protects you financially against significant types of cancer such as breast cancer, prostate cancer, cervical cancer, etc.
Disclaimer: Please verify the policy details and coverage with the official policy documents. Also, kindly consult a professional medical expert to verify the details of health concerns.
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