Introduction
Prostate cancer is the second most common cancer in men worldwide. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), in 2022, an estimated 1.47 million new cases and nearly 397,000 deaths were recorded worldwide, highlighting its growing public health impact.
In Nigeria, Prostate cancer is the most common and deadliest cancer for men, with 32.8 cases and 16.3 deaths per 100,000 men. The risk increases with age, genetics, and African ancestry, and many men are diagnosed at advanced stages due to low awareness and limited access to screening.
However, evidence shows that early detection and timely treatment substantially reduce mortality, underscoring the need for expanded screening, awareness programs, and equitable access to care.
Risk Factors
- Age: The risk of prostate cancer increases with age. It is most common in men aged 50 years and above.
- Race and ethnicity: Men of African descent have a higher risk of prostate cancer compared to men from other racial and ethnic backgrounds.
- Genetic factors: More than 50% of prostate cancer risk is attributable to genetic factors
- Family history: Having a close blood relative, such as a father, brother, or other immediate family member, who has had prostate cancer increases a man’s chances of developing the condition. Risk is further elevated when multiple relatives across generations are affected.
- Body weight: Being overweight or obese may increase the chance of getting prostate cancer.
- Smoking: Smoking is linked to prostate cancer. Men who smoke have a higher risk of the cancer returning or spreading.
Symptoms of Prostate Cancer
- Difficulty urinating or weak urine flow
- Need to urinate more often, especially at night
- Blood in urine or semen
- Pain in the back, hips, or pelvis
- Erectile dysfunction
- Unexplained weight loss, fatigue
Diagnosis of Prostate Cancer
Prostate cancer may be detected before symptoms develop through screening and diagnostic tests, including:
Digital Rectal Examination (DRE): A healthcare provider gently inserts a lubricated, gloved finger into the rectum to examine the prostate. The presence of hard areas, lumps, or irregular shapes may suggest cancer. Screening for prostate cancer with digital rectal examination (DRE) is not recommended due to poor diagnostic accuracy
Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) Test: The prostate produces a substance called PSA that can be measured in the blood. Elevated PSA levels may be a sign of prostate cancer, although non-cancerous conditions like prostate enlargement or infection can also increase PSA.
Imaging Tests: Scans such as MRI or transrectal ultrasound provide detailed images of the prostate and can identify abnormal areas that may be cancerous. These images help doctors decide whether a biopsy is needed.
Biopsy: A small sample of prostate tissue is taken using a needle and examined under a microscope to confirm the presence of cancer. This test also helps determine how aggressive the cancer is, and genetic analysis of the tissue may guide treatment decisions.
Treatment Options
Treatment depends on the stage of cancer, overall health, and patient preferences. Options include:
- Active surveillance (monitoring slow-growing cancer)
- Surgery (prostatectomy)
- Radiation therapy (external beam or brachytherapy)
- Hormone therapy to lower or block testosterone
- Chemotherapy for advanced disease
- Targeted therapy or immunotherapy
Prevention of Prostate Cancer
You can’t completely prevent prostate cancer, but some steps may help lower risk:
- Improve your diet: Reduce fat intake, eat more fruits and vegetables, add green tea and soy to your diet, and avoid charred meat.
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Regular physical activity
- Stay sexually active: Studies have shown that men who have a higher frequency of ejaculation are up to two-thirds less likely to be diagnosed with prostate cancer.
- Discuss screening with your doctor, especially if high-risk (family history, age)
For further information and to seek counseling with our medical experts, please reach out to us via info@bluepinkcenter.org
Written by Rasheed Sanusi