When it comes to sexual matters, it is essential for everyone to pay attention. Some individuals may find it scandalous but let us be truthful; discussing sex is no longer considered taboo. Men, in particular, should be encouraged to engage in conversations about it, especially when it pertains to their health.
For example, I have previously heard that excessive sexual activity or complete inactivity can contribute to the risk of prostate cancer. However, since I have not had a doctor clarify this for me, I have never fully accepted it as true.
Now, there is news circulating on social media indicating that males who are sexually inactive are at a higher risk of developing prostate cancer.
The source of information was Dr. Rudney James E. Velasquez, the Men’s Health Medical Coordinator at the Davao City Health Office (CHO). Talking during the ISpeak Media Forum, he explained that it is necessary to use hormones or reduce their levels in the body to help balance testosterone levels and facilitate the release of older prostate fluids.
But that sex or lack of it is just one of the causes. Genetics, hereditary factors, or the transmission from parents to children significantly influence the likelihood of developing prostate cancer, Dr. Velasquez pointed out.
Aside from genetic predisposition, age and lifestyle choices, particularly obesity, are also major contributors to the increased risk of prostate cancer.
June is Prostate Cancer Awareness Month. Dr. Velasquez reported that the number of individuals diagnosed with prostate cancer is on the rise. As such, he encouraged men to consult a doctor at an earlier stage for early detection or to undergo annual physical examinations, especially those aged 50 and above.
“Men aged 50 and above should get checked or screened for possible developments in their prostate. These tests can be performed at the health centers,” Dr. Velasquez said.
The CHO provides free digital rectal exams for prostate cancer detection, which Dabawenyos can access at their district health centers. The digital rectal exam is a medical procedure utilized to evaluate the prostate, rectum, and anus for any irregularities.
Prostate cancer remains one of the most common forms of cancer in males in the country, according to data released by the Department of Health.
“Prostate cancer is the third most common cancer in men and fifth most common cancer in the general population,” said Dr. Jun Ruiz, a gastroenterologist diplomate in Gastroenterology American Board of Internal Medicine. “Prostate cancer comprises 5% of all cancer diagnosis in the Philippines.”
The prostate is a part of the male reproductive system, which includes the penis, prostate, seminal vesicles, and testicles.
“The prostate is a separate organ; it is positioned just beneath the bladder and it surrounds the urine tract where urine passes through when we urinate,” explained Dr. Enrique Ian S. Lorenzo, head of the urology-oncology program of The Medical City. “Its function is to produce special fluid whose function is to liquify semen. So, it has some role in fertility.”
As a man ages, the prostate tends to increase in size. The normal prostate in a young adult man is about the size of a walnut.
“Prostate cancer is a relatively silent disease in its early stages,” says Dr. Josefino Castillo, surgeon and head of St. Luke’s Medical Center Institute of Urology in Global City.
Dr. Lorenzo agrees. “The misconception of patients is that I don’t feel anything so it means I don’t have it. But the thing is, with prostate cancer when it is early you really don’t have symptoms. Totally nothing,” he says.
However, in the later course of the disease, some symptoms may arise. The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) said that if you have any of the following symptoms, be sure to see your doctor right away: difficulty starting urination, weak or interrupted flow of urine, urinating often (especially at night), trouble emptying the bladder completely, pain or burning during urination, blood in the urine or semen, pain in the back, hips, or pelvis that doesn’t go away, and painful ejaculation.
“Keep in mind that these symptoms may be caused by conditions other than prostate cancer,” the CDC reminded.
So, how will you know you have prostate cancer? According to Dr. Castillo, there are “ways to screen even asymptomatic patients for the disease, to catch the disease in early stages and prevent progression.”
The CDC said there is no standard test to screen for prostate cancer. However, there are two tests that are commonly used to screen for prostate cancer: prostate specific antigen (PSA) test and digital rectal examination (DRE).
A blood test called a prostate specific antigen (PSA) test measures the level of PSA in the blood. PSA is a substance made by the prostate. The levels of PSA in the blood can be higher in men who have prostate cancer. The PSA level may also be elevated in other conditions that affect the prostate.
“Patients who are between 45 to 75 years old or those with a family history of cancers and prostate diseases are highly recommended to undertake PSA tests and consultations with a urologist to avoid any potential progression of prostate cancer,” the St. Luke’s Institute of Urology suggested.
Meanwhile, DRE is a test to check the prostate gland for any problems or signs of cancer. It involves inserting a gloved, lubricated finger into the rectum to feel the prostate. The doctor will look for any abnormalities, such as hardness, lumps, or irregular shape. The DRE is not a completely accurate test, as it cannot feel the whole prostate or detect all cases of cancer.
