Prostate cancer is a very common cancer, after skin cancer. In case anyone around you is diagnosed with the same, you need to take proper care. Secondly, you need to collect as much information as possible and educate yourself to the fullest. Given below are some questions and their answers regarding prostate cancer. Discuss them whenever you visit a health professional.
What is prostate cancer?
Basically, it occurs in the prostate of a man. This gland is located below the bladder and surrounds the urethra. Prostate helps in proper regulation of bladder and controls it. Moreover, it also helps in producing seminal fluid and also transports as well as nourishes sperm. This cancer is very common among men.
What are the common causes?
The cause hasn’t been known yet. However, many risk factors contribute to this problem. One of the main factors is age.
What are the signs?
If one is in the early stage of prostate cancer, there won’t be any signs or symptoms. One needs to get a DRE, i.e, Digital Rectal Exam or a PSA test to get that diagnosed.
When should you test?
Testing early is definitely beneficial. However, men need to discuss risks and value of testing with the doctor as early as possible. Medical history needs to be discussed. Treatment and screening are very essential; however, there are side effects as well. All these things must be done in consultation with good cancer professional.
Should I go to an oncologist of a urologist?
There are various types of doctors treating this condition. These include urologists, radiation oncologists, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists and surgical oncologists. Depending on the condition, you need to go to a specific doctor to get it treated.
What are the effective treatments for prostate cancer?
There are many drugs that have been approved for the treatment of prostate cancer. Some include Bicalutamide, Abiraterone Acetate, Docetaxel, Degarelix, Casodex, Flutamide, Jevtana, Lupron, Goserelin Acetate, Enzalutamide, Leuprolide Acetate and much more. Depending on the stage of cancer and the severity, the doctor will suggest medications.
If you still have any questions regarding prostate cancer, you can be free to ask your doctor.