News

Men’s Health Week is an annual event that takes place in June and is focused on raising awareness about men’s health issues. It aims to encourage men to take proactive steps towards improving their well-being and promoting early detection and treatment of various health conditions

One of the significant health concerns for men that is often highlighted during Men’s Health Week is prostate cancer. Prostate cancer is the most common cancer among men, excluding non-melanoma skin cancer. The prostate is a small gland located below the bladder and in front of the rectum, and it plays a role in producing semen.

Here are some key points to know about prostate cancer:

1. Risk Factors: The exact cause of prostate cancer is unknown, but several risk factors have been identified. These include age (the risk increases with age), family history (having a close relative with prostate cancer), race (African American men have a higher risk), and certain genetic changes.
2. Symptoms: In its early stages, prostate cancer may not cause noticeable symptoms. However, as the disease progresses, men may experience urinary difficulties such as frequent urination, weak urine flow, blood in the urine or semen, erectile dysfunction, pain or discomfort in the pelvic area, and bone pain.
3. Screening and Diagnosis: Prostate cancer can often be detected early through screening tests. The two primary methods of screening are the prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test and a digital rectal examination (DRE). If abnormalities are found during these screenings, further diagnostic tests like biopsies may be conducted to confirm the presence of cancer.
4. Treatment Options: The treatment for prostate cancer depends on various factors, including the stage and aggressiveness of the cancer, overall health, and personal preferences. Treatment options may include active surveillance (monitoring the cancer without immediate treatment), surgery, radiation therapy, hormone therapy, chemotherapy, or targeted therapy.
5. Prevention and Awareness: While there is no guaranteed way to prevent prostate cancer, adopting a healthy lifestyle can reduce the risk. This includes eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding smoking. Regular check-ups with a healthcare provider can also help detect any potential issues early on.

During Men’s Health Week, organisations such as SmartCare@home Ltd can help with awareness campaigns, educational programs, and providing information on appropriate healthcare providers who can organise screenings, to encourage men to take charge of their health and raise awareness about prostate cancer. It’s crucial for men to have open conversations with their healthcare providers and be proactive in seeking appropriate screenings and early detection of any potential health issues, including prostate cancer.