As in other organs of the body, abnormal growth and proliferation at the cellular level in the prostate gland can be benign (BPH) and malignant (prostate cancer). Stating that BPH is not life-threatening and does not spread (metastasis) to other parts of the body, Urology Specialist Assoc. Prof. Dr. Yasin Yitgin underlined that prostate cancer can metastasize and threaten life.
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Yasin Yitgin from BHT CLINIC Istanbul Tema Hospital Urology Clinic said, “Prostate cancer is one of the most common types of cancer in men. Many prostate cancers grow slowly and are limited to the prostate gland. However, some types of prostate cancer are aggressive and can spread rapidly. Prostate cancer detected at an early stage (when it is limited to the prostate gland) has the best chance for successful treatment.”
Stating that prostate cancer may not show any symptoms in its early stages, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Yitgin emphasized that more advanced prostate cancer may have symptoms such as difficulty urinating, decreased urine pressure, bleeding in the urine, bleeding in semen, bone pain, causeless weight loss, erectile dysfunction.
This risk increases especially over the age of 50.
Stating that the risk increases even more towards advanced ages, Dr. Yitgin said, “Especially over the age of 50, this risk increases more. The diagnosis of prostate cancer in a blood relative increases the risk, and the degree of closeness indicates that the risk will increase extra. In addition, the diagnosis of breast cancer in the family may also increase the risk of prostate cancer from related gene mutations. Black people have a higher incidence and are more likely to have advanced cancer. In obese people, cancer is more aggressive and is more likely to recur after treatment.”
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Yitgin emphasized that early diagnosis is treatable and life-saving and emphasized the importance of recognizing the complaints related to the disease before they develop. Dr. Yitgin recommended that men with a family history should consult a urologist at least once a year for prostate cancer screening at the age of 45 and all other men aged 50 and over, and said, “In the diagnosis, finger prostate examination, PSA blood test and prostate-specific MR imaging are used. A definitive diagnosis can be made with a tissue sample (biopsy),” he said, adding that treatment alternatives are discussed according to the results.
Healthy nutrition and exercise should not be neglected
Stating that the most effective method in the treatment of early stage prostate cancer is surgical removal of the prostate, Dr. Yitgin said, “Systemic treatment (hormone therapy, chemotherapy) and radiotherapy options can be applied in advanced stages.”
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Yitgin concluded his speech by saying “Although it is not possible to prevent prostate cancer, healthy nutrition, exercise, quitting bad habits and regular doctor follow-ups are recommended in order to win the fight against the disease”.
İHA Haber Kodu: 20240913AW286868