Prostate Cancer - How Do You Cope?

Cancer has become a colossal threat to human life all over the world causing immense distress, psychological sufferings and hardships to the affected as well as their families. It is a condition which arises due to abnormal, uncontrolled multiplication of cells, hampering normal cellular functioning.

Here, we will have a brief overview on one such type of cancer that is affecting males, the prostate cancer and how it can be managed well.

WHAT IS A PROSTATE?
Prostate is an 'exocrine' gland and is a part of the male reproductive system. It is located in front of the rectum, below the bladder. It is approximately the size of a walnut, which changes with age, especially during puberty. Prostate secretes a milky, alkaline fluid which helps to nourish and protect the sperm cells in semen. It also contains muscle fibers that aid in controlling urine flow and expelling semen during ejaculation. Thus, a diseased prostate can directly affect urinary and sexual function in males.

WHAT IS PROSTATE CANCER?
Uncontrolled, autonomous proliferation of prostatic cells give rise to prostate cancer. It is the most common non cutaneous malignancy in males, also known as 'carcinoma' of the prostate. Most of the prostate cancers are slow growing. The cancer cells may metastasise from prostate to other parts of the body like the lymph nodes, bones and pelvic organs. It is primarily a disease among men aged 50 years or older and the incidence rate of prostate cancer is on the rise due to increasing life expectancy.

There are several types of prostate cancer. The most common is the cancer of the gland cells also termed as 'adenocarcinoma'. Sarcomas, small cell carcinomas, neuroendocrine tumours and transitional cell carcinomas are the other rare types. Prostate cancer is classified into four stages i.e. Stage I, II, III and IV, which helps to assess and recommend treatment options.

RISK FACTORS FOR PROSTATE CANCER
The factors that trigger development of prostate cancer are still not clear, although there are a few that have been identified to determine the risk. The three well-established risk factors are increased age, heredity/genetics and race/ethnicity. Also, there have been some other uncertain factors like diet, lifestyle, obesity, hormones, etc. which may trigger prostate cancer.

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS FOR PROSTATE CANCER
Normally, in the initial stages, majority of the affected males are asymptomatic. In later stages, few symptoms may be observed which are often similar to the diseased condition called benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). These include:
- Frequent urination at night
- Interrupted and weak urine stream
- Blood in the urine
- Pain and burning sensation during urination
- Erectile dysfunction
- Pain in the back, pelvis, chest and hips
- Weight loss, weakness, loss of appetite, etc.

DIAGNOSIS OF PROSTATE CANCER
Screening aids in early detection of the prostate cancer. It is done by physical examination and an assay of serum Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) level. In case of any abnormalities, further tests such as imaging! techniques, tumour biopsies or endoscopic observations are recommended.

COPING WITH PROSTATE CANCER
Facing prostate cancer diagnosis can be arduous and it affects the individual, both physically and psychologically. Not only dealing with the diagnosis becomes challenging, but also having treatment and managing its side-effects becomes crucial. Taking early actions will enable the individual to understand the condition better and deal with the effects of this chronic illness. Few steps to start with are as follows.
- Family and friends: The most important thing to do when an individual is diagnosed with prostate cancer is to seek help from the family and close friends. They can offer practical as well as emotional support which will aid to deal better with the challenges one is facing and ease the feelings of distress
- Individual counseling: By doing one-on-one counseling will help an individual to express his private or sensitive feelings about the illness and its impact on his life.
- Supportive care: Other cancer survivors can be a very unique and useful support groups. They have been through similar experiences and can provide an environment where one can learn new ways of dealing with the condition.

- Sexual health: Prostate cancer diagnosis can affect sex life of men in many ways; one such problem is erectile dysfunction. One can overcome this by considering hugging, touching and caressing as ways to share sexuality with the partner.

- Learn more about the condition: It can be hard to remember everything what doctor tells about the prostate cancer. However, do not hesitate to ask questions to the doctor, nurse or any health care provider about the condition or repeat any instructions or about medical terms. Ask about different types of treatment options available and their side effects. This will help to know what to expect or how to manage them.
- Treatment strategies: There are many treatment options to consider, so it is important to take the time and choose the right option. Treatments are recommended depending upon the stage as well as prognosis. Treatment options such as surgery, radiation therapy, immunotherapy, chemotherapy, cryosurgery and hormone therapy are used to treat prostate cancer. Along with treatment, few precautionary measures also need to be taken to prevent recurrence of the condition.

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