According to the Cancer Council of Australia’s research it is estimated that more than 25,400 males were diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2023. The average age at diagnosis is 70 years old. Prostate cancer is the most diagnosed cancer in Australia. Let us look more into the prostate, the effects of having an enlarged prostate and what the risks are of prostate cancer.
What is The Prostate?
The prostate is a small gland about the size of a walnut. It forms part of the male reproductive system. The prostate sits below the bladder and in front of the rectum (the end section of the large bowel). A pair of glands called the seminal vesicles attach to the back of the prostate. The prostate is close to nerves, blood vessels and muscles that help control erections and urination (the pelvic floor muscles and urinary sphincter).
What The Prostate Does
The prostate produces fluid that helps to feed and protect sperm. This fluid forms part of semen. Semen also contains sperm made in the testicles (testes) and fluid made by the seminal vesicles.
The urethra is a thin tube that runs from the bladder and through the prostate to take urine out of the body. The urethra also carries semen during orgasm.
When an orgasm occurs, millions of sperm from the testicles move through two tubes near the prostate called the vas deferens. The sperm then join with the fluids produced by the prostate and seminal vesicles to make semen. The muscle around the prostate contracts and pushes the semen into the urethra and out through the penis.
What Is an Enlarged Prostate?
The male sex hormone, testosterone, is made by the testicles and controls how the prostate grows. The prostate gland starts out small and has two main phases of growth. It doubles in size during the teenage years, then continues to grow again after age of 25 years throughout the rest of a man’s life. However, an excessively enlarged prostate results in a disease known as benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH). BPH may press on the urethra and affect how you urinate. You may have:
- to go to the toilet more often, especially at night.
- to go urgently.
- trouble getting started.
- dribbling of urine after going.
- a feeling that the bladder is not empty.
These are known as lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) and they can also occur in advanced prostate cancer. If you have lower urinary tract symptoms, speak to your doctor.
Medication And Treatments for Enlarged Prostate
There are several treatment options for an enlarged prostate. Your doctor can prescribe medication to help relax the prostate and bladder muscles or to block the hormones that cause the prostate to grow. Combining several types of medications may be recommended. Your doctor may also recommend surgery to remove the extra prostate tissue.
Natural Treatment Options for Enlarged Prostate
There are natural remedies available that may work to combat enlarged prostate symptoms. If you do want to try natural remedies, talk to a medical professional first as some herbal treatments can interact with prescription medications.
- Saw palmetto is a herbal remedy that comes from the fruit of a type of palm tree. It has been used in alternative medicine for centuries to relieve urinary symptoms, including those caused by an enlarged prostate. Research continues to investigate the anti-inflammatory and hormone-blocking properties that saw palmetto may have. Blackmores Proseren Saw Palmetto 120 Capsules (pharmacy4less.com.au)
- Beta-sitosterol is a herbal mixture taken from different plants that contain cholesterol-like substances called sitosterol or phytosterols (plant-based fats). Some studies have suggested that beta-sitosterol can relieve urinary symptoms of BPH, including the strength of urine flow.
- Pygeum comes from the bark of the African plum tree. It has been used in traditional medicine to treat urinary problems since ancient times. Some small studies have suggested the supplement can help with bladder emptying and urine flow.
- Lycopene is a type of organic pigment called a carotenoid. It is related to beta-carotene and gives some vegetables and fruits (e.g., tomatoes) a red colour. Lycopene is a powerful antioxidant that might help protect cells from damage. Some research shows that lycopene may prevent the growth of prostate cancer cells by blocking critical cell communication pathways.
- Stinging nettle may have some benefits when used as a medicine. Nettle root is thought to improve some BPH symptoms. The use of stinging nettle may decrease the severity of urinary frequency, nocturia (the frequent need to urinate at night), and urgency when used in combination with conventional medical treatment.
- You may find a combination of all the above in a natural remedy such as Blackmores Prostate Health Formula. This men's health supplement combines antioxidants, vitamins, minerals and a standardised extract of saw palmetto. Blackmores Prostate Health Formula's blend of ingredients helps maintain the health of your prostate and reduces free radicals formed in your body. Blackmores Prostrate Health Formula 60 Capsules (pharmacy4less.com.au)
Always read the label and follow the directions for use. If symptoms persist talk to your health professional.
What is Prostate Cancer?
Prostate cancer begins when abnormal cells in the prostate start growing in an uncontrolled way.
How Common is Prostate Cancer?
According to the Cancer Council of Australia’s research, prostate cancer is the most common cancer in Australian men (apart from common skin cancers). There are about 18,100 new cases in Australia every year. About 1 in 10 men will get prostate cancer before the age of 75.
Anyone with a prostate can get prostate cancer – men, transgender women and intersex people. For information specific to your situation, speak to your doctor
The Risk Factors of Prostate Cancer?
The exact cause of prostate cancer is not known. Things that can increase the risk of developing prostate cancer include:
- Older age – over 90% of people diagnosed with prostate cancer are aged 55 and over.
- Family history of prostate cancer – if your father or brother has had prostate cancer before the age of 60, your risk is higher than others.
- Strong family history of breast or ovarian cancer – particularly cancer caused by a fault in the brca1 or brca2 genes.
- Race – people of African American descent have a higher risk
What Are the Symptoms?
Early prostate cancer rarely causes symptoms, even people diagnosed with advanced prostate cancer may have no symptoms. Being aware of the early signs of prostate issues can lead to prompt medical attention and better outcomes. Symptoms to watch for include:
- Frequent urination, especially at night
- Difficulty starting or stopping urination.
- Weak or interrupted urinary stream.
- Pain or discomfort during urination or ejaculation.
- Blood in urine or semen.
- Persistent pain in the lower back, hips, or thighs.
If you experience any of these symptoms it is crucial to consult with a healthcare professional for further evaluation.
The Importance of Regular Prostate Checks
Regular prostate checks are vital for early detection and treatment of potential issues increasing the chances of better long-term health outcomes. Regular prostate checks are essential for several reasons:
- Early detection of prostate cancer: Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers in men. Early detection through regular screenings significantly increases the chances of successful treatment.
- Managing benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH): BPH or an enlarged prostate, can cause urinary issues. Regular checks help monitor and manage this condition effectively improving the quality of life.
- Preventing prostatitis: Prostatitis or inflammation of the prostate, can cause pain and urinary problems. Early diagnosis through regular checks can lead to timely treatment and relief from symptoms.
It is common for men to feel embarrassed when discussing prostate health or undergoing prostate exams however, it is important to remember that these checks are a routine part of maintaining overall health.
Open communication with your doctor can help alleviate concerns and ensure you receive the best care possible. Prostate health is nothing to be ashamed of. Taking charge of your health is a sign of strength and responsibility.
Tips to Keeping Your Prostate Healthy
Maintaining a healthy prostate involves a combination of lifestyle choices and regular medical care. Here are some tips for maintaining a healthy prostate:
Eat a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables and healthy fats can support prostate health. Foods high in antioxidants, like tomatoes (rich in lycopene) and cruciferous vegetables, like broccoli, are particularly beneficial.
- Staying active with regular exercise helps maintain a healthy weight and reduces the risk of prostate problems. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week.
- Maintain a healthy weight as obesity is linked to several prostate health issues. Maintaining a healthy weight through diet and exercise can lower your risk.
- Stayinghydrated drinking plenty of water helps flush out toxins and keeps the urinary system functioning well.
- Limit alcohol and caffeine. Excessive alcohol and caffeine can irritate the prostate and worsen symptoms of BPH.
- Maintain regular check-ups: Annual prostate exams and discussions with your healthcare provider about your prostate health are essential, especially as you age.
Do not let embarrassment prevent you from taking care of your prostate, your health is worth it.
By following a healthy lifestyle and staying proactive about regular screenings, you can help ensure a healthy prostate for years to come.
Resources: Prostate cancer | Causes, Symptoms & Treatments | Cancer Council