Movember Matters: Get Tested for Prostate Cancer
Did you know that 1 in every 23 South African men will develop prostate cancer in their lifetime? Not only that, an average of 5 men in South Africa die as a result of prostate cancer every day.
The only way to reduce this is to raise awareness about prostate cancer, and the importance of getting regular medical check-ups to screen for this life-threatening condition.
Unfortunately, many men tend to avoid getting checked, because they worry about the intrusive nature of the test. The good news is, you can now opt for a quick and easy blood test instead.
About Prostate Cancer
The prostate is a gland in the male body, located just below the bladder in front of the bowels. It has an important reproductive function, producing fluid that makes up part of the composition of semen (sperm).
Prostate cancer can occur when the cells in the prostate gland start reproducing faster than usual, causing a tumour on the prostate. Without treatment, prostate cancer cells can spread to other parts of the body, making cancer more difficult to treat.
It’s not unusual for prostate cancer to start developing without any noticeable symptoms. That’s why early detection is essential, and prevention is better than cure.
How Doctors Test for Prostate Cancer
There are two common methods used to screen for prostate cancer:
- PSA blood test. The doctor will draw blood from a vein in your arm for testing. This test measures the amount of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) in your blood. High PSA levels may be a sign of cancer, or other conditions like prostate inflammation.
- Digital rectal examination (DRE). This is a physical exam, where the doctor uses a gloved, lubricated finger to feel the surface of the prostate and check for any irregularities.
Pros and Cons of the PSA Test
A lot of gents may prefer a PSA blood test over a DRE, as it feels less invasive. The PSA test is also useful for detecting early-stage prostate cancer, which means patients can start treatment quicker.
On the other hand, PSA screening may also detect very slow-growing types of prostate cancers that are not life-threatening, leading to unnecessary treatments. It’s always best to talk to your doctor about which type of test is best for you.
Protect your health by getting checked for prostate cancer – a little bit of discomfort is well worth it for the peace of mind it will give you and those who care about you.
With the options available, there’s no excuse not to get tested – and no need to become a statistic!
Get Involved – Support Men’s Wellness
The Movember movement is a charity that’s dedicated to addressing the biggest health concerns facing men today – including prostate cancer, testicular cancer, and mental health struggles. Find out how you can get involved.
If you have any questions, feel free to chat with one of our health counsellors and they can answer your questions privately and professionally. All Health 247 counselling and advice is free to you and your family.