The number of prostate cancer cases have increased lately. The American Cancer Society has reported that in 2017 more than 161,000 new cases have been diagnosed with prostate cancer, while other 26,700 patients have died. Their approximations point to a 14% of men that can develop prostate cancer.
Who can get prostate cancer? Is your father in danger of having prostate cancer? We’re here to let you know five important things about this type of cancer.
- This is a Common Cancer in Old Men
Younger man can also get prostate cancer, but the majority of cases – 60% – target men over 66 years old or older. It is important that your father or any other old relative to get blood tests and check if they’re developing cancer. If it’s been a long time since they had blood tests, you should immediately make an appointment. Detecting this common cancer in its early stage will greatly improve the outcome.
- Prostate Cancer Affects More Men With African-American and Caribbean Heritage
The American Cancer Society has also reported that these men have more chances of developing prostate cancer. It seems that Hispanic and Asian men have less chances of developing it. Other parts of the world with an increased number of prostate cancer cases are Australia, Canada, the Caribbean, Europe’s Northwest, and the U.S. So, it’s important to know your ancestry and to get regular blood tests.
- You Can Lower Your Father’s Risk of Prostate Cancer by Changing His Lifestyle
We’re talking about diet and some exercise. It has been proven that by having a high diet in vegetables and fruit you can lower the risk of developing this type of cancer. Another important factor is maintaining the BMI.
- Your Dad Must Cooperate With His Doctor
It’s important that your father discusses with his doctor and agree to the best way of treating his prostate cancer. He will be told about the stage of his cancer and the doctor will provide some options. The most common one is surgery to remove the prostate. If the stage has advanced beyond the prostate, then your dad might need to go through radiation, hormone therapy or chemo.
- Prostate Cancer Increases the Risk of Developing Other Cancers
Men that survive prostate cancer can later develop other types of cancer. They are at a high risk of developing cancers of small intestines, thyroid, bladder, soft tissue, and skin. They can also get leukemia or rectal cancer if they’ve had radiation treatment. This only means that the patient must have regular check-up to monitor their health.
After the surgery, your father will have to limit his home activities for a few weeks. In that time, it is best that you contact an elder care agency and have a care provider help around the house. They will take care of your father and deal with the meal preparation, house work, laundry and supervision. The specialized care provider will also care for your father’s medication and will emotionally support him in times of need.
Image source : NIH Image Gallery
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