Prostate health is a crucial aspect of men’s overall well-being, nut unfortunately, says Tennessee Men’s Clinic it often goes overlooked until problems arise. The prostate gland is a walnut-sized organ located below the bladder. It plays a vital role in male reproductive health, thereby, making it a topic that needs detailed erudition.
What is the Prostate gland?
The prostate gland’s primary function is to produce seminal fluid. This fluid nourishes and transports sperm during ejaculation. Issues related to the prostate can have a significant impact on a man’s life, particularly as he ages. This is what makes it pertinent for one to pay careful attention to look for any abnormalities in its functionality while there is still time.
Be Aware of Prostate Cancer
One of the most common cancers in men is the prostate cancer. Conducting regular screening thus, is a crucial aspect of maintaining prostate health. The two primary screening methods are:
Digital Rectal Exam (DRE): This exam can detect abnormalities in the gland’s size and texture.
Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) Test: The PSA test measures the level of a specific protein in the blood that is produced by the prostate. Elevated PSA levels along with some other issues in the body may indicate prostate issues, including cancer.
How to Prevent Prostate Issues?
The factors leading to prostate cancer include age, family history, and genetics cannot be changed. However, with experts in maintaining men’s health such as Tennessee Men’s Clinic can guide one toward several lifestyle choices. These changes can guarantee a reduced risk of developing prostate problems.
- Healthy Diet: Switching to a balanced diet is a great help in this regard. It should be rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Antioxidants, found in many fruits and vegetables, may help protect prostate cells from damage.
- Regular Exercise: A proven means of maintaining a healthy weight and reducing the risk of prostate cancer is by engaging in physical activity. At least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week can be good enough.
- Limit Red Meat and Processed Foods: One should consider substituting red meat and processed foods with lean protein sources and whole foods.
Prostate Treatment Options:
Once prostate issues are detected, it’s essential to explore appropriate treatment options immediately, advices Tennessee Men’s Clinic. The choice of treatment depends on the condition and its severity. Some of the treatment procedures are as follows:
Active Surveillance: This is recommended for slow-growing prostate cancer or early-stage cases. It is a process of regular monitoring to ensure the cancer does not progress significantly.
Surgery: the entire gland can be removed in case of need through surgical options, such as radical prostatectomy. This is typical for cases with localized cancer.
Radiation Therapy: Delivered both externally or internally, radiation therapy uses high-energy rays. These rays target and destroy cancer cells.
Hormone Therapy: Testosterone can fuel the growth of prostate cancer cells. This is why hormone therapy aims to reduce the levels of testosterone in the body.
Minimally Invasive Procedures: Procedures like transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) or laser therapy can treat an enlarged prostate (BPH). This is done by removing or shrinking excess tissue.
It is important to remember that prostate health is a lifelong journey. Its early detection can lead to more effective treatment and better outcomes. If a man is over the age of 50, or if has a family history of prostate problems, it’s crucial to prioritize regular check-ups and screenings.
