Prostate Cancer
It is a myth that prostate cancer only affects adults over 65 years of age.
Due to their Hispanic and African American ancestry, there is a higher incidence of this type of cancer among Puerto Ricans, even before this age.
Therefore, it is recommended that the patient visit the urologist for screening at age 40.
How to prevent prostate cancer?
There is no sure way to prevent prostate cancer, but certain habits can reduce the risk:
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Healthy diet: rich in fruits and vegetables
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Avoid tobacco
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Visit your doctor
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Regular physical activity
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Maintain a healthy weight
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Realizarse exámenes regulares, especialmente si se tiene antecedentes familiares de cáncer de próstata
Risk factors
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Age: The risk increases with age, being uncommon before age 40. Around 60% of cases are detected in men over 65.
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Family history: Having a father, brother, or son with prostate cancer significantly increases the risk. Having a father with prostate cancer doubles the risk, while having a brother with prostate cancer triples the risk.
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Race: African American men are approximately twice as likely to be at risk as other racial and ethnic groups in the United States.
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Genetic mutations: Mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes increase the risk of prostate cancer and other cancers.
Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
Symptoms and signs of prostate cancer
In its early stages, prostate cancer may not present any symptoms.
However, when symptoms do appear, they may include:
Difficulty urinating.
Weak or interrupted urine flow.
Frequent urination, especially at night.
Pain or burning sensation when urinating.
Blood in the urine or semen.
Pain in the lower back, hips, or thighs.
Erectile dysfunction.
Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
If you have a family member with prostate cancer, you should start getting checked at age 45; otherwise, you should get tested at age 50 because it is being diagnosed at very advanced stages.
Allies
