June is Men’s Health Month, so there’s no better time to highlight a subject unique to all the XY chromosomes of the world. Prostate health becomes even more important as we age. However, it seems that many men are shy to discuss it, cross their legs at the mere mention of the word, or have a great many misconceptions about it. Let’s see if we can debunk some of those untruths and speak frankly about what you need to know.
Where is the prostate located?
First, to get it out of the way, crossing your legs doesn’t protect the prostate. This often-misunderstood gland is situated under the bladder and between the penis and the rectum. Although it serves a purpose in conjunction with the penis and testicles, it is not located within them, as has often been thought in the past.
What is the prostate’s function?
It plays an essential role in the male reproductive system by aiding in the expulsion of semen and producing a seminal fluid that protects and nourishes the sperm as it moves.
The activity and growth of the gland occur when stimulated as a result of male hormones called androgens which are produced in the testicles.
Should you get tested?
Like regular gynecological screenings for women, this is a routine procedure for males to check regularly to help prevent illness or to detect an abnormality early. Screenings usually begin around age 45 – 50. As the gland is located next to the rectum, a doctor will use a lubed, gloved finger inserted in the rectum to feel the size of the prostate. A normal gland is about the size of a walnut, so this test can determine if it is enlarged. Although uncomfortable, the test should not be painful.
The second most common is a blood test. The prostate produces a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) which is part of a man’s blood. With most general checkups, a blood panel is ordered, and this bloodwork may be included. When PSA enzymes are elevated, it may be an indicator of an infection or cancer. The Prostate Cancer Foundation (PCF) says that if the levels are abnormal, the doctor will further evaluate these results based on:
- Your age
- Your prostate size
- The results of your previous PSA tests
- Other medical conditions, such as BPH or prostatitis
- Whether you’ve taken any medications that may artificially lower PSA, such as finasteride (Proscar or Propecia) or dutasteride (Avodart)
- A history of infections and procedures involving the urinary tract that can elevate the PSA
The PCF also states that an enlarged gland or higher PSA levels may also be a normal part of the aging process. However, only a medical professional can determine this, and these simple screenings are an essential step in guarding your health. They should be done as often as recommended by your provider. There are several other tests that may be performed by a urologist to measure the size of the prostate, the bladder’s health, and more.
What are possible prostrate problems?
Prostatitis. A benign although painful ailment, it can be caused by a bacterial infection and causes swelling, tenderness, and inflammation. It is usually treatable by antibiotics.
Cancer. The PCF further states that prostate cancer is the most common non-skin cancer in America. In the United States, 1 out of every 9 men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in their lifetime. Prostate cancer is caused when its cells begin to grow out of control. It feeds on the androgens as fuel. Most prostate cancers are slow-growing but not all. Having the exam done regularly will help to detect it early so that treatment may begin before it can spread to other areas of the body. There is a wide range of treatment options, and each case is assessed, and a tailor-made treatment is ordered. Some of the options include active surveillance, hormone therapy, chemotherapy, radiation, or removal of the gland in more severe cases.
Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH). A non-cancerous condition that can block the flow of urine. It is caused by an excess growth of tissue, thus causing it to become enlarged. It is generally treatable by medications or catheters to relieve the urinary blockage, but in more severe cases where drugs aren’t effective, surgery may be needed.
How can you avoid prostate problems?
It is believed that prostate cancer may be due to a variety of components that includes genetics, diet, lifestyle choices, and environmental factors. The PCF has some sensible advice to help your chances in avoiding problems:
- “Eat fewer calories and exercise more so that you maintain a healthy weight.
- Try to keep the amount of fat you get from red meat and dairy products to a minimum.
- Watch your calcium intake. Some calcium is okay but avoid taking more than 1,200 mg per day.
- Eat more fish
- Incorporate cooked tomatoes (prepared with olive oil), which may be beneficial, and cruciferous vegetables (like broccoli and cauliflower) into many of your weekly meals. Soy-based foods and green tea are also potential dietary components that may be helpful.
- Avoid smoking for many reasons. Drink alcohol in moderation, if at all.
- Seek medical treatment for stress, high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, and depression.
- Avoid over-supplementation with megavitamins.
- Relax and enjoy life.
- For men 45 or older (40 or older for African American men or those with a family history of prostate cancer), discuss the risks and benefits of screening with a PSA test and, if indicated, a rectal examination, with your doctor.”
As men age, the prostate generally grows larger as part of the normal aging process. However, regular screenings may help to stave off any problems early. Be sure to follow your medical provider’s recommendations so that you can live your best life.
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