Home : health : DR-TEST : Tips To Prevent And Manage Prostate Cancer
Tips to prevent and manage prostate cancer

Tips to prevent and manage prostate cancer

The prostate is a gland found in males. When unhealthy cells start to grow and multiply abnormally in that area, it leads to prostate cancer. There are various types of cancers that develop in the prostate gland, like small cell carcinomas, transitional cell carcinomas, sarcomas, and neuroendocrine tumors. It is essential to learn the signs and symptoms for timely treatment. Here are some ways of managing the condition and preventive methods to reduce the risk:

Treatment options
There are several treatment options available to manage prostate cancer, and each of the options has its possible risks or side effects. After a careful diagnosis and discussion with a health professional, they may suggest one of these:

  • DR-TEST
    Digital Rectal Exam (DRE) is a test in which the doctor inserts a lubricated and gloved finger inside the rectum to examine the prostate by touch. If they find any abnormalities in the prostate, the doctor can immediately suggest any more tests and make a treatment plan.
  • Xofigo
    This is an invasive treatment option advised when other options like hormonal or surgical methods have not been successful in lowering the testosterone levels in the body. It is also used when cancer has specifically spread to the bone and no other parts of the body.
  • Enzalutamide
    This product is known to be an androgen receptor inhibitor, which means that it helps in blocking the effects of androgen, a male reproductive hormone, and inhibits the growth of cancer cells. This is also used when a patient has tried other treatment options without any success. This is not used at the primary stage.
  • Observation or active surveillance
    This means monitoring cancer closely to provide the right kind of treatment. It involves a doctor’s visit every six months for a prostate-specific antigen blood test and DRE.
  • Surgery
    This method involves surgically removing the prostate gland, the surrounding tissue, and some lymph nodes to prevent any potential cancer cells from the nearby tissues. This method is usually used when cancer has not yet spread to the rest of the body.
  • Radiation therapy
    This method uses high-energy beams that kill cancer cells. The therapy can be used in different stages of the treatment and serves different purposes at various stages.

There are some other options as well. However, a health professional can choose between the methods depending on a patient’s condition. Sometimes, there are also promising clinical trials in which patients can participate.

Nutritional changes

  • Drink coffee
    A meta-analysis of several clinical studies suggests that drinking about 4-5 cups of coffee daily is likely to decrease the risk of developing prostate cancer. The studies also saw an 11% percent drop in the risk of fatal prostate cancer with every 3 cups of coffee. After careful observations, it was understood that there is a dose-response relationship between caffeine and prostate cancer. This means the risks go up and down depending on the number of coffee cups. However, drinking too much caffeine can have some side effects and health complications.
  • Reduce the intake of fats
    Studies show a link between animal and saturated fats and an increased risk of prostate cancer. While the results are inconclusive, prevention is better than cure. Saturated fats are known for their unhealthy traits, so it would be wise to cut them down from your daily nutrition. Swap animal fats like butter for plant-based fats like olive oil and candy bars for fresh fruits.
  • Increase the intake of isoflavones
    Isoflavones are essential nutrients to reduce the risk of cancer. These nutrients are easily found in foods like tofu, soy products, chickpeas, lentils, peanuts, and alfalfa sprouts. Researchers also suggest a positive link between drinking green tea and reducing the risk of prostate cancer; however, further detailed studies are needed to come to any specific conclusions.
  • Say yes to citrus fruits
    Fruits like kumquats, yuzu, grapefruit, oranges, lemons, limes, tangerines, and mandarins are citrus-rich fruits. Studies suggest that eating these fruits can reduce the risk of developing prostate cancer. However, try eating the fruit’s flesh instead its juice, as it contains a lot of fiber essential for the body. If you are on any treatments, consult a doctor before adding grapefruit to your meals because it may or may not interfere with the treatment process.
  • Eat foods rich in lycopene
    Red foods like watermelon, tomatoes, and red peppers are rich in lycopene. This powerful antioxidant works to reduce the risk of prostate cancer. According to studies, eating canned or cooked tomatoes four times a week resulted in a 28% decrease in the risk of prostate cancer.

Lifestyle changes 

  • Exercise regularly
    The waist circumference is added to Body Mass Index (BMI) as an association factor to the risk of prostate cancer. It is understood that the higher the waist circumference, the higher the risk. Regular exercising like walking, running, swimming, or bicycling are great physical movements to keep the body fit and healthy.
  • Active sexual life
    Studies suggest that men who have a higher frequency of ejaculation are about two-thirds less prone to developing the disease. Experts believe that frequent ejaculation releases toxins and also helps fight inflammation. However, this is not a conclusive study.

Top Reads

Top Tags

Popular Reads

5 mistakes to avoid while using vacuum cleaners
Home

5 mistakes to avoid while using vacuum cleaners

Vacuum cleaners are one of the most reliable home cleaning appliances. With the help of the machine, cordless or corded, one can get rid of dirt, cobwebs, and allergens found around the house. The device is used for cleaning purposes, therefore, it is vital to handle the vacuum cleaner correctly for optimal usage. That said, not everyone knows how to use a vacuum cleaner efficiently. Below are the common mistakes made while using them: Failing to empty or clean dust bags and filters It is important to empty and clean vacuum dust bags regularly. Failing to do so can affect the efficiency of the vacuum cleaner. Despite vacuuming, if you still notice dust stains on the carpet or the floor, it’s an indicator to empty the dust bag. Another tell-tale sign for the removal of dust bag is when your vacuum cleaner seems to be losing its suction power. The frequency of emptying the vacuum bags will depend on how often you use the device. A full vacuum dust bag will lead to an accumulation of dust and the breeding of bacteria and germs in the bag. Many latest models are equipped with disposable bags that are much more convenient.
Read More

Eczema – 3 methods to manage its symptoms

Eczema has many different stages and types. Unfortunately, about 10.1 percent of people in the country have some or the other form of this condition. Such a disease is a combination of conditions that make the skin irritated or inflamed. With proper treatment, one can manage symptoms. Red, dry, cracked, and leathery skin are the common eczema signs. Here are three useful methods that help deal with eczema and manage its symptoms: Getting the right treatment options Here are some treatments associated with eczema. Dupixent Dupixent is prescribed for children six or older and adults; for those who cannot control symptoms with other treatment measures, alternate treatments are not recommended. This monoclonal antibody works on a targeted area in the immune system. Dupixent comes in pre-filled single-dose pens and syringes, given as a subcutaneous injection. One can find this treatment option in two strengths: 300-mg/2-mL and 200 mg/1.14-mL solutions. Cibinqo This once-daily oral treatment helps manage symptoms for adults who have not seen relief with prevailing treatment options. Cibinqo is an FDA-approved treatment for adults with moderate to severe atopic dermatitis. Doses that can be taken are either 100 or 200 mg. Alternately, a 50 mg dosage is for patients with moderate renal impairment.
health

5 mistakes to avoid before bed for better sleep

Have you ever woken up feeling tired and lethargic despite sleeping for seven to eight hours at night? It could be due to poor sleep quality. Disturbed sleep influences the rest of your day: how you think, your performance at work, and other tasks. The causes of poor sleep are many, including a faulty mattress, distractions in your room, or a heavy dinner. Avoiding the following mistakes before bed can help you sleep better: Staring at a screen Using gadgets close to bedtime is probably the most common mistake in the digital age. The blue light emitted from screens affects the production of a specific hormone responsible for inducing sleep and regulating the circadian rhythm. Apart from the blue light emission, the television or mobile phone sound can be a distraction that keeps you awake. High noise levels create lots of mental stimulation and disturbance, preventing the brain from shutting down. Hence, it is advisable to avoid using phones, televisions, and laptops for at least an hour before bed. Exercising Exercise is among the best solutions for good health, but you must do it at the right time. Physical activity late in the evening or at night hampers sleep patterns by increasing stress and raising body temperature.
health

Migraine – Ways to manage the condition

Migraine headaches are a devitalizing experience. It completely saps the person of energy and prevents them from being productive during these episodes. There is usually a build-up to a migraine attack which is different for every individual. The phase before the actual migraine attack is known as the aura, and people may report seeing flashes of light or experiencing a tingling sensation. Below are some options for treating migraine headaches: Treatment options Nurtec Nurtec is a treatment option that helps relieve some symptoms of migraines. It reduces the severity of headaches and sensitivity to light. Nurtec is usually taken on alternate days to prevent migraines and other pain associated with the condition. Ubrelvy Ubrelvy, a fast pain-relief, is a treatment option that blocks calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) in the body. CGRP is associated with migraine attacks, and suppressing it goes a long way in treating the condition.  Excedrin This pain reliever does not just treat migraine headaches but also pain in other parts of the body. Excedrin provides fast pain relief to the patient. Qulipta Qulipta is a treatment option that helps prevent migraines over a more extended period. However, medical professionals do not recommend this treatment option to people suffering from kidney or liver problems.
health

10 human foods that are safe for dogs

Many pet owners tend to share their own food with their pets. After all, it can be hard to say no to the puppy eyes watching you while you cook or eat. However, humans and dogs metabolize food differently, and so, what is safe and healthy for you can be dangerous for your four-legged companion. So, here are a few safe and delicious human foods that even dogs can enjoy: Peanut butter Not just us, even dogs can’t get enough of peanut butter. Fortunately, it is safe for dogs and contains nutrients like healthy fats, vitamins B and E, protein, and niacin. However, it is high in fat and calorie content, so overindulgence can lead to health issues. Also, plain peanut butter that does not contain added sugar, salt, or artificial sweeteners, should be offered to dogs. Chicken Cooked chicken, without bones and spices, can be a perfect meal for canines. It is one of the best sources of protein, making it one of the most common ingredients in dog foods. Cooked chicken bones should never be given to your pets as these bones can splinter and lead to choking. Carrots Carrots can be your go-to choice for veggies that can be shared with dogs.
Pets