November Blue: The importance of regular check-ups in the fight against prostate cancer

Data from the Ministry of Health shows that in the comparison between 2019 and 2020, the first year of the epidemic, there was a 21.5% decrease in Brazil in surgeries to remove prostate cancer. Prostate specific antigen (PSA) collection and prostate biopsy, two tests able to diagnose prostate cancer early, were reduced by 27% and 21%, respectively.

November is marked by the ‘Novembro Azul’ campaign, which aims to educate men about the prevention and control of prostate cancer. Although it is a common male disease – second only to skin cancer – due to fear or ignorance, many men prefer not to talk about it, putting their lives at risk.

We know that some men are very resistant to seeing a doctor. But it is very important that we overcome this resistance, because only a health professional is able to make a good assessment of our health. So we ask you to take regular exams. It is clear that in addition to November, it can be done in any month. But we dedicate November because it is a campaign to raise awareness of all men so that they take care of themselves,” says Marcos Pacheco, Physician and Professor of Medicine Course at Sioma University.

Prostate cancer

Prostate cancer is a tumor that affects the prostate, the tube that connects the bladder to the outer opening of the penis. The disease is confirmed after a biopsy, which is indicated when there is any change in the blood test (PSA) or in the rectal examination, which is prescribed only when a condition is suspected by a specialist.

In most cases, the tumor grows slowly and does not show signs during life or threatens human health. However, in other cases, it can grow rapidly, spread to other organs and cause the death of the individual. This effect is known as metastasis.

Doctor and Professor Marco Pacheco also explains the importance of men getting preventive screenings for prostate cancer and an evaluation with a urologist, especially those over the age of 50.

“It is important not only to have prostate exams, but also an assessment for the level of blood pressure and blood sugar. All these tests are very important so that we can actually guarantee the lifespan, health and quality of life of all men,” says Marcos Pacheco.

Risk factors for prostate cancer

Age: The risk increases with age. In Brazil, for every ten men diagnosed with prostate cancer, nine are over 55 years old

A history of cancer in the family: Men whose father, grandfather or brother developed prostate cancer before the age of 60 are part of the high-risk group

Overweight and obesity: Recent studies show an increased risk of prostate cancer in men who are overweight.

protection

In addition to preventive examinations, prostate cancer can also be prevented by following a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, legumes, whole grains and grains, and lower fats, especially of animal origin. Other healthy habits are also recommended to fight the disease, such as getting at least 30 minutes of physical activity per day, maintaining an appropriate weight for height, reducing alcohol consumption and not smoking.

symptoms

Difficulty urinating

– It takes a while to pee

blood in urine

– Insufficient urethra

The need to urinate a lot during the day or night.