RHPRC-REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH PROGRAME for RURAL COMMUNITIES

Prostate Cancer

Definition: Cancer of the male reproductive system that affects the prostate (an exocrine gland, under the bladder and in front of the rectum). Prostate apart from producing fluid that forms part of semen, is involved in urine control (continence).

PSA (Prostate Specific Antigen)

It is produced by the epithelial cells in the prostate gland. PSA helps keep the semen in liquid state. If a man’s PSA levels are high, it might be an indicator of either a prostate cancer or some kind of prostate condition.

Symptoms of Prostate Cancer

When symptoms do exist, they are usually one or more of the following:

·         The patient urinates more often

·         He may find it hard to start urinating

·         There may be blood in urine

·         Urination might be painful

·         Achieving or maintaining an erection may be difficult (less common)

Advanced Prostate Cancer

·         Bone pain, often in the spine

·         Leg weakness (if spinal cord has been compressed)

·         Urinary incontinence

·         Fecal incontinence

What are the causes of prostate Cancer?

Related but not limited to:-

·         Age, genetics, Diet, Obesity, STDs

Possible complications

·         Metastasis

·         Incontinence

·         Erectile dysfunction