Prostate: what is it and what is it for?

The prostate is a gland in the male genital system located below the bladder (in the lower abdomen) and is often only remembered when cancer appears. According to the National Cancer Institute (INCA) in Brazil, prostate cancer is the second most common among men. It is normally the size of a walnut, but it tends to grow over the years, but that doesn’t mean it will become cancerous.

According to the urologist of the Santa Clara hospital, Dr. Rafael Soares Fogaça de Aguiar, the main function of the prostate is to produce a liquid that nourishes and helps the movement of sperm. “This liquid protects the sperm from vaginal acidity, keeping its DNA and extending its life to allow time to reach the egg. The urethra canal passes inside the prostate, so some problems in this gland can affect the urination. important gland, but not vital. Therefore, a cancer patient can undergo prostate removal and follow a normal life, “explains the doctor.

Risk Factors – The risk factors for prostate cancer are: excess body fat, lifestyle (eating habits), genetics, and most importantly, old age.

What are the first signs? – In the beginning, prostate cancer progresses silently. That’s why it’s important to keep exams up to date so your doctor can analyze any changes that may occur without symptoms. “When the first signs start to appear, they tend to be: difficulty urinating, urge to urinate several times,” warns the urologist.

Tests for Diagnosing Prostate Problems – “To assess whether the prostate is healthy, there are some routine tests for men: the digital rectal exam is the most important. Where the doctor identifies the size and shape of the prostate. Another test is the blood dosage of PSA, an enzyme produced by the prostate that tends to increase in the presence of diseases. An ultrasound scan of the prostate can also be done to visualize suspicious nodules “, informs the expert.

Treatment – “While the disease is only in the prostate it is possible to undergo surgery and radiotherapy. In more advanced cases it is necessary to include hormone treatment, as well as radius and surgery. When the cancer has already spread, hormone treatment is the most suitable. . Any doubts about the risks and the most appropriate treatments for your case should be discussed with your doctor, “concludes the doctor.