Prostate cancer is a form of cancer that affects the prostate gland. 

Prostate is a small walnut-shaped gland found in males located near the bladder. It is responsible for producing the seminal fluid that nourishes and carries the sperm cells. 

Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers found in men. It usually grows slowly and is confined to the prostate gland. Whereas, in some cases, cancer can be aggressive and can spread to different locations. 

As misconceptions are common about everything around us, there are a number of such myths associated with prostate cancer as well. It is important that you do not fall prey to such myths or misconceptions. 

Let’s take a look at some of the common misconceptions about prostate cancer:

Myth 1. Prostate cancer is an old man’s disease.

Fact. Though prostate cancer is more common in men above the age of 50, it can affect young adults as well. Your risk of developing the condition increases with advancing age. 

Other risk factors of the condition include your family history, being overweight, your overall health and lifestyle.

Myth 2. If you don’t have any symptoms, you don’t have prostate cancer.

Fact. Not showing symptoms does not mean that you don't have the condition. 

Prostate cancer generally does not show any symptoms during the early stages. It is usually diagnosed during routine health check-ups. 

Symptoms start showing as the disease progresses. Common symptoms of prostate cancer include trouble urinating, blood in urine or semen and problems with getting or maintaining an erection.

Myth 3. As prostate cancer is slow-growing, you don’t need to worry about.

Fact. It is true that prostate cancer usually grows slowly and in most cases, it stays confined to the prostate gland. 

However, in some cases, the cancer cells grow aggressively spreading to the nearby organs and tissues.  

It can also spread to the other parts of the body through your blood vessels and lymph nodes. Therefore, early detection and treatment are crucial in the case of prostate cancer to avoid complications.

Myth 4. If prostate cancer doesn’t run in your family, the odds aren’t great that you will get it? 

Fact. Having a family history of prostate cancer increases your risk of developing the condition. What you should know is that your family history is not the only factor that increases your risk of prostate cancer.

Your lifestyle, general health, body weight and advancing age are all common risk factors to consider when you look at the risk of developing prostate cancer.

Myth 5. The PSA test is a cancer test.

Fact. PSA test or Prostate-Specific Antigen test is a diagnostic test that helps detect the levels of prostate-specific antigen in your blood. 

It is a kind of protein made by the prostate gland and is produced as a response to a number of problems. 

It could be an inflammation, infection (prostatitis), enlargement of the prostate gland (benign prostatic hyperplasia) or, even possibly, cancer. 

Think of the PSA as a first alert smoke alarm, instead of a fire alarm. The PSA test may be the first step in the diagnostic process for cancer. It has made detection of cancer in its early stages easier, improving the prognosis.

 

Disclaimer: This article is written by the Practitioner for informational and educational purposes only. The content presented on this page should not be considered as a substitute for medical expertise. Please "DO NOT SELF-MEDICATE" and seek professional help regarding any health conditions or concerns. Practo will not be responsible for any act or omission arising from the interpretation of the content present on this page.