men's health and cancer risks

Occurring more frequently after age 45 and by age 80, prostate cancer is the most common cancer found in men. It is estimated that half the men found to have cancer of the prostate have an early form of the disease that has not spread outside the prostate gland. If the cancer is not discovered early, it may spread to other parts of the body.

To determine if one has prostate cancer, a blood test along with a rectal exam is performed. If cancer is suspected, your doctor may refer you to an urologist or oncologist who will recommend a biopsy of the gland. An ultrasound and x-ray of the kidneys and bladder may also be recommended. If the biopsy is positive, a CT scan will be performed to determine if the cancer has spread to the bones.

Depending upon the man's age, overall health, and whether or not sexual function is to be preserved; may define the course of treatment. So too, if the disease has spread, other options will be considered. If, for example, the cancer is localized within the prostate; it may be removed. The downside is that removal of the prostate may cause impotence. However, there are surgical procedures wherein the nerves which control the ability to have erections can be preserved.

As mentioned earlier, the symptoms of prostate cancer may not reveal themselves for years, but if they do occur they would include: urinating many times during the night; unable to urinate; burning and pain during urination; blood in the urine; painful ejaculations; and pain in the lower back.

The other condition which may mirror prostate cancer is prostatitis. This is an inflammation of the prostate glad, and is cause by a urinary tract infection which has spread to the prostate. Accompanied by fever, chills, and pain around the base of the penis and behind the scrotum, you may have an urge to move your bowels or may find it difficult to urinate. Antibiotics are the recommended course of treatment.

For more information on prostate cancer; there is a plethora of resources available on the National Cancer Institute's website at www.cancer.gov/prostate/ or you can visit your local library or book store and learn as much as you can about this disease. It seems there are so many hidden diseases affecting men, most of which cannot be detected early. But in this case, having rectal exams frequently can make all the difference in ascertaining if you have a prostate problem.

Common to men who are young to middle age, testicular cancer is curable if detected early. However, if untreated it can spread to the lymph nodes in the abdomen, chest; neck; and finally to the lungs. There seems to be no connection between the two testicles and thus the disease is unlikely to spread from one to the other.

The symptom of testicular cancer is the detection of a lump in the testicle. Because the lump grows slowly, you may not be aware of it. Therefore, you need to perform self-examination of the testicles regularly. After a bath or shower, hold each testicle with both hands, and gently roll it between your fingers and thumb. Feel the surface of each testicle to search for any lump or swelling. If you find a lump or swelling, call for an appointment to see your physician.

Also noteworthy to mention is that swelling in the scrotum may not signify any danger. There is often small, insignificant swelling which occurs. However, a lump which is detected in the testicle is a matter that does require a biopsy.

If it is determined you have cancer of the testicle, surgery would be required to remove the diseased testicle. You need not worry about fertility or potency, as the other testicle is fully functioning. In addition, radiation or chemotherapy may be required as well. Moreover, if the cancer has advanced to the lymph nodes, surgery would need to be performed to remove the nearby lymph nodes for further examination.

It should also be noted that there are other conditions which may cause lumps in the testicle. For example: cysts, inflammation or physical injury may cause fluid to build up in or around the testicles. So too, enlarged veins can cause swelling in the scrotum. A bacterial infection may cause inflammation of the testicle; or in some cases, having the mumps can also be a contributing factor. If you detect any abnormality, check with your doctor just to be safe.

While the cause of testicular cancer is not known, there are certain measures you can take to maintain your health and immune system after surgery. A diet filled with protein is essential; exercise regularly; and avoid stress.

When anyone hears the word "cancer," it is most difficult to deal with; not just the word itself, but the anticipation of not knowing what may eventually occur. Cancer research has produced amazing results, and there is no reason to think that testicular cancer - when caught early enough - can't be treated. For men especially, testicular cancer has different connotations which invites denial; worry; and questions the ability to perform.

Once again, having testicular cancer neither makes you infertile or impotent. Once you remove negative thoughts from your mind, you are well on your way to physical, mental and emotional good health.