Movember – Time to put the spotlight on Men’s Health!

Come November, and we see men across age groups and nationalities growing their beards and moustaches. “Movember” as it is known is an entire month of #noshave! Barring fashion trend, it is in fact an act symbolic to the causes concerning men’s health such as prostate cancer, testicular cancer and mental health. In our mission to help raise awareness about these important topics, today we will share some facts about prostate cancer.

What is Prostate Cancer?

Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers in men. It effects the prostate gland that makes some of the fluid, which forms the semen.  

What do the statistics tell?

With early detection and treatment, there is a higher chance of beating this cancer. Therefore, after the age of 40, it is essential that men proactively take their doctor appointments for yearly cancer examination. The American Cancer Society states that at least 1 in 8 men will be diagnosed with this cancer in their lifetime and for the year 2021, in America alone 34,130 men died due to prostate cancer. With such grave statistics in hand, it is important to know the causes, risks and symptoms that the patients encounter and to keep in mind that prevention of cancer is one of the most significant public health challenges of the 21st century globally.

What are the causes & risk factors of prostate cancer?

The causes of prostate cancer cannot be easily determined. However, many factors such as age, smoking, obesity, family history, genetics and sedentary lifestyle increase the risk of growing cancerous cells in the prostate.

Early detection & tests:
Here are two ways of detecting prostate cancer well ahead of time:

• Prostate-specific antigen (PSA): Checking the PSA levels in blood.
• The digital rectal exam (DRE): In this method, the doctor inserts a gloved, lubricated finger into the rectum to feel the prostate gland.

If you are over 40 years of age, then ask your doctor to carry out an early detection test. Remember, early detection is key!

For training healthcare professionals to understand prostate gland and perform DRE, have a look at the 3B Scientific training tools: Prostate Gland Model with Smart Anatomy and Prostate examination trainer.