Movember: Raising awareness for men's health
Every November, the importance of men's health is highlighted through the global movement, Movember. During this time, you might see moustaches sprouting up everywhere, but at the heart of Movember lies a deeper cause: to confront the most significant health issues affecting men globally—mental health, suicide prevention, prostate cancer, and testicular cancer.
Among these, prostate cancer emerges as a prominent concern. As men age, prostate cancer can become a significant threat, despite its small walnut-like appearance. Understanding this cancer, its risks, and the importance of regular screenings is key to helping mitigate risk and keep our men healthy.
What is the prostate?
Nestled just below the bladder, the prostate plays a crucial role in reproductive health. It produces fluids that are vital to the transportation of sperm and it envelops the urethra, the conduit for both urine and semen. However, when cells in this gland spiral out of control, prostate cancer can take shape.
Localised prostate cancer confines itself to the gland, while advanced stages of the disease cause it to spread to nearby tissues or metastasise to other body parts. It’s difficult to pinpoint the exact cause of prostate cancer, but factors such as age, genetics, and family history all play a role in the predisposition to this condition.
What are the risk factors?
Age is one of the biggest risk factors when it comes to prostate cancer; the likelihood of being diagnosed surges as men cross the age of 50. However, genetics and ancestry are also risk factors, with studies showing that men of African descent possess genetic and biological markers that make them more susceptible to prostate cancer compared to their Asian or European counterparts.
Whether or not you have a family history of prostate cancer, or your race makes you more vulnerable, it’s important to stay vigilant, especially as you age. Prostate cancer is treatable, but it needs to be detected early for you to have better health outcomes. Undergoing regular screenings as early as 40 years old will help you keep on top of your prostate health.
What are the symptoms of prostate cancer?
Unfortunately, prostate cancer often masks its presence, stealthily progressing without any obvious symptoms. Only as it advances might you see telltale signs like urinary irregularities, erectile dysfunction, or pelvic discomfort.
Enter the crucial role of screening. There are currently two types of prostate screening available—the Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) test, and a Digital Rectal Examination (DRE). While uncomfortable, these screenings allow for early detection, intervention, and better health outcomes.
More than just a moustache
Movember prompts us to engage in open conversations about men's health. It reminds us to look at our family histories, engage in timely health checks, and shatter the stigma surrounding discussions about men’s health.
While some risk factors are out of our control, certain lifestyle choices have considerable influence. Though more research is needed, fostering a balanced diet and an active lifestyle might go a long way towards mitigating prostate cancer risks while nurturing overall mental and physical well-being.
Movember isn't just a month—it's a movement. It's a catalyst for change, a reminder to pause, reflect, and act so we can pave the path towards a healthier, more resilient future for men worldwide.
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