The Blue Truth about… Prostate Cancer in Men

Here's a quick guide to prostate cancer, and what you need to know about a very serious male cancer.

Continuing our guide to male cancers as part of the Blue September initiative, this week it is the turn of prostate cancer. The old phrase out of sight, out of mind definitely applies here but there is nothing to be afraid of when  it comes to both watching the symptoms and getting yourself checked out. Firstly, what is it? Prostate cancer is a slow growing, malignant cancer that develops in the walnut-sized prostate gland. The chance of developing prostate cancer increases with age and with a family history. And the symptoms include; Pain or burning when urinating Difficulty in, or increased frequency of urinating Blood in the urine or semen. What can you do to avoid it? There’s no proven prostate cancer prevention strategy. But you may reduce your risk of prostate cancer by making healthy choices including: Eating a healthy low fat diet with lots of fruit and veg and reduce your red or processed meat intake. Drink alcohol in moderation, if at all. If you choose to drink alcohol, limit yourself to no more than a drink or two each day. Maintain a healthy weight and exercise regularly as men with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher are considered obese. Being obese increases your risk of cancer includingprostate cancer. Talk to your doctor about your risks or any concerns you might have. If you experience any of these symptoms, don’t panic! They may be a sign that you have something other than prostate cancer but it’s important to get checked out by your GP. Seriously, just go get it checked out.