A patient discovered he had prostate cancer at 30 years old, as reported by Le Progrès.
The diagnosis came as a shock to the young patient, who stated, The word frightened me greatly.
according to reporting from Progress. November corresponds to the month dedicated to men’s health awareness and specifically prostate cancer, as reported by TF1 Info.
Medical experts emphasize that prostate conditions are common among older adults. General practitioner Dr. Jean-Marc Sène explained on TF1 Info that an aging prostate often grows and compresses the urethra. This condition, known as benign prostatic hyperplasia, affects 50 percent of men over 60 years old.
Dr. Sène noted on TF1 Info, We need to think about the prostate, but not necessarily the worst-case scenario.
To explain the function, the physician compared the urethra to a straw held in his hand, stating, Over time, the prostate tends to enlarge and constrict the urethra.
with his hand representing the prostate. The gland is roughly the size of a chestnut.
Benign prostatic hyperplasia is non-cancerous and does not transform into cancer, though it frequently causes night-time urination, according to TF1 Info. Dr. Sène noted that patients should specifically watch out for fever, burning sensations during urination, or severe trouble passing urine.
Dr. Oscar Gbeke explained to The Nation of Benin that the condition is linked to the prolonged action of male hormones, specifically dihydrotestosterone derived from testosterone transformation. Dr. Gbeke stated, The word “benign” is crucial. It means that it is not cancer.
noting that the increase in volume does not provoke metastases.
In contrast, prostate cancer often develops silently on the side of the gland without impacting early urine flow, TF1 Info reported. Dr. A.S. Oscar Gbeke explained to The Nation of Benin that malignant cells can spread to bones and neighboring organs if left untreated, distinguishing the disease from non-cancerous adenomas.
Dr. Gbeke recalled, Prostate cancer is a potentially serious disease that can spread to bones and nearby organs if not treated in time.
At a more advanced stage, urinary troubles, blood in urine or semen, and bone pain can appear.
Medical professionals recommend standard screening for men starting at age 50 through a clinical exam and a blood test measuring prostate-specific antigen levels, according to TF1 Info. Individuals with a family history of the disease should begin screening earlier at age 45, the outlet noted. Dr. Sène recommended visiting a doctor for a blood test and clinical exam, noting that it is the most widespread cancer among men.
Physicians utilize tools including rectal examinations, blood tests, MRIs, and biopsies to evaluate abnormal growths, The Nation of Benin reported. Treatment paths range from active surveillance and medication to surgery, radiation therapy, and hormonotherapy depending on cancer staging. Dr. Gbeke recalled the importance of not confusing the two affections, stating that only a medical evaluation allows determining the origin of troubles and orienting the patient toward the appropriate treatment.
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