Prostate cancer is one of the most common conditions in men’s health, but numerous myths persist. Knowing the correct information is essential for prevention and timely diagnosis. Here we debunk some of the most widespread beliefs about this disease.
Who is at risk?
A common misconception is that only older men are susceptible to this type of cancer. While it is true that prevalence increases significantly after age 65, the disease can be diagnosed in younger men.
Symptoms are not always obvious
Many believe that the absence of symptoms is a guarantee of not having cancer. The reality is that in its early stages, prostate cancer often presents no signs or discomfort. When they do appear, they may include:
Difficulty urinating.
Blood in the urine or semen.
These symptoms should be a sign to seek immediate medical attention.
Beyond a Single Type of Cancer
There is no single type of prostate cancer. Adenocarcinoma is the most common, but the disease can also manifest as small cell carcinoma, transitional cell carcinoma, or sarcomas, each with distinct characteristics.
Key Risk Factors
Although smoking is an important risk factor, it is not the only one. The list of risk factors includes:
Race: Some ethnic groups have a higher incidence.
Family history: Genetic predisposition plays a crucial role.
Obesity: Being overweight has also been associated with an increased risk.
Understanding these factors can help you make more informed lifestyle decisions and regular medical checkups.
Source: msn
