Taking Vitamins During Cancer Treatment
5 Warning Signs Of Bad Prostate Health
The early warning signs of bad prostate health serve as critical alerts for men to seek medical attention
In the realm of men's health, the prostate gland plays a pivotal role yet often remains an overlooked aspect until issues arise. It's crucial to acknowledge and act upon the early warning signs of bad prostate health to prevent complications and maintain overall well-being. Prostate issues can manifest in various forms, ranging from benign enlargement to more severe conditions like prostate cancer. Understanding these warning signs is the first step toward proactive health management. This article aims to shed light on the five critical warning signs of compromised prostate health, offering insights into symptoms, potential causes and the importance of timely medical consultation.
Urinary changes: The first red flagOne of the most common early warning signs of poor prostate health involves changes in urinary function. This can manifest as increased frequency — especially at night — difficulty starting urination, a weak or interrupted flow or an urgent need to urinate with little output. These symptoms can be indicative of prostate enlargement, also known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), a condition that affects the majority of men as they age. It's crucial to monitor these changes closely and consult a healthcare provider to rule out more serious conditions.
Understanding prostate's role in urinary healthThe prostate gland surrounds the urethra, the tube through which urine exits the body. As the prostate enlarges, it can press against the urethra, affecting urinary flow and bladder control. This explains why urinary changes are often the first sign of prostate issues.
Discomfort and pain: Signals not to ignoreDiscomfort in the pelvic area or lower back and pain during ejaculation can signal prostate health issues. While these symptoms can have various causes, they are commonly associated with prostatitis, an inflammation of the prostate gland. Prostatitis can affect men of all ages and can be acute or chronic. Chronic prostatitis, in particular, can lead to significant discomfort and a reduction in the quality of life.
The importance of addressing painPain and discomfort related to the prostate can significantly impact daily activities and mental health. Early diagnosis and treatment can alleviate pain, manage symptoms, and prevent further complications.
Blood in urine or semen: A warning signThe presence of blood in urine or semen, while potentially alarming, is a symptom that requires immediate medical attention. Though often associated with less serious conditions, it can also be an early warning sign of prostate cancer. It's essential to undergo a thorough evaluation to determine the cause and to rule out serious conditions.
The significance of early detectionEarly detection of any condition — including prostate cancer — significantly improves the chances of successful treatment. Recognizing and acting upon the presence of blood in urine or semen can be a crucial step in early diagnosis.
Erectile dysfunction: A possible indicatorErectile dysfunction (ED) can be a complex issue with various contributing factors, including heart disease, diabetes and more. However, ED can also be related to prostate health issues. The prostate gland plays a role in sexual function, and conditions affecting the prostate, such as BPH or prostatitis, can lead to ED. Understanding this link is vital for men experiencing ED to seek comprehensive medical evaluations that include prostate health.
Breaking the silence on EDDespite its common occurrence, many men hesitate to discuss ED with their health care providers. Breaking this silence is crucial for addressing underlying health issues, including those related to the prostate.
Reduced ejaculatory fluid: A subtle clueA decrease in ejaculatory fluid can be another subtle sign of prostate health issues. The prostate gland contributes to the production of semen, and changes in prostate health can affect semen volume. While this symptom alone does not indicate a serious condition, it can be a sign of underlying issues when observed alongside other symptoms.
The broader context of reproductive healthChanges in ejaculatory fluid, while often overlooked, can provide insights into a man's overall reproductive health. It's important to consider these changes in the broader context of health and well-being.
Recognize the warning signsThe early warning signs of bad prostate health, ranging from urinary changes to erectile dysfunction, serve as critical alerts for men to seek medical attention. Recognizing and responding to these signs is not just about addressing immediate discomfort but also about preventing more serious health issues down the line. It's essential for men to maintain open communication with their health care providers about prostate health and to undergo regular checkups as recommended. The path to maintaining good prostate health involves awareness, vigilance and proactive management. By understanding these warning signs, men can take significant strides toward safeguarding their health and ensuring a better quality of life.
While discussing topics like prostate health can sometimes feel uncomfortable, it's a necessary conversation for men's health and well-being. Prostate issues are manageable, especially with early detection and appropriate care. Remember, taking action at the first sign of trouble can make a substantial difference in outcomes. Men and other people with prostates of all ages should prioritize their prostate health as a critical component of their overall health strategy.
This story was created using AI technology.
O.J. Simpson, 76, Dies From Prostate Cancer — Signs, Symptoms And What Men Should Know About Their Health
This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Contact a qualified medical professional before engaging in any physical activity, or making any changes to your diet, medication or lifestyle.
O.J. Simpson, 76, has passed away to prostate cancer. (Photo by Jason Bean-Pool/Getty Images)
Former NFL player O.J. Simpson has died at the age of 76, after suffering from prostate cancer. Simpson's family took to X (formerly Twitter) to announce his passing on Wednesday, saying he died on April 10, "surrounded by his children and grandchildren."
Simpson became an infamous American figure in the 1990s when he was trialled for the double-murder of his ex-wife, Nicole Brown Simpson and her friend Ron Goldman — for which he was later acquitted.
His cancer diagnosis, however, has been kept a secret. In February, a local Las Vegas outlet reported he was diagnosed with prostate cancer and was undergoing chemotherapy in the area, citing only sources.
In May of 2023, Simpson shared a video where he briefly mentioned he "recently unfortunately caught cancer," adding he had to "do the chemo thing." He added he began using marijuana to cope with the nausea, though he said he barely experienced nausea at all. He then mentioned he was "over the chemo," after having both cancer and COVID-19 at the same time.
At the time, however, he did not reveal what kind of cancer it was and later denied being in hospice.
For many men, the prostate is often something that remains a mystery when it comes to their health.
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Between the organ's purpose and location in the body, to when you should seek help for problems or how to determine what issue you might have, the prostate can be confusing. Luckily, there's a swath of information to help you learn more about the gland, and many celebrities and high-profile figures are helping spread awareness of possible prostate issues.
In late January, King Charles underwent surgery to treat his enlarged prostate, after being diagnosed with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Other well-known figures have also opened up about their prostate problems, including stars like Eric Braden, Rod Stewart and Ben Stiller who have gotten candid about prostate cancer over the past several years.
O.J. Simpson mentioned he 'caught cancer' back in the first half of 2023, but kept his health a secret in the past year. (Images via Getty)
Dr. Danny Vesprini, a radiation oncologist at Toronto's Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, told Yahoo Canada in 2022 that while the prostate isn't large (about the size of a walnut), its nature and location "certainly causes lots of problems."
By the year 2040, annual prostate cancer cases worldwide are expected to double, with annual deaths projected to rise by 85 per cent. Read on to learn more about the prostate, its common issues and how you might be able to prevent discomfort.
What is the prostate?The prostate is a small, rubbery gland that produces enzymes and proteins in the body. It's part of the reproductive system and it's located deep inside the groin, between the base of the penis and the rectum.
"The main goal of the prostate is that it produces between 60 to 80 per cent of a man's ejaculate and, in particular, creates an enzyme called prostate specific antigen, or PSA," Vesprini explained. "What that enzyme does is liquify the coagulum in the vagina to help with reproduction. So it allows sperm to swim more freely in the vagina."
While it's an important organ for procreation, it's not one that's necessary for life, according to the Prostate Cancer Foundation.
What are the symptoms of prostate cancer?Urology, treatment of men's diseases and prostatitis. Consultation of a male urologist for a patient with prostatitis. Anatomical model of male reproductive system, close-up
Prostate cancer can appear without any signs or symptoms in its early stages, according to the Canadian Cancer Society, and its symptoms can be caused by other conditions.
The signs or symptoms of prostate cancer can include:
more frequent urination, especially at night
a strong or sudden urge to urinate
weak, slow or interrupted urine stream
being unable to empty the bladder completely
having difficulty controlling the bladder (incontinence)
blood in the urine or semen
burning or pain during urination
discomfort or pain when sitting, caused by an enlarged prostate
painful ejaculation
trouble getting an erection (erectile dysfunction)
pain or stiffness in back, hips or pelvis that doesn't go away
fatigue
This cancer can also, in rare cases, cause high blood pressure, fatigue and weight loss — known as paraneoplastic syndrome — as well as lead to kidney failure and spinal cord compression.
What's the most common prostate problem?According to Vesprini, the most common problem most men experience is that the prostate continues growing. While it might be the size of a walnut or ping pong ball in younger men, it typically starts to grow when men reach their late 40s and early 50s, according to the Canadian Cancer Society.
"It's one of the few parts of the body that still grows as we get old. And as men get older, they start to have more difficulties with urinating. That's why older men get up to pee at night because they aren't emptying their bladder sufficiently during the day," he noted, adding men can experience a slower flow of their urine and may "start to spray a bit."
Although these symptoms aren't serious medical issues, Vesprini suggested they can impact a man's confidence and quality of life.
"As we get older and the prostate gets bigger, the bladder may not empty fully and the flow starts to slow down, which is annoying but it's common and there's lots of remedies," Vesprini added.
The Canadian Cancer Society also indicated the prostate is also close to the digestive and reproductive systems, meaning problems with the organ can impact those parts of the body, too.
Remedies for prostate issuesIf you're hoping to alleviate symptoms for non-cancerous conditions like BPH, the most common thing to do is to change your daily habits.
"Stop drinking in the evening or don't drink lots of fluid before bed, which lessens the amount of times you're urinating at night," Vesprini suggested.
If that doesn't provide relief, there are medications that help the bladder empty more sufficiently, or medications that shrink the prostate over time.
"For more serious cases, there are surgical procedures that can be done, but it has risks," Vesprini added.
For prostatitis, the oncologist said anti-inflammatories like ibuprofen or Advil can sometimes help, or using antibiotics may settle things down.
"Some men find that different foods or certain activities also trigger symptoms and thus they avoid those, but that's unique to each person and you'll have to go through a trial and error process to figure it out," he explained.
Can I prevent prostate issues?"You can't really prevent prostate problems, and something like BPH is just a natural evolution," Vesprini said. "The only way to prevent it from happening is to have no testosterone, which is what triggers the prostate to grow over time."
He added since urinary problems and BPH are normal parts of aging, it's abnormal for a man in his 70s or 80s to not have experienced any of these problems. In general, the doctor said in order to be your best self, you should work towards having a healthy heart, having a good diet and exercising frequently.
"It's very important to keep on top of your overall health, and don't turn to quick fixes," Vesprini concluded. "Be aware of any changes in your body, and get screened if you suspect any issues."
What is prostatitis and BPH?In addition to common urinary problems, serious conditions such as prostatitis and benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) can also affect the prostate.
Prostatitis is the inflammation of the prostate that can cause symptoms like painful urination and general discomfort in the groin, pelvis or genitals. According to
"It can be very uncomfortable and disruptive by causing pain or sexual dysfunction," Vesprini shared.
On the other hand, BPH, or an overly enlarged prostate, usually affects men over age 40. As it grows, the prostate can block the flow of urine and cause bladder, urinary tract or kidney problems.
"Signs of BPH are difficulty urinating, a weak stream, or having a frequent need to urinate," explained Vesprini.
Drinking less fluids in the evening can help ease BPH symptoms. (Photo via Getty Images)
How does BPH differ from prostate cancer?Prostate cancer is another serious issue related to the organ. It's a disease where malignant cells form in the tissues of the prostate. While there are many overlapping symptoms between BPH and prostate cancer, they are two separate conditions, and BPH will not develop into cancer. Below are some of the symptoms between the two conditions:
Prostate cancer symptoms
BPH symptoms
• Problems urinating
• Trouble starting a urinary stream
• Slow or weak urinary stream
• Urinating frequently
• Needing to urinate more often
• Feeling like the bladder isn't fully empty
• Blood in the urine or semen
• Strong or sudden urge to go
• Difficulty getting an erection
• Pushing or straining to begin urinating
• Pain in the hips, back or chest
• Difficulty getting an erection
• Weakness or numbness in the legs or feet
• Difficulty ejaculating
• Loss of bladder or bowel control
• Blood in the urine
According to Advanced Urology, the main symptom that distinguishes prostate cancer from BPH is pain in the hips and back. Typically, that's a result of cancer spreading or pushing on the spinal cord, which isn't experienced by BPH patients. Instead, BPH usually has more symptoms related to urination, since the enlarged prostate impacts the urinary system.
Still, it's best to see a health-care professional if you're experiencing these symptoms, as it's best to catch cancer early.
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'It Is That Silent Killer': Doctors, Survivors Encourage Men To Get Tested For Prostate Cancer
Men's health is back in the spotlight around the globe. King Charles III underwent an enlarged prostate procedure around the same time U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Auston was given a prostate cancer diagnosis along with surgery.Those who are both fighting and treating prostate issues are asking all men to step up and take the proper steps now for, hopefully, a better outcome later."I'm here 14 years later to let you know early detection saves lives," Marcus Brooks said.Brooks is a prostate cancer survivor and remembers when he got the news."Okay. So what's my next step? What do I need to do now to stay alive? I had no symptoms. I had no symptoms whatsoever," he said.Brooks was at a church event where PSA tests were being given out for free. He got the call a few days later that his numbers had a cause for concern. That PSA, or prostate specific antigen, test caught the cancer early. In his case, no invasive treatment was necessary. He now gets annual checkups and advocates for men to take care of themselves."It's just a blood test. And that's what saved my life."The prostate gland primarily deals with urinary and sexual functions which can make it hard for men to talk about if they're having any issues. Often, the first thought of getting a prostate checked out is a rectal exam, but a PSA can come first before moving on to other forms of diagnosis and investigation."It's a difficult conversation. And men are, unfortunately, pretty shy about it. They don't go to their doctors. They don't want to talk about it. It's a very private issue," Dr. Stephen Kappa, Vice President of The Urology Group, said.Kappa says the stats tell the story.About 250,000 men are diagnosed yearly with prostate cancer. Around 30,000 died.One in eight men will get a confirmed diagnosis.For Black men, it's one in six who are also twice as likely to die from it than their white counterparts."I start the conversation really saying, 'You're not alone,' and, 'Thank you for coming in and getting screened.' This is absolutely, critically important," Kappa said.Executive Director of the Cincinnati Cancer Foundation, Steve Abbott, fights the battle of cancer awareness, but also continues his own battle against metastatic prostate cancer. He has a family history of prostate cancer. He got tested early, at age 44, and got good news. On August 2, 2013, everything changed."I turned 50. I went and got tested and my PSA had gone from 0.4 to 10.8, which was kind of a frightening trajectory in that amount of time because PSA tends to creep up. It doesn't tend to shoot up," Abbott said.After having his prostate removed, lingering cells in later tests showed the cancer, while minimal, was still present in Abbott's body and had spread."We knew then we were able to conclusively know that it was going to be an incurable version of prostate cancer, incurable but treatable."With advancements in radiation treatment, and chemo and hormone therapy, the difficult diagnosis isn't letting the cancer stop him."I can either go into a hole and not talk about it and just kind of try to get through my life as best I can with it, or I can turn this into a cause and really get out there in front of people and talk about it," Abbott said.The message to men continues to be to put your pride aside and talk about your health."You can go get a blood test if nothing else. That simple, that will give you at least an indication of what your PSA is that might at least put you on notice that I need to get this checked into further," Abbott said."I want to emphasize again to men, if we catch it early, if we spot it early, we can treat it successfully and get you back to a normal life," Dr. Kappa said."It is that silent killer. Men get tested. It's only a blood test. And we go from there and I stand on and I advocate early detection saves lives," Brooks said.The first screening for all men should start at 50 to get a baseline PSA blood test. For black men, and anyone with a family history of prostate cancer, should start at 40.
CINCINNATI —Men's health is back in the spotlight around the globe. King Charles III underwent an enlarged prostate procedure around the same time U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Auston was given a prostate cancer diagnosis along with surgery.
Those who are both fighting and treating prostate issues are asking all men to step up and take the proper steps now for, hopefully, a better outcome later.
"I'm here 14 years later to let you know early detection saves lives," Marcus Brooks said.
Brooks is a prostate cancer survivor and remembers when he got the news.
"Okay. So what's my next step? What do I need to do now to stay alive? I had no symptoms. I had no symptoms whatsoever," he said.
Brooks was at a church event where PSA tests were being given out for free. He got the call a few days later that his numbers had a cause for concern. That PSA, or prostate specific antigen, test caught the cancer early. In his case, no invasive treatment was necessary.
He now gets annual checkups and advocates for men to take care of themselves.
"It's just a blood test. And that's what saved my life."
The prostate gland primarily deals with urinary and sexual functions which can make it hard for men to talk about if they're having any issues. Often, the first thought of getting a prostate checked out is a rectal exam, but a PSA can come first before moving on to other forms of diagnosis and investigation.
"It's a difficult conversation. And men are, unfortunately, pretty shy about it. They don't go to their doctors. They don't want to talk about it. It's a very private issue," Dr. Stephen Kappa, Vice President of The Urology Group, said.
Kappa says the stats tell the story.
About 250,000 men are diagnosed yearly with prostate cancer. Around 30,000 died.
One in eight men will get a confirmed diagnosis.
For Black men, it's one in six who are also twice as likely to die from it than their white counterparts.
"I start the conversation really saying, 'You're not alone,' and, 'Thank you for coming in and getting screened.' This is absolutely, critically important," Kappa said.
Executive Director of the Cincinnati Cancer Foundation, Steve Abbott, fights the battle of cancer awareness, but also continues his own battle against metastatic prostate cancer. He has a family history of prostate cancer.
He got tested early, at age 44, and got good news. On August 2, 2013, everything changed.
"I turned 50. I went and got tested and my PSA had gone from 0.4 to 10.8, which was kind of a frightening trajectory in that amount of time because PSA tends to creep up. It doesn't tend to shoot up," Abbott said.
After having his prostate removed, lingering cells in later tests showed the cancer, while minimal, was still present in Abbott's body and had spread.
"We knew then we were able to conclusively know that it was going to be an incurable version of prostate cancer, incurable but treatable."
With advancements in radiation treatment, and chemo and hormone therapy, the difficult diagnosis isn't letting the cancer stop him.
"I can either go into a hole and not talk about it and just kind of try to get through my life as best I can with it, or I can turn this into a cause and really get out there in front of people and talk about it," Abbott said.
The message to men continues to be to put your pride aside and talk about your health.
"You can go get a blood test if nothing else. That simple, that will give you at least an indication of what your PSA is that might at least put you on notice that I need to get this checked into further," Abbott said.
"I want to emphasize again to men, if we catch it early, if we spot it early, we can treat it successfully and get you back to a normal life," Dr. Kappa said.
"It is that silent killer. Men get tested. It's only a blood test. And we go from there and I stand on and I advocate early detection saves lives," Brooks said.
The first screening for all men should start at 50 to get a baseline PSA blood test. For black men, and anyone with a family history of prostate cancer, should start at 40.
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