When talking to a young man about prostate cancer, it’s not uncommon to encounter the misconception that it exclusively afflicts the elderly. However, while the average age of diagnosis hovers around 66, recent statistics paint a different picture. Astonishingly, 1 in 38 men aged between 40 and 59 will confront prostate cancer. Furthermore, recent research has illuminated a dramatic 600% uptick in prostate cancer diagnoses among men under 50 over the past two decades. Contrary to prevailing beliefs, prostate cancer can manifest in younger males, often exhibiting a more aggressive and risky nature.
Here are five facts young men need to know about prostate cancer:
1. Early prostate cancer has no symptoms
If a man is having symptoms of prostate cancer, the disease is most likely at an advanced stage. Symptoms possibly indicating prostate cancer all men should be aware of include the following:
- Frequent urinating or trouble urinating
- Difficulty starting or stopping a urine stream
- Blood in semen
- Pain or discomfort in the pelvic area
- Bone pain
2. Family history makes prostate cancer more likely
Men who have a family history of prostate cancer are at a higher risk of developing the disease than men without such a history. Estimates show that the risk is around three times higher for those with a family history. Young men with a family history of prostate cancer should begin their prostate cancer screenings early. The chances of a successful treatment increase significantly with early detection.
3. Prostate cancer in young men is more aggressive and more life-threatening
Older men are more likely to be diagnosed with prostate cancer, and when it is, it typically is a form of prostate cancer that grows slowly and is not as aggressive. Many men diagnosed with early-stage prostate cancer eventually die from other causes. In its early stages, prostate cancer often has few, if any, symptoms. As a result, if aggressive prostate cancer is diagnosed in men younger than 50, it may have usually already progressed to later-stage cancer and is, therefore, more difficult to treat.
4. Diet quality is important
Eating high amounts of red meat may increase a man’s risk of developing prostate cancer. Other foods that appear to increase a man’s risk include fried and processed foods that can also accelerate the cancer’s progression. Making more of an effort to include foods such as fruits, vegetables, beans, whole grains, and lean meat on their plate can have significant health benefits for men, reducing prostate cancer including other serious chronic diseases like type 2 diabetes or high blood pressure.
5. Physical activity matters too
Regular exercise has numerous benefits for a man’s overall health. In terms of prostate health, staying fit and in shape can be an effective preventive measure for reducing the risk of prostate cancer. Studies indicate that men who are overweight have a higher chance of developing prostate cancer. The likelihood of encountering health issues escalates notably among men whose body mass index (BMI) exceeds 30, a classification commonly associated with obesity. This information is crucial for healthcare professionals and policymakers to understand the importance of addressing obesity and promoting healthy lifestyles to reduce the incidence of prostate cancer among men.
In conclusion
It is recommended that all young men should have an annual physical examination with their doctor. As young men approach the age of 40, discussions with their healthcare provider about also include prostate health. This discussion will help them learn about the risks and benefits of prostate cancer screening.
Dr. David Samadi is the Director of Men’s Health and Urologic Oncology at St. Francis Hospital in Long Island. He’s a renowned and highly successful board certified Urologic Oncologist Expert and Robotic Surgeon in New York City, regarded as one of the leading prostate surgeons in the U.S., with a vast expertise in prostate cancer treatment and Robotic-Assisted Laparoscopic Prostatectomy. Dr. Samadi is a medical contributor to NewsMax TV and is also the author of The Ultimate MANual, Dr. Samadi’s Guide to Men’s Health and Wellness, available online both on Amazon and Barnes & Noble. Visit Dr. Samadi’s websites at robotic oncology and prostate cancer 911.
