How is prostate cancer detected?

Written by Zhou Zi Hua
Oncology
Updated on September 21, 2024
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Digital rectal examination combined with PSA testing is currently recognized as the best screening method for the early detection of prostate cancer. Currently, systematic prostate needle biopsy is the most reliable method for diagnosing prostate cancer. In addition, prostate cancer MRI plays an important role in clinical staging. There is also a whole-body nuclear bone marrow scan that can detect the most common metastatic sites of prostate cancer, including bone metastases.

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How is prostate cancer formed?

The causes of prostate cancer are not yet very clear. According to relevant data analysis, the occurrence of prostate cancer may be related to prostate gonorrhea, infections with viruses or chlamydia, as well as the intensity of sexual activity and the impact of hormones. On the other hand, a high-fat diet and some occupational factors are also somewhat related to the disease. Therefore, the formation of prostate cancer is the result of multifactorial influences including environmental and genetic factors, personal lifestyle habits, and dietary habits, all of which are significantly interconnected.

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How is prostate cancer treated?

The treatment principles of prostate cancer vary with different stages. For clinical stage T1-T2N0M0 prostate cancer, which is early-stage, patients can choose radical prostatectomy or radical radiotherapy. For patients with locally advanced prostate cancer, specifically staged T3 or T4 but without lymph node or distant metastasis, options include radiotherapy combined with hormonal therapy or solely hormonal therapy. For patients with distant metastasis, which indicates advanced-stage prostate cancer, treatment primarily involves hormonal therapy. If hormonal therapy fails, chemotherapy may be utilized. Additionally, for pain caused by bone metastasis, local radiotherapy or radionuclide therapy can be integrated into the comprehensive treatment approach.

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Oncology
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Is chemotherapy for prostate cancer painful?

For patients with advanced prostate cancer, endocrine therapy is primarily used. Chemotherapy is generally chosen when endocrine therapy is resistant and ineffective. The side effects of chemotherapy are similar to those of other chemotherapy treatments. The first is the gastrointestinal side effects, such as nausea, vomiting, decreased appetite, or bloating and abdominal pain. The second is bone marrow suppression, which leads to a decrease in white blood cells and platelets. The side effects of chemotherapy vary with each patient's constitution and other factors. In most cases, with the support of medications for stomach protection, anti-nausea, and increasing white blood cells, the majority of patients can generally tolerate the treatment.

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Written by Zhou Zi Hua
Oncology
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The difference between benign prostatic hyperplasia and prostate cancer.

Prostatic hyperplasia and prostate cancer are sometimes very difficult to distinguish clinically, as both diseases occur in elderly men, can cause lower urinary tract symptoms, and lead to elevated PSA levels. However, prostatic hyperplasia generally has a longer medical history, whereas prostate cancer has a shorter history and progresses more quickly. During a digital rectal exam for prostatic hyperplasia, the gland appears enlarged and the surface is smooth. In contrast, during a prostate exam, the gland may show irregular enlargement, a rough surface, and the tumor feels firm. When these two are difficult to distinguish, considering a prostate biopsy may be advisable.

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Written by Liu Liang
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Can people with prostate cancer eat beef?

Patients with prostate cancer can eat beef. Beef is a high-protein food, and as cancer is a consumptive disease, it is generally advised to enhance nutrition in the diet, such as meats, proteins, vegetables, and fruits to maintain a balanced diet with both meat and vegetables. Avoid junk food, such as pickled vegetables from pickled jars, barbecue items, or excessively oily foods with high fat content. Those should be avoided as much as possible, but other foods, including beef, can be consumed.