The prostate is one of the sexual glands present in the male reproductive system, which also includes the testicles, scrotum and penis, as well as the other organs and ducts that serve to transport, store and nourish the sperm itself.
The prostate is shaped like a walnut, and is approximately three to four centimeters in size at its widest position; between four and six centimeters long and between two and three centimeters thick.
Myths about prostate cancer
- Prostate cancer occurs only in the elderly. False. Although it usually affects men over the age of 65, more and more cases are being diagnosed in younger patients.
- Prostate cancer has a poor prognosis. False. Most patients with prostate cancer have a very good prognosis, since they are usually localized tumors in the prostate.
- Prostatitis is synonymous with cancer. False. Prostatitis is an inflammation of the prostate gland, and its origin can have many causes, each of which has a different specific treatment.
- An elevated PSA level is synonymous with cancer. False. It is possible that an elevated PSA level is indicative of prostate cancer, but it is not a specific symptom of cancer. PSA levels can rise for a variety of reasons: urinary tract infection, prostate infection, benign prostatic hyperplasia, or after ejaculation.
Prostate check-ups, key to prevention
Annually, about half a million men are diagnosed with prostate cancer in Europe. Prostate cancer has overtaken colorectal cancer as the second most common cause of cancer death in men today. In 2018, more than one hundred thousand European men died of prostate cancer, so it is not an indolent disease.
Medical check-ups, whether general or specific, seem to be fundamental tools to take care of health. It is true that men tend to take less care of themselves than women, and they are also more reluctant to undergo preventive tests. The recommendation would be to have more regular check-ups and screenings, especially after the age of 50.
For more information on prostate cancer, consult a urologist or an andrologist.