Prostate Health - it’s a topic that is still not talked about enough

Prostate Health

Prostate cancer – it’s a topic that is still not talked about enough, yet continues to be the most commonly diagnosed cancer affecting Australian men.  In fact, more men die of prostate cancer than women die of breast cancer in this country.

If you think your staff aren’t at risk, think again. You see, 1 in 7 men will develop prostate cancer by age 75, that figure includes plenty of younger men too. According to the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia, men over age 50, or 40 with a family history of the disease should talk to their GPs about testing for prostate cancer on an annual basis.

What is your prostate?

The prostate is part of the male reproductive system, a walnut-sized organ that sits just below the bladder. Its main function is to add seminal fluid when a man ejaculates, via the urethra. 

There are several types of prostate issues men can experience including:

Prostatitis: A non-cancerous (benign) inflammation of the prostate. This condition can often be cleared up with antibiotics.

Benign enlargement: A non-life-threatening condition in which the prostate gets bigger and may cause problems with urinating. 

Prostatodynia: A chronic pain of the pelvis that is usually treated with a simple course of antibiotics and anti-inflammatories. 

Prostate cancer: Can appear without any symptoms, especially if it’s in the early stages of development. However, there are several signs to be aware of:

• Problems urinating – this can include urinating more often than normal, having difficulty urinating, having an urgent sensation to urinate or getting up several times in the night to urinate
• Painful ejaculation or urination
• Blood in the urine or semen
• Decreased libido (sex drive) or reduced ability to achieve an erection
• Bone pain in the pelvis region (lower back, hips or ribs)
• Incontinence (loss of bladder control).

A range of tests can help diagnose prostate cancer including blood tests, a Digital Rectal Examination (DRE) or biopsy.

Eat for prostate health

Did you know food and some lifestyle changes can play a positive role in the health of the prostate? Want to find out more? Let our qualified and experienced Nutritionists help educate your staff on how to improve the health of their prostate, or order our informative Prostate Health DVD and Fact Sheets for your next Tool Box talks.

Call or enquire today.

Resources: Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia: Understanding Prostate Cancer. Core Health Consulting