A directory of prostate cancer. Links to information about prostate cancer treatment, prevention, genetics, causes, screening, clinical trials and more.

Posts Tagged ‘Prostate’

Understanding Alternative Prostate Cancer Treatment

Wednesday, June 24th, 2009

Nowadays, many men who are suffering from prostate are opting for alternative prostate cancer treatment, which is known as Complementary and Alternative Medicines (CAM) Treatments. This alternative prostate cancer treatment includes the holistic alternative medicines, herbal concentrates, naturopathy, yoga, meditations, many varieties of exercises and massages. The treatment will be supplementing the regular treatment under a prostate expert or will be taken alone.

Reasons may range from the cost standpoint of the use of alternative prostate cancer treatment, and on the hope of the wonders of such. While conventional medications are usually of conservative claims, the alternative prostate cancer treatment options are hyped-up with claims, which may be true or not, but surely to have major effects on one’s psyche. An alternative prostate cancer treatment as the use of dietary supplements or herbs as saw palmetto, and garlic have been used by many. The claims, especially of saw palmetto, are very popular especially in Europe. In the US, saw palmetto has started to gain a strong following and believer of its efficacy.

As an alternative prostate cancer treatment, some also take in supplementation of Vitamin D, Selenium, Vitamin E, Vitamin C and other antioxidants. The belief is to have a strong immune system to delay the progress of the cancer, if not to cure the disease. Others may also make use of yoga and tai chi for relaxing of the mind, and to keep one from being stressed. One will be able to learn how to relax, and control emotions – especially negative ones – that are believed to cause hormonal effects that may be not good for one’s system.

Individuals though should ask for their doctor’s advice, before going into any alternative prostate cancer treatment. Or if one may already be in any of the alternative prostate cancer treatment options, it is best to be honest with your doctor about it. One should not hide such alternative treatment you have self-prescribed. The risks and side effects of these alternative treatments, especially with its reaction to other medications you may be taking, can pose health issues on your end. You might just be complicating your situation and creating more health problems than you would want to get into.

An alternative can be more promising and may be more convenient, but undertake this under the proper guidance and advice of your doctor. These prostrate experts will be more experienced to analyze your case and determine whether you require alternative treatment or not. Do not risk your health by undertaking it according to your will and wishes, get good support from your doctor for a better results.

What Are The Causes Of Prostate Cancer?

Wednesday, June 24th, 2009

What is the prostate? Where is it located? What does it do? What causes prostate cancer? There are many questions that may be associated with the prostate. Rates for prostate cancer vary greatly, country-by-country. It was previously thought that this was due to lifestyle and diet variations between cultures – rates are lowest in Asia, more common in Europe and highest in North America. What exactly causes cells to turn cancerous is unknown. Even with smoking, why do some people get lung cancer while others do not? However, we can certainly point to factors that increase one’s risks. Risk factors are related to age, lifestyle, whether there is a family history of cancer, diet, race and even some medications. The greatest of these is age. Seventy years old is the average age at which it is diagnosed. Prostate cancer diagnoses prior to the age of 50 are rare and diagnoses under 45 are almost unheard of.

The prostate in found in front of the rectum, behind the pubic bone. It is below the bladder and surrounded by pelvic muscles. The prostate has an important role in seminal activity. Unfortunately, there are many diseases that are associated with the prostate. Prostate cancer is a common one that affects many men but you may also suffer from enlarged prostate, prostitis and other complications. Some symptoms or signs of problems may include difficult urination, increased urination at night, urgent urination, starting and stopping of a stream or feeling like you must “push” it out, urinary infection and others. If you feel you may be having prostate problems, you need to see your doctor for an examination. You will be asked questions about yourself and your family history and there will be a physical exam and urine tests. A bladder ultrasound and a prostate ultrasound can also help diagnose.

When you have been diagnosed with a prostate condition, your doctor will discuss possible treatments with you. Medicine may be needed to shrink the prostate. There are different factors that can affect your chances of prostate cancer. You should talk to your doctor if you are concerned with this. If someone in your family has had prostate cancer, you will want to have regular checkups and remain prostate healthy. You should not feel nervous or embarrassed to have check ups, they are very important to your future health. What causes prostate cancer? You may never know for sure, but environmental factors may be putting you at risk. Talk to your doctor if you are concerned about your risk factors.