Let’s explore the myths and facts about prostate cancer to better understand this silent disease and the importance of early diagnosis for men’s health. Learn more!
Myths and facts about prostate cancer can cause confusion and unnecessary fear, as prostate cancer is a growing concern among men of all ages. It is the second most common cancer in men!
This issue is also important for public health. Not coincidentally, the Blue November campaign was created to raise awareness about this disease. It is an opportunity to dispel misinformation and promote prostate health care.
To prevent this disease, which is surrounded by taboos and misconceptions, let’s discover the myths and facts about prostate cancer:
1. Every man will get prostate cancer one day
Myth. Although prostate cancer is common, with around 71,700 new cases per year, according to the National Cancer Institute (INCA), the disease is not inevitable. Most men will not develop the disease in their lifetime.
2. Prostate cancer only affects older men
Myth. While the incidence of the disease increases with age, younger men can also be diagnosed, especially those with risk factors.
3. All men with prostate cancer have symptoms
Myth. This can be a silent disease. Many men do not show symptoms in the early stages – making early diagnosis crucial.
4. Black men are more likely to develop prostate cancer
Fact. Studies show that black men are more likely to develop the disease and tend to present more aggressive forms. This is due to higher androgen sensitivity found in this population.
5. Only those with a family history of prostate cancer are at risk
Myth. Although a family history increases the risk, many men diagnosed have no direct relatives with the disease.
6. Prostate cancer can affect other organs
Fact. Especially when diagnosed late, prostate cancer can metastasize, or spread, to other parts of the body. Bone metastasis is considered incurable.
7. There is more than one type of prostate cancer
Fact. Prostate cancer can be classified into several types, depending on the type of affected cell and aggressiveness. Adenocarcinoma is the most common.
8. Enlarged prostate is a sign of cancer risk
Myth. Although an enlarged prostate is a symptom of prostate cancer, the gland’s enlargement alone can indicate benign prostatic hyperplasia, common in older men and not necessarily cancerous. Additional tests are required to confirm.
9. The prostate exam is painless and quick
Fact. The digital rectal exam is usually quick and painless. Some discomfort may occur if the patient is very tense.
10. The digital rectal exam affects a man’s masculinity
Myth. This is the main myth about prostate cancer and should be debunked in favor of men’s health.
The exam allows access to the prostate gland through the insertion of a finger into the patient’s anus, helping the doctor detect signs of cancer. If properly performed, it causes no discomfort, and a good relationship between doctor and patient helps overcome embarrassment.
11. The PSA test (prostate-specific antigen) is enough for diagnosis
Myth. Although the PSA test, performed by analyzing a blood sample, helps in detection, it is not definitive. If PSA and the rectal exam show abnormalities, a biopsy is still needed for differential diagnosis of benign prostatic hyperplasia.
12. High PSA levels always indicate prostate cancer
Myth. Elevated PSA levels can indicate other conditions, such as benign hyperplasia or infections. Therefore, they should not be analyzed alone, and additional tests are required.
13. The best treatment for cancer is surgery
Myth. The most appropriate treatment depends on the stage of the disease and the patient’s overall health. It’s important to remember that there are many alternatives to surgery, such as active surveillance (for less severe cases), chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and hormone therapy.
14. Prostate cancer treatment always leads to impotence
Myth. Although erectile dysfunction is a possible side effect of surgery, many men retain sexual function after treatment. Additionally, the treatment phase can reduce libido and cause distress, leading to psychological erectile dysfunction.
15. Erectile dysfunction caused by prostate surgery cannot be treated
Myth. Men who experience erectile dysfunction after radical prostatectomy can try medications and injections to achieve an erection. If these don’t work, surgery to implant a penile prosthesis may be considered as a treatment option.
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16. Prostate cancer reduces testosterone levels
Myth. Prostate cancer itself does not lower testosterone levels, but some treatments can affect them, such as hormone therapy, which inhibits the production of male hormones.
17. Sedentary lifestyle and obesity are risk factors for prostate cancer
Fact. A sedentary lifestyle and obesity are associated with an increased risk of developing the disease.
18. Maintaining a healthy diet helps prevent cancer
Fact. A balanced diet without high-calorie and ultra-processed foods can contribute to prostate health. Recommended foods include red fruits, omega-3-rich fish, dark green vegetables (broccoli, kale, etc.), nuts, and seeds.
19. Frequent sexual activity increases the risk of cancer
Myth. There is no evidence that the frequency of sexual activity influences the risk of prostate cancer.
20. Prostate cancer always progresses quickly.
Myth. Many cases are slow-growing, allowing doctors to adopt an active surveillance approach. However, it’s best if the disease is detected early.
21. Vitamin supplements prevent prostate cancer
Myth. There is no scientific evidence that vitamin supplements have a preventive effect on the disease.
22. Prostate cancer is contagious
Myth. Cancer is not a transmissible disease and cannot be passed from one person to another. It mainly develops due to poor habits, family history, and aging.
23. All prostate cancers are fatal
Myth. The survival rate is over 90% – and the faster the disease is identified and treated, the greater the chances of a cure and living with a good quality of life.
Early diagnosis is essential to increase treatment success – and the Blue November campaign aims to reinforce not only the myths and facts about prostate cancer but also the need for regular check-ups, especially after age 50 (or earlier if there is a family history).
Consider adopting habits that can help reduce risk factors: avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, engage in regular physical activity, maintain a healthy diet, and manage daily stress.
Take care of yourself, talk to your doctor, and, if necessary, count on Dr. Paulo to help you manage the impacts of prostate cancer on your sexual life. Fill out the form and learn how to start dealing with this situation.
