The prostate is a small walnut-sized reproductive gland that is located just below the bladder in men. It sits around the urethra, and is responsible for the production of most of the fluid that makes up semen. The three most common diseases that affect the prostate include Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH), Prostatitis (inflammation) and Prostate Cancer.
Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) is a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland. It’s common for the prostate to get bigger as men age, particularly above the age of 40. For some men, and enlarged prostate doesn’t cause any symptoms or bother. But when symptoms do occur, they are related to the prostate obstructing the flow of urine through the urethra and cause problems with urinating. Symptoms include frequent urination, dribbling after urination and difficulty starting urination.
Prostatitis is inflammation of the prostate which can sometimes be caused by a bacterial infection ‘bacterial prostatitis’ or by unknown causes and is termed ‘chronic pelvic pain syndrome’ or ‘chronic prostatitis’. Symptoms can be similar to that of BPH and can include, difficulty urinating, aches, fever, chills, painful urination, back pain and blood in the urine.
Prostate Cancer is the growth of abnormal cells in the prostate gland. The chance of developing prostate cancer is significantly higher in men who have a close relative with prostate cancer, in particular if that relative was diagnosed before the age of 60. In early stages, prostate cancer may not show any symptoms. Symptoms may appear the same as BPH or prostatitis and can include blood in the urine and urinary blockage.
There is no way to completely prevent the risk of developing prostate problems, however following a healthy diet high in antioxidants, zinc, and omega-3 fatty acids, keeping regularly active, and being alert to symptoms or changes may reduce the risk significantly. Additionally, some evidence exists for the benefit of including soy foods, selenium and green tea into a healthy diet to assist with prostate health. For further information regarding prostate health please visit one of the reliable webpages listed below or speak with your friendly Direct Chemist Outlet Pharmacist.
References:
https://prostateawareness.org.au/
https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/benign-prostate-hypertrophy
https://www.urologyhealth.org/
DISCLAIMER: This material contains general information about medical conditions and treatments and is intended for educational purposes only. It does not constitute medical or professional advice, nor should it be used for the purposes of diagnosing or treating any illness. If you have or suspect you may have a health problem, you should consult your local pharmacist or health provider to obtain professional advice relevant to your specific circumstances.