ESTADIOS CANCER DE PROSTATA

Summary

This program, presented at the 2023 Puerto Rico Urological Association convention, focuses on prostate cancer, its causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment. Dr. Freddy Méndez, a urologist, explains the factors leading to prostate cancer, such as age, genetics, and lifestyle. He highlights the importance of early detection, recommending screenings starting at age 40 for Puerto Ricans, especially those with a family history. The TNM staging system is discussed, with emphasis on the impact of metastasis. The conversation stresses the significance of regular checkups and breaking cultural myths about men’s health to reduce prostate cancer mortality.

Takeaways

• 😀 Prostate cancer is the leading cause of death in men in Puerto Rico, affecting 1 in 8 men.
• 😀 Age is a major factor in developing prostate cancer, with older individuals being more likely to develop it.
• 😀 Genetic predispositions, family history, and race also contribute to a higher risk of prostate cancer.
• 😀 A healthy diet rich in antioxidants, Omega 3, and low in animal fats may lower the risk of prostate cancer.
• 😀 Prostate cancer can be diagnosed through the PSA (prostate-specific antigen) blood test, which is an important screening tool.
• 😀 Prostate cancer is staged using the TNM system, which classifies the cancer based on its location, lymph node involvement, and metastasis.
• 😀 Stages 1, 2, and 3 indicate the degree of tumor spread, with higher stages indicating more extensive spread of cancer.
• 😀 Metastasis in prostate cancer typically spreads first to pelvic lymph nodes and bones, especially the pelvic bone and lower lumbar.
• 😀 When prostate cancer metastasizes beyond the prostate, a cure is unlikely, and treatment focuses on palliative care to manage symptoms and improve quality of life.
• 😀 Early detection of prostate cancer, especially through regular checkups, increases the chance of recovery and successful treatment.
• 😀 Men in Puerto Rico should begin prostate cancer screenings at age 40, especially if there is a family history or genetic predisposition, as compared to the U.S. recommendation of starting at 50.

Q & A

What are the main causes of prostate cancer?

Prostate cancer can be caused by age, genetic predispositions, race, family history, and environmental factors such as diet. A diet rich in antioxidants, Omega-3 fatty acids, and low in animal fats may lower the risk.

What is the TNM system used for in prostate cancer diagnosis?

The TNM system is used to determine how spread out the cancer is. 'T' represents the size or extent of the tumor, 'N' refers to lymph node involvement, and 'M' indicates whether the cancer has metastasized to distant organs.

How does the prostate cancer staging process work?

Staging involves determining how much cancer is present in the body. It helps determine the severity of the cancer and the best treatment options. It includes the histological grade (aggressiveness of the tumor) and the extent of spread (localized or disseminated).

What is the significance of PSA testing in prostate cancer detection?

Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) testing is used to detect prostate cancer, particularly in its early stages. Elevated PSA levels can indicate the presence of prostate cancer, often leading to further diagnostic procedures.

At what age should men start screening for prostate cancer?

In Puerto Rico, it is recommended that men start screening for prostate cancer at 40 years old, particularly if they have a family history. In the U.S., screening typically begins at 50, but individual risk factors should be considered.

What are the stages of prostate cancer and how do they differ?

Prostate cancer stages range from Stage 1 (localized) to Stage 4 (advanced or metastatic). Stage 1 cancer is confined to the prostate, while Stage 4 cancer has spread to distant organs like bones, lymph nodes, liver, or lungs.

How can prostate cancer metastasize, and where does it usually spread?

Prostate cancer typically spreads to pelvic lymph nodes and bones, especially the pelvic bone and lumbar spine. In more advanced cases, it can also spread to the liver, lungs, or even the brain.

What is the difference in treatment between early-stage and late-stage prostate cancer?

Early-stage prostate cancer may be treated with curative therapies, offering a high chance of recovery. Late-stage cancer, particularly if metastatic, is often managed with palliative treatments aimed at alleviating pain and extending life, though a cure is unlikely.

How does diet influence the risk of developing prostate cancer?

A diet high in antioxidants and Omega-3 fatty acids, and low in animal fats, may reduce the risk of developing prostate cancer. However, a poor diet with excess processed foods may increase the risk.

What role do genetic factors play in prostate cancer risk?

Genetic factors, including family history and genetic mutations, can increase the likelihood of developing prostate cancer. Men with a family history of the disease, especially those with mutations in certain genes, may be at higher risk.