March 9th, 2016
Are you aware that prostate cancer is the second most commonly occurring malignancy in males (second only to the skin cancer). According to latest statistics reported by the American Cancer Society, more than 220,800 new cases of prostate cancer were reported in the year 2015. Besides high morbidity, the mortality rate due to prostate cancer is also fairly high. In 2015, malignancy of prostate gland claimed 27,540 lives (1) second only to liver cancer.
Experts suggest that the lifetime risk of developing prostate malignancy is 1 in 7 (1).
Prostate cancer is more common in older men as more than 60% cases are reported in men over the age of 65 years. In fact, the risk of developing prostate cancer in men under age 40 is negligible. Fortunately, due to excellent diagnostic and treatment facilities, the cancer survival rate is fairly high and according to latest estimates, there are more than 2.9 million prostate cancer survivors in the United States. However, it is logical to assume that the quality of life suffers a great deal in patients unless sound measures are adopted.
If you are battling prostate cancer, you should know that you are not alone. It is very important to take extra care of your health and wellness. Following some simple tips can help in restoring the optimal quality of life:
Men with prostate cancer are usually old and often have preexisting erectile dysfunction and urinary symptoms. Unfortunately, the severity of symptoms aggravates in most cases after primary treatment (surgical intervention as well as radio/chemotherapy). All such patients can greatly benefit from pelvic floor strengthening exercises. According to a new study reported in the European Urology journal (4), investigators suggested that 19% patients who adopted early pelvic floor rehabilitation and training reported a marked improvement in the urinary continence over a period of just 4 weeks and more than 94.6% patients complete resolution of symptoms with just 6 months of pelvic training.
Prostate cancer and its treatment can significantly alter the quality of your life. Many men develop erectile dysfunction, low libido, depression, ejaculation disturbances and other sexual disorders. Needless to say that these symptoms can also compromise your sex life. Therefore, it is very important to allow open communication with your partner. Most men are uncomfortable in talking about their problems but lack of communication may damage your relationship as well as treatment process. Here are a few tips that can make your sex life during cancer journey less challenging:
1. http://www.cancer.org/cancer/prostatecancer/detailedguide/prostate-cancer-key-statistics
2. Resnick, M. J., Koyama, T., Fan, K. H., Albertsen, P. C., Goodman, M., Hamilton, A. S., … & Van Horn, R. L. (2013). Long-term functional outcomes after treatment for localized prostate cancer. New England Journal of Medicine, 368(5), 436-445.
3. http://www.cancer.org/cancer/news/features/survivors-living-with-prostate-cancer
4. Filocamo, M. T., Marzi, V. L., Del Popolo, G., Cecconi, F., Marzocco, M., Tosto, A., & Nicita, G. (2005). Effectiveness of early pelvic floor rehabilitation treatment for post-prostatectomy incontinence. European urology, 48(5), 734-738.