Four questions to ask dad that could help spot prostate cancer -…

Men are being inspired to pose 4 essential questions to their fathers that could probably save lives. Prostate cancer stands as the most prevalent cancer affecting UK males, with roughly 63,000 new diagnoses yearly – impacting one in eight males. Currently, around 510,000 males live with or have survived the disease, yet tragically, over 10,000 males lose their lives to it each yr, according to Prostate Cancer UK. A cancer specialist is now advocating for household discussions, emphasizing that mild prompts can play a important function in motivating males to monitor their health and seek the advice of with a doctor when needed.

Radiation oncologist Dr Jiri Kubes explained: “We know talking about personal health issues can be difficult for many men, but it is so important. We also know men can sometimes put off seeing their doctor. Having open conversations and asking these questions can give a gentle nudge in the right direction if it’s needed.” He believes 4 particular questions can speed up diagnosis and allow sooner treatment, experiences the Express.

Is there a household historical past of prostate cancer?

Prostate cancer charges are climbing, with elevated risk for those whose father or brother skilled the disease. Macmillan Cancer Support notes that hazard also will increase when two or more close male family, like a grandfather and uncle, from the same household lineage have battled prostate cancer.

Dr Kubes, medical director of the Proton Therapy Center in Prague, Czech Republic, explained: “Knowing your risk is really important as often prostate cancer comes without any symptoms in the early stages. If you have a family history or are worried about prostate cancer then you can speak to your GP about a PSA test which can measure the level of prostate specific antigen in the blood. The test is not perfect but it can detect abnormalities which is important in early detection.”

Are you experiencing uncommon lavatory habits?

Prostate cancer often presents without warning indicators, notably during its initial phases, though it could trigger bathroom-related modifications. Dr Kubes explained: “If you’re finding you need to wee more frequently, or you’re getting up often during the night, you need to investigate the cause.

“You might also discover a hesitancy when you attempt to pee, or straining and taking a lot of time, as nicely as a weak circulation. For some it seems like their bladder hasn’t been totally emptied. These symptoms don’t imply you positively have cancer, but they need to be talked about to a GP who can talk about your risk and assess whether or not it’s best to have additional assessments.”

Are you seeing blood when you urinate?

visible injury in the urine, also known as hematuria, can serve as a warning sign for prostate, bladder or kidney cancers and should never be dismissed, according to the expert. Dr Kubes stated: “If you discover blood in your urine even once, do not wait for it to occur again. Once is enough to make an appointment with your GP. It could be nothing, but if it’s one thing then a well timed diagnosis can save your life.”

When did you last visit your GP?

Based on a recent ONS Health Insight Survey, only 33.5% of men had tried to contact their GP practice for themselves or a household member within the past 28 days. This contrasts with 45.8% of women.

Dr Kubes explained: “We know that males are often more reluctant to speak about their health. Sometimes this can lead to people burying their head in the sand and ignoring little niggles until they grow to be a major problem. It’s actually important to have open conversations around health and encourage people to get ‘that little drawback’ checked out.”