Compared to other types of cancer, prostate cancer progresses very slowly. Every year, around men in Switzerland develop prostate cancer, making it the most common type of cancer among men. Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men aged over 50 years. It generally progresses slowly and it takes several years before the metastases develop. The age at which the individual is diagnosed is therefore crucial.
Cancer is the uncontrolled development of cells that spread to the surrounding tissue. These cells can also migrate to other organs. This is known as metastasis. Prostate cancer generally begins in the outer part of the gland. The individual may therefore notice rectal anomalies. If left untreated, prostate cancer can lead to leg swelling due to obstruction of the flow of lymphatic fluid, bone pain, kidney congestion, and ultimately it can be fatal. There are no definitive symptoms that indicate prostate disease.
In general, the signs and associated symptoms of the disease only become noticeable when the cancer has already reached a very advanced stage. There is a variety of potential symptoms:. For this reason, it is recommended that men aged 45 and over have regular urological check-ups. As yet, there is no clear understanding of what causes prostate cancer to develop. However, there are various factors known to increase the risk of the disease, such as family predisposition, age or environmental influences such as diet, lifestyle and working conditions.
If a close relative suffers from prostate cancer, the risk of developing the disease yourself is very high. The risk doubles if your father is affected. Age also plays a role. Prostate cancer is much more likely to occur in men over the age of There are also factors such as smoking or excessive alcohol consumption that increase the general risk of cancer and can therefore increase the chance of developing prostate cancer.
As part of the screening procedure, the external genital organs are checked by means of a tactile examination. The prostate is then scanned through the rectum in a procedure known as a DRE or digital rectal exam, which is a quick, easy and pain-free examination method.
