50 facts Prostate cancer

Prostate cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths among Jamaican adult males.

Mutations in the BRCA2 gene increase the risk of developing prostate cancer. Men with one or more first-degree relatives (father, brother, or son) diagnosed with prostate cancer have an increased risk of prostate cancer, especially if the relative was diagnosed at an early age.

The prostate helps to prevent the retrograde flow of semen from the urethra into the bladder during ejaculation and it contributes about 20 per cent of the volume of semen. Secretions from the prostate contain important substances to fight infection, provide nourishment and a favourable environment for the sperm during their long trek in the female genital system to meet with the egg for fertilisation. It, therefore, is seen to play an important role in fertility.

The Jamaica Urological Society and Jamaica Cancer Society recommend that all men over age 40 should begin regular prostate checks, as with all cancers, early detection can help save your life. An examination of the rectum and a blood test to determine the level of prostate specific antigen (PSA) is determined is recommended.