PROSTATE
CANCER CRYOTHERAPY
Overview
Prostate Cancer: The
Risk Factors?
Technological innovators of the minimally invasive cryosurgical ablation procedure and surgery, Galil Medical explains the risk factors of prostate cancer.
When it comes to whether or not an individual is likely to receive a prostate cancer diagnosis during his lifetime, one should consider the following risk factors; age, family history, ethnicity, environment, diet, and occupation. Early detection of prostate cancer is crucial as the potential for prostate cancer cures and the effectiveness of treatment options like cryotherapy ablation (cryosurgery (freezing)/cryoablation), and radiation therapy are increased when identified early, before the prostate cancer has had a chance to advance to elevated stages. It is recommended that men begin yearly diagnostic procedures at age 50 and at age 40 for individuals considered at risk.
Age. Age is considered the greatest risk for a prostate cancer diagnosis. Clinical studies prove that 65% of men who receive a prostate cancer diagnosis or recurrence are over the age of 65. After age 40, the prostate gland begins to enlarge. The increase in cells combined with an elevated age makes this area susceptible to cancer formation.
Family History. Prostate cancer statistics reveal that family history can put you at a greater predisposition for developing prostate cancer during your lifetime. If you have a first-degree relative (brother/father) with prostate cancer, the likelihood of developing the malignancy doubles. If that relative developed the disease before the age of 55, the risk of a diagnosis increases even higher. If a first-degree relative is diagnosed much later in life, say at age 80, there is a less chance of a genetic predisposition.
Race and Ethnicity. African American men are considered at the greatest risk for developing prostate cancer worldwide. Not only are they considered at higher risk, clinical studies have shown they develop the malignancy earlier in life. The reasons for this are unclear, however some researchers speculate differences in diet, genetics, testosterone levels, and reduced absorption of vitamin D via the sunlight may put these individuals at greater risk.
Asian nations have the lowest occurrence of prostate cancer. However, Asian males who immigrate to the United States have developed prostate cancer almost as frequently as the average Caucasian American male.
Other Factors. Diet, environment, and occupation may also contribute to whether or not an individual will receive a prostate cancer diagnosis during his lifetime. Diets high in fat and low in fiber put an individual at a greater risk for cancer. Healthful diets have also been proven to slow the growth of cancer. Evidence also suggests, though it is not conclusive, that certain occupations put men at greater risk for a diagnosis. These occupations include farmers, welders, and mechanics. Researchers speculate exposure to chemicals may cause the cells to mutate and become cancerous. In terms of location, prostate cancer is more deadly in areas with low levels of ultraviolet radiation, with the highest mortality rates occurring in Sweden and Canada.
Prevention and Available Treatment Options
for Prostate Cancer
There are no definite preventions for prostate cancer. However, lifestyle choices such as eating habits and dietary supplements have been linked to lower levels of prostate cancer. Awareness of risk factors and yearly screenings will enable early detection before the prostate cancer has spread and advanced to dangerous stages.
As prostate cancer is typically slow-growing, chances for possible cures are high when detected early. Cryotherapy, a minimally invasive surgery and procedure, is a treatment option available to men that utilizes freezing technology to destroy cancerous prostatic cells. Through the insertion of ultra-thin cryo needles, advanced ultrasound monitoring, and planning software, Galil Medical has made great strides in cryoablation technology, providing an alternative to traditional treatments like radiation therapy and prostatectomies. |
