A leading expert in prostate cancer treatment has highlighted crucial insights every man should know about the disease. Professor Prabhakar Rajan, a urologist and robotic surgeon affiliated with University College London Hospitals (UCLH) and Barts Health, revealed that annually, over 56,000 men in Britain are diagnosed with prostate cancer, impacting at least one out of every eight men during their lifetime.

In an article for The Telegraph, Professor Rajan discussed various aspects of prostate cancer, referring to it as “controversial,” particularly in light of the recent decision by the National Screening Committee not to introduce a nationwide screening program for the condition.

“Men over the age of 50 can request a test, regardless of symptoms,” he explained. This is crucial since prostate cancer often remains undetected until it spreads beyond the prostate, making treatment more challenging. He emphasized the importance of better GP documentation of risk factors, such as the BRCA genes, which are also associated with breast and ovarian cancers.

Professor Rajan identified warning signs of advanced prostate cancer, including pain in the back, pelvis, or hips, unexpected weight loss, blood in urine or semen, and difficulties with erections.

“Ensure adequate vitamin D intake from sunlight, food, or supplements,” he advised. He also pointed out that certain foods like green tea, soy products, turmeric, and pomegranate might offer direct protective benefits for the prostate.

Furthermore, he noted that surgery is not always the optimal treatment choice, stressing the need for personalized treatment plans based on the patient’s health and the cancer’s aggressiveness. Alternatives to surgery include active surveillance, which involves carefully monitoring slow-growing cancer, as well as focal therapy and radiotherapy.

Another message of reassurance is not being too anxious if you have a diagnosis, as “the latest advances in robotic surgery mean that the risk of permanent damage is far less than it used to be”.

He said: “As soon as patients hear the word cancer, it can be shocking and many fear the worst. But prostate cancer can be treated successfully, especially if it is caught early. And as doctors, we are more sympathetic to post-treatment outcomes.”

To check for prostate cancer symptoms, visit the NHS website.