This week is all about Prostate Cancer and men’s health. September is National Prostate Health Month, in addition to Pediatric Cancer Month, too. Over the last decade, prostate cancer instances have dropped 6% each year and the mortality rate has dropped 3% during the same time period. These numbers are, in large part, due to a nationwide push for awareness and prevention testing.
Harvard’s annual report on Prostate Diseases provide much insight on the current state of research and health approaches. They write, “Most men eventually develop some type of prostate problem, and when they do there are usually no easy solutions. The three most common prostate problems are benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), prostatitis, and prostate cancer. Men with the same condition and symptoms might opt for very different treatments — or choose to do nothing at all.”
Harvard suggests that men approach prostate cancer with ‘active surveillance,’ a strategy that means men should talk with their doctors to determine the best course of action for their situation.
This helpful infographic shows more. Night sweats and prostate issues are often linked, depending on the severity of the prostate problem. Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) can cause discomfort, as well as issues urinating, and sometimes fever, chills, and night sweats.
Similarly, prostatitis can cause the same symptoms, as can treatments for prostate cancers. Nearly 30,000 men annually die from prostate cancer. Though this number shrinks annually, it’s vital to ensure research continues and men make informed decisions about their health. Talk to your doctor with any health concerns.
As always, sleep well, sleep wicked.
