LA TRINIDAD, Benguet (PIA) — The Department of Health (DOH) continues to strengthen its campaign against prostate cancer by promoting awareness and encouraging early detection especially among men over 55 years old.
Prostate cancer develops in the prostate gland, which lies below the bladder, surrounds the urethra, and produces fluid that mixes with semen. It is one of the most common cancers among men particularly older adults.
According to the DOH, prostate cancer is the third most common cancer type among men in the Philippines, next to lung and colorectum cancers. Risk for this chronic disease increases with age, so early detection is the key to preventing it.
As part of its campaign, the DOH, in collaboration with the Benguet General Hospital (BeGH) included prostate cancer screening in the mass cancer screening activity on October 22 at the BeGH. Services included digital rectal examinations at the BeGH Surgery Outpatient Department.
“Very simple lang ‘yung test for prostate cancer screening, digital rectal exam,” said Dr. Francis Yabut, a urologist at BeGH.
He highlighted the importance of screening as men age.
“Basta ang lalaki, ‘pag umabot ng 55 and above, nandun na ‘yung risk ng prostate cancer,” Yabut said.
Health experts said the symptoms of prostate cancer include burning or pain during urination; difficulty urinating or starting and stopping while urinating; frequent urination at night; decreased flow of urine; blood in urine; and blood in semen. Men who experience these are advised to seek medical consultation.
Men with a family history of prostate cancer may also need to discuss screening at an earlier age with their healthcare providers. Screening decisions should consider individual risk factors and medical advice. **JDP/DEG-PIA-CAR w/ GIP Jevie Caycayen
