Various complications can arise as a result of prostate cancer. The complications include:

Spread of the cancer – It can spread to nearby organs, such as your bladder, or travel through your bloodstream or lymphatic system to your bones or other organs.

Prostate cancer that spreads to the bones can cause pain and broken bones. Once prostate cancer has spread to other areas of the body, it may still respond to treatment and may be controlled, but it’s unlikely to be cured

Incontinence – Both the cancer and its treatment can cause urinary incontinence.

Treatment for incontinence depends on the type you have, how severe it is and the likelihood it will improve over time. Treatment options may include medications, catheters, and surgery.

Erectile dysfunction – Erectile dysfunction can result from prostate cancer or its treatment, including surgery, radiation or hormone treatments.

Medications, surgery, and devices are the main options in achieving an erection to counter the dysfunction.

Prevention

You can reduce your risk of prostate cancer if you:

1. Choose a healthy diet full of fruits and vegetables and grains. Fruits and vegetables contain vitamins and nutrients that can contribute to your health.

2. Whether you can prevent it through diet has yet to be conclusively proved. But a healthy diet can improve your overall health.

3. Choose healthy foods over supplements. No studies have shown that supplements play a role in reducing your risk of prostate cancer.

Instead, choose foods that are rich in vitamins and minerals so that you can maintain healthy levels of vitamins in your body.

4.  Exercise most days of the week. Exercise improves your overall health, helps you maintain your weight and improves your mood.

There is some evidence that men who don’t exercise have higher PSA levels, while men who exercise may have a lower risk of prostate cancer.

5. Talk to your doctor about the increased risk of prostate cancer.

Source: Jemimah Mbugua- Head of Care & Medical Advisory, Resolution Insurance