This month is dedicated to both prostate cancer
awareness and ovarian
cancer awareness. Each year, about 45,000 people are killed from these
cancers with about 230,000 diagnoses annually. At Sweeney & Sweeney, we
believe that knowledge is power, so the more you know, the better protected you
can be.
Ovarian Cancer:
Ovarian cancer often goes undetected until it has already metastasized (spread)
to the pelvis and abdomen and has a ~70% mortality rate.
- Symptoms
can include abdominal pressure, fullness, swelling, or bloating; pelvic pain or
discomfort; persistent indigestion, gas, or nausea; changes in bowel habits,
such as constipation; changes in bladder habits, including a frequent need to
pee; loss of appetite or quickly feeling full; persistent lack of energy, and
low back pain. You should always see a doctor if you have any signs or symptoms
that concern you. - There are
certain things that can increase your risk of developing ovarian cancer
including genetics (i.e. having the BRCA gene or inheriting nonpolyposis
colorectal cancer); having a family history of ovarian cancer; having a
previous cancer diagnosis; aging; and never having been pregnant. - However,
there are some ways to reduce your risk of developing ovarian cancer including
taking birth control pills. If you have a genetic predisposition to ovarian
cancer, you can talk to your doctor about other prevention methods specific to
you.
Prostate Cancer:
Prostate cancer is one of the most common types of cancer in men, usually grows
slowly, and stays confined in the prostate gland; and has a ~13% mortality
rate.
- There are
often no symptoms in the early stages of prostate cancer (which is why it’s
important to get checked), however, at more advanced stages, symptoms can
include trouble peeing; decreased force of the stream; blood in the urine;
blood in the semen; general pain in the lower back, hips, or thighs; discomfort
in the pelvic area; bone pain; or erectile dysfunction. You should always see a
doctor if you have any signs or symptoms that concern you. - Certain
things can increase your risk of developing prostate cancer including aging,
African heritage, family history of prostate or breast cancer, and obesity. - However,
there are some preventative measures you can take including maintaining a
healthy diet, exercising most days of the week, maintaining a healthy weight.
Also remember, when Health Care Reform takes effect, no one
can be denied health coverage because of a pre-existing condition, so call up Sweeney
& Sweeney to discuss your options, learn more, and sign up!