In the framework of World Prostate Cancer Day -which is commemorated every year on June 11- it is essential to raise awareness and educate about the early detection of this condition, which greatly affects Chilean men and is the leading cause of male death in this type of oncological disease.
According to data compiled by the Global Cancer Observatory (Globocan), in 2020 there were 8,157 new cases in Chile, which represents 28% of new diagnoses in the male population, and of all ages1.
The prostate is defined by the Spanish Society of Medical Oncology2 as a gland within the male reproductive system that is located in the pelvis, behind the bladder and in front of the rectum. It is about the size of a walnut or chestnut and increases in size with age.
This type of cancer occurs more frequently after the age of 50 and, in 2020, 2,296 deaths from the disease were registered in the country1. Although specialists recommend starting preventive examinations after the age of 40.
Dr. Ignacio San Francisco, uro-oncologist and former president of the Uro-Oncology branch of the Chilean Society of Urology explains that “it is of great importance that the male population understands that a blood test allows to rule out or diagnose this pathology , which when done early, improves the prognosis of patients”.
This pathology is usually a slow-growing disease that generally does not cause symptoms until it is in an advanced stage. At this time, signs of the disease may include difficulty initiating urination (urination), weak or interrupted urine flow, and the need to urinate frequently, especially at night. While in a more aggravated stage of the pathology, swelling in the legs, bone pain and/or weakness or loss of strength in the lower limbs may occur3.
Dr. Miguel Ángel Cuevas, director of the Department of Urology of the Faculty of Medicine of the University of Chile, emphasizes that “it is important to demystify the prostate exam and educate the population about this condition, which has some risk factors such as the age and family history that make the annual check-ups come before the age of 40”.
The medical director of AstraZeneca’s southern cone, Agustina Elizalde, adds that “in this pathology, as in all, medical consultation is essential. It is important to talk to the doctor about the need or not to do early detection studies depending on the case”.
According to the National Institute of Statistics (INE), in 2021, cancer became the leading cause of death in Chile, ahead of diseases of the circulatory system. The importance of prevention through diagnostic tests are relevant points to spread and that should not be postponed. In this sense, the “Let’s Talk About Cancer” platform helps with relevant information for people.
