madman
Super Moderator
Beyond the Prostate: Don’t Forget About the Rest of Your Body!
Treatment of prostate cancer at any stage can be all-consuming. But don’t forget about the rest of your body! This means you still need to think about screening for other cancers, such as colon cancer and skin cancer. You still need regular checks for blood cholesterol, liver function, kidney...
www.pcf.org
Treatment of prostate cancer is vital, but it's crucial to consider overall health. Don't forget other screenings for colon and skin cancer, regular lab work, heart health, and blood pressure checks. Even if you only see a urologist, ensure they know your health concerns.
Prioritize heart health
*Cardiovascular wellness is crucial for men's health.
*Successfully treated localized prostate cancer's biggest risk is a heart attack.
*Heart disease is the leading cause of death in men, even without prostate cancer.
*Androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) for advanced prostate cancer increases heart attack risk.
*Focus on heart-healthy habits, such as a whole-food diet, low-processed foods, and moderate alcohol intake.
*Exercise regularly and follow a balanced diet with fruits, vegetables, and plant-based proteins for better heart health.
Testosterone: Impact on Health
*Men with advanced prostate cancer require ADT to control cancer and suppress male hormones.
*Men without prostate cancer or successfully treated localized cancer need testosterone for overall health.
*Low testosterone levels can have negative effects on cognition, physical limitations, and sexual health.
*Restoring testosterone to the normal range through supplementation can improve cognitive function and physical well-being.
*Maintaining testosterone levels between 300 and 800 ng/dL is crucial for optimal health and reduces the risk of heart attacks, stroke, and metabolic diseases.
*If experiencing fatigue or low sex drive, consult a urologist or primary care physician
Sexual health reflects overall well-being
*Surgery and radiation therapy for localized prostate cancer can cause erectile dysfunction (ED).
*Other medical conditions like heart disease, diabetes, metabolic syndrome, autoimmune diseases, and systemic inflammation can also lead to ED.
*Being overweight and having elevated estrogen levels can affect erectile function.
*Treating ED can involve medications like Viagra and Cialis, penile injections, or penile prosthesis implantation.
*Adopting a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, exercise, and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol, can maximize blood flow to the penis and preserve erectile function.
*If standard treatments don't work, there are alternative interventions like pumps, penile injections, or surgical options like penile prosthesis implantation.
