Prostate Cancer: When Lack of Prevention Becomes a Late Sentence

1. Introduction Prostate cancer is the second most common cancer among men in Brazil, responsible for approximately 65,000 new cases annually. With a mortality rate of about 15% of diagnosed cases, prostate cancer represents a public health challenge, especially in the South and Southeast regions, where its incidence is higher.

2. Main Causes and Risk Factors of Prostate Cancer Statistical Data:

• The prevalence is higher among men over 50, with the average age of diagnosis around 66 years.
• Men with a family history are 2 to 3 times more likely to develop the disease.
• A sedentary lifestyle and diets high in fat increase the risk by up to 20%.

3. Symptoms of Prostate Cancer Symptoms: They vary according to the cancer stage. In early stages, symptoms are mild or nonexistent, but can progress to urinary difficulties and pelvic pain. In advanced stages, bone pain and blood in the urine are common.

4. Radiological Exams for Diagnosis and Control of Prostate Cancer Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI):

• Effectiveness Data: Multiparametric MRI has a diagnostic accuracy of about 85-90% compared to traditional methods.
• Biparametric vs. Multiparametric Comparison: Biparametric MRI, without contrast, is faster and reduces the cost of the exam by about 25%.

5. Advances in Early Diagnosis AI and Risk Prediction: Studies suggest that AI analysis of MRI images can anticipate diagnosis by up to 2 years for high-risk patients. The accuracy of AI in detecting suspicious areas is about 92%.

6. Treatments for Prostate Cancer Treatment Data:

• The success rate of radical prostatectomy for localized tumors is about 90%.
• Advanced treatments, such as immunotherapy, have a response rate of about 25% in resistant cases.

7. Post-Surgical Exercises and Rehabilitation After prostate removal surgery, men commonly experience pelvic floor weakness and, in some cases, erectile dysfunction. Specific exercises can aid recovery.

• Recommended Exercises:Kegel Exercises: Strengthen the pelvic floor, improving urinary control and sexual function. Should be done regularly, with professional guidance.Walking and Light Exercise: Promote circulation and reduce the risk of clot formation after surgery.Flexibility and Moderate Strengthening Exercises: Such as stretching and light activities with resistance bands, helping regain mobility.
• Exercises to Avoid:High-Impact Exercises: Activities like weightlifting, running, and cycling can overload the pelvic region and should be avoided in the first few months.Intense Abdominal Exercises: May put pressure on the pelvic floor and interfere with recovery.

8. Post-Treatment Erectile Dysfunction Erectile Dysfunction Data:

• About 30-50% of men undergoing surgery or radiation therapy for prostate cancer experience some level of erectile dysfunction.
• Recovery of erectile function can take up to 2 years, depending on age and treatment type. Treatment for Erectile Dysfunction:
• Oral Medications (such as PDE5 inhibitors): Help improve blood flow, with a success rate of about 70%.
• Vacuum Erection Devices: Provide a mechanical erection option, especially useful for those who do not respond well to medications.
• Injections and Penile Implants: Used in cases where less invasive options have failed.

9. Prevention and Control Lifestyle and Diet in Brazil:

• It is estimated that 80% of the male population consumes diets high in sodium and fat, increasing the risk of prostate cancer.
• Recent data shows that only 30% of men engage in regular physical activity, raising the risk for chronic diseases.

10. Prostate Cancer Statistics in Brazil By Region:

• The highest incidence of prostate cancer is recorded in the South and Southeast, with states like Rio Grande do Sul and São Paulo leading.
• Mortality varies: northern states have higher mortality rates due to late diagnosis.

11. Palliative and Complementary Treatments Palliative Care:

• In advanced stages, palliative therapy focuses on quality of life, pain management, and psychological support. Complementary Therapies:
• Phytotherapy and acupuncture are popular for alleviating side effects of conventional treatments.

12. Future Perspectives Advances in Gene Therapy and Precision Medicine: These treatments promise greater efficacy and fewer side effects, focusing on each patient's genetic profile. AI and Prevention: AI is also being used to predict which high-risk patients may develop prostate cancer and at which stage, allowing for more active monitoring.

Conclusion Prostate cancer in Brazil is a critical issue that requires a multifaceted approach. Integrating preventive exams, such as PSA and MRI, with new technologies like AI and genetic analysis, could transform the current landscape, facilitating early diagnoses and personalized treatments. Adopting a healthy lifestyle with a balanced diet and regular physical activity can significantly reduce the risk.

The South and Southeast regions need to expand access to diagnosis, while states with lower incidence should intensify prevention campaigns and education on the importance of regular exams. In the future, precision medicine and advanced therapies are expected to bring significant improvements, enhancing cure rates and the quality of life for patients.