Frequently Asked Questions

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• Question: What is a Prostate Gland?
• Answer:
  The Prostate is a walnut-size gland in the male reproductive system. It is located below the bladder and surrounds the upper part of the urethra; the tube that passes urine from the bladder to the penis. The Prostate helps regulate bladder control, produces the seminal fluid that nourishes & transports sperm and plays a significant part in ejaculation.
• Question: What conditions affect the prostate gland?
• Answer:
       • Prostate enlargement
       • Inflammation of the prostate gland (prostatitis)
       • Prostate Cancer
  
  Prostate Enlargement: is a common condition and generally associated with ageing. Around a 3rd of all men suffer from prostate enlargement. If the prostate becomes enlarged, it puts pressure on the urethra, often making it difficult to empty the bladder. There are several medications used to alleviate the problems associated with enlargement, but in severe cases, the cause of the problem can be surgically removed. NOTE! Prostate Enlargement is very treatable but left untreated can cause more severe conditions, particularly in the kidneys. - Please contact your doctor if you notice any change in your ability to pass water.
  
  Prostatitis: is inflammation (swelling) of the prostate gland and can be quite painful. It can be cured with treatment but if there is an underlying cause may return. Like prostate enlargement, left untreated this condition can lead to serious illness.
  
  Prostate Cancer: is the most common cancer in men and the third most like to cause death after lung & bowel cancer. Over 40,000 new cases are diagnosed in the UK every year. Prostate Cancer progresses very slowly, and awareness & early investigation can provide a positive outlook for those diagnosed. If treated early, prostate cancer can often be cured. Current treatments include:-
       • surgery to remove the prostate gland
       • radiotherapy - using radiation to kill the cancerous cells
       • medication and hormone therapy
  
  
• Question: What is Prostate Cancer?
• Answer: Prostate cancer has replaced lung cancer as the most common form of cancer in the UK. It occurs when cells in the Prostate Gland grow out of control and form a tumour - More Info.
  It usually develops slowly, so there may be no signs for many years, but a simple PSA test may identify the problem before it becomes life-threatening.
• Question: What is a PSA Test?
• Answer:
  It is a blood test that measures a protein called Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA). PSA is a protein produced by cells in the prostate and also by prostate cancer cells. It is usual for all men to have a small amount of PSA in their blood. Although a 'blunt tool', if a test reveals a raised PSA level, it does not necessarily mean you have prostate cancer. However, it does warrant further investigation by your GP.