MOVEMBER: YOUR PROSTATE’S HEALTH

This Movember don’t only grow your moustache in support of men’s health (that’s the easy part) but also make sure you get your prostate checked out – especially if you’re over 40.

That’s because men over the age of 40 have a real risk of suffering from prostate enlargement, and possibly cancer.

Often a taboo subject, the prostate gland should be spoken about openly and men should be made aware of how important it is to have a regular check up by a medical practitioner.

The prostate gland is a gland the size of a walnut which is situated below the bladder and at the neck of the urethra – the tube that carries urine from the bladder. Its function is to transport urine and secrete a slightly alkaline fluid which, together with seminal fluid, transmit sperm.

As many gay guys will be aware, the prostate is also known as the ‘male g-spot’ and generates pleasurable feelings for many men when stimulated. Yet another reason to keep it in tip-top shape!

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a common condition in which the prostate enlarges as men age. About 25% of men will have some degree of hyperplasia by the time they turn 50. By 80, this condition will affect 90% of all men.

The good news is that only a minority of cases (about 10%) of BPH will be severe enough to require surgical or medical therapy and so taking care of the prostate before this condition occurs can often help prevent problems arising.

The prostate can also develop cancer, which is the most prevalent cancer among white South African males. However, recent statistics indicate that black men are at increased risk of prostate cancer and often develop an aggressive type of prostate cancer.

So make sure you speak to your doctor to discuss your options, including testing. This could include a physical examination (Digital Rectal Exam) and/or a blood test (PSA: Prostate Specific Antigen).

Remember, Movember is not just about other men’s health, but also your own. And neglecting the health of your prostate could be a very real health risk.