By 2040, the leading cause of death for men in Latvia will be more and more common

Traditionally, November is celebrated as men’s health month around the world, and Latvian Urologists Association also invites men in Latvia to take care of their health this month.

Unfortunately, studies show that the number of men diagnosed with prostate cancer is likely to double by 2040, with 2.9 million cases worldwide each year. At the same time, the annual death rate could rise to 85%.

Although the morbidity rate is higher in Western Europe, which can be explained by timely diagnosis, the mortality rates are higher precisely in Eastern European countries. This has a direct impact on men’s habit of avoiding timely visits to the doctor. Urologists remind us that the diagnosis of prostate cancer begins with a simple PSA blood test, which the state pays twice a year for men aged 50 to 75.

Prostate cancer is still the leading cause of death in Latvian men, just after cardiovascular diseases, and its incidence will not increase. According to a study by the Institute for Cancer Research, London, which was presented this year at the annual conference of the European Association of Urology, it is expected that the number of diseases diagnosed in the world will increase from 1.4 million per year to 2.9 million in 2020 in 2040.

This means that in 16 years, around 330 men around the world will get prostate cancer every hour. The reason for this is mainly an aging society and increasing life expectancy.

Prostate cancer detected in the early stages can be completely cured in most cases, reducing the likelihood of side effects. Unfortunately, however, at the very beginning of the disease, prostate cancer may not cause complaints to patients – there is no pain or discomfort, and the usual tests, such as a complete blood count, are unchanged . To find out if everything is fine with the health of the prostate, special blood tests should be done that measure the level of the prostate specific antigen (PSA).

“Once every two years, everyone between 50 and 75 has access to a PSA blood test paid for by the state, and men with a family history of prostate cancer can get it from the age of 45. It is the good news is. that prostate cancer usually develops slowly, so 30% of cases, this oncological disease should only be observed, additional treatment or surgical interventions should not make cancer, but the show changes in the prostate.

For many men, this may indicate an enlarged prostate, or benign prostatic hyperplasia or inflammation. But to be completely clear about it, an experiment should be done. By doing this simple blood test, you will ensure not only your own peace of mind, but also the peace of mind of your family,” explained Dr. med. Juris Plonis, President of the Association of Urologists of Latvia, Head of Department Urology of the Clinical University Hospital Paula Stradiņš.

Prostate cancer treatment has progressed significantly, and the urology departments of the largest hospitals in Latvia are already using world-class diagnostic and treatment equipment. Many of these technologies, including those used in activities, are not only effective, but much gentler on the male body. Therefore, postoperative discomfort is reduced, the man can return to his normal daily life faster, and the possibility of complications is reduced.

In Latvia, four hospitals – Riga Eastern Clinical University Hospital, Paula Stradiņš Clinical University Hospital, Daugavpils Regional Hospital and Liepāja Regional Hospital – have created so-called “green corridors”, where the family doctor will refer in case of suspicion that there is an oncological disease. .

Unfortunately, if you go to the doctor late and the disease is detected in the final stages, it is not always possible to prevent side effects completely. Therefore, at this time, the Oncology Patient Support Association “Tree of Life”, in cooperation with the Latvian Association of Urologists, has submitted the campaign “One must live even after impotence caused by prostate cancer” on the participation platform manabalss.lv.

Its aim is to ensure that the reconstruction of the penis after prostate cancer surgery is included in the list of operations paid by the state, similar to the state currently pays for breast reconstruction for women after breast cancer. This initiative is essential to help men maintain their quality of life and regain their psycho-emotional balance, thus allowing them to fully integrate into society even after severe treatment. This is particularly important as cancer affects more and more young people today. You can sign the campaign here: https://manabalss.lv/valsts-apmaksata-dzimumlocekla-rekonstrukcija-pec-prostatas-veza-operacijas/show

Urologists remind us that self-care is not weakness. Everyone is responsible for his loved ones and himself. Don’t skip annual checkups and don’t be shy about seeking help. Prevention and timely diagnosis of diseases can be everyone’s best ally on the way to a happy future.