In September, PROCURE demystifies the prostate!
PROSTATE CANCER
September is Prostate Cancer Awareness Month. This month gives us the opportunity to think, listen, act and support these men and families who are victims of prostate cancer. Did you know that in Quebec, 12 men a day are diagnosed with prostate cancer and that close to 900 families lose a loved one to this disease every year? However, it is completely curable if it is discovered early enough, if it remains confined to the prostate and if it is treated in a timely manner.That’s why we encourage all men to talk to their doctors about the risk factors for prostate cancer, because there’s nothing to be embarrassed about!
Discover our testimonials
PROCURE demystifies treatment choices (+)
There are a number of treatments for prostate cancer. Depending on your stage and grade, your age, health, medical and family history, you may have several options. The decision is never easy. While Alain took the option of active surveillance, Winston preferred a complete removal of the prostate. Find out how 4 of our patients made their treatment choice.
PROCURE demystifies screening and diagnosis (+)
Many people have advance notice of prostate cancer screening and diagnosis, they believe that only a digital rectal exam can detect it. Yet other solutions, which will reassure the most reluctant, exist. Our patients say it better than we do, talk openly to your doctor about the risk factors for prostate cancer, because there’s nothing to be embarrassed about!
PROCURE demystifies the need for support (+)
Learning that you have cancer is never easy. It’s like the world is falling apart on your head. When you hear the word “cancer”, everything is turned upside down and a multitude of emotions, worries and concerns overwhelm you. It is a hard blow that you MUST NOT live alone! It is important and necessary to find support, to express your emotions and to talk openly about what is bothering you. While Jean preferred not to tell his family, he was able to find comfort through our 7/7 support line that connects him to nurses specialized in uro-oncology. Alain, on the other hand, found support with his children. But they are all out of the woods, and we have to talk about it!
PROCURE demystifies urinary and sexual disorders (+)
Our patients are unanimous that open and honest communication is essential to deal with these changes. Whether it’s that famous erectile problem that men don’t talk about or urinary incontinence, these side effects don’t make you less than a man. Although your virility seems to be affected, what matters is your health and our patients have understood this. Here is the testimony of Winston, Claude, Alain and Jean, who will help you forget the prejudices you have!
All our episodes
Couldn’t make it to the webinar? Missed a crucial moment? Or do you just want to see it again? Don’t worry, we thought of everything! Below you will find all the episodes of PROCURE EN PARLE with a summary of the main points raised by our experts. If you don’t find the answers to your questions, please feel free to call our nurses on our 7/7 support line at 1 855 899-2873.
Symptoms, medical follow-up and treatments in Covid time – sept.8, 2020 (+)
The current pandemic has turned the course of patient care in oncology upside down.
Some medical procedures or follow-up appointments have been delayed and some diagnoses have been delayed did not take place. In this episode, Dr. Peter Vavassis tells you about all the procedures put in place to provide maximum service to prostate cancer patients during COVID.
Some medical procedures or follow-up appointments have been delayed and some diagnoses have been delayed did not take place. In this episode, Dr. Peter Vavassis tells you about all the procedures put in place to provide maximum service to prostate cancer patients during COVID.
WATCH THE WEBINAR VIDEO (Presented only in french)
5 THINGS TO REMEMBER
All about risk factors and screening – sept.15, 2020 (+)
Prostate cancer is the most common form of cancer among men in Quebec.
On average, every day, 12 Quebecers are diagnosed with prostate cancer, which represents 4,300 new cases per year. The causes of prostate cancer are not yet well understood, but some studies have identified various risk factors and the behaviours to adopt to reduce them.
In this video, Dr. Vincent Trudeau, PHD, FRCSC, urologist in Trois-Rivières, explains the risk factors of prostate cancer.
WATCH THE WEBINAR VIDEO (Presented only in french)
5 THINGS TO REMEMBER
Cancer from one generation to the next – Family history or genetics? – sept.23, 2020 (+)
Did you know that men who have cancer in their family are at higher risk of developing cancer and that, in general, men are at risk of developing cancer slightly earlier in their families?
But what genes are involved in prostate cancer? What are the risks if more than one first-degree relative has had prostate cancer? In this video, Dr. Frédéric Pouliot, PHD, FRCSC, uro-oncologist and molecular imaging researcher at the CHU de Québec, answers all the questions our patients ask themselves.
Prostate cancer: urinary, sexual or intestinal problems? – sept.29, 2020 (+)
Did you know that most prostate cancer treatments can affect your urinary function, sexual function and even the lining of the rectum? This can affect not only your quality of life, but your partner’s as well.
What are the sexual disorders and what remedies are available? What are the treatment options for bowel problems? What is urinary incontinence and how can it be treated?
Answer in this video with Dr. Thierry Lebeau, urological surgeon, head of the ICSU EMTL department at Université de Montréal.
In September, PROCURE demystifies the prostate!
In September, PROCURE demystifies the prostate!
IN SEPTEMBER, PROCURE DEMYSTIFIES THE PROSTATE!
September is Prostate Cancer Awareness Month. This month gives us the opportunity to think, listen, act and support these men and families who are victims of prostate cancer. Did you know that in Quebec, 18 men a day are diagnosed with prostate cancer? However, it is completely curable if it is discovered early enough, if it remains confined to the prostate and if it is treated in a timely manner.That’s why we encourage all men to talk to their doctors about the risk factors for prostate cancer, because there’s nothing to be embarrassed about!
Four patients courageously shared their experiences with prostate cancer on camera.
There are a number of treatments for prostate cancer. Depending on your stage and grade, your age, health, medical and family history, you may have several options. The decision is never easy. While Alain took the option of active surveillance, Winston preferred a complete removal of the prostate. Find out how 4 of our patients made their treatment choice.
Many people have advance notice of prostate cancer screening and diagnosis, they believe that only a digital rectal exam can detect it. Yet other solutions, which will reassure the most reluctant, exist. Our patients say it better than we do, talk openly to your doctor about the risk factors for prostate cancer, because there’s nothing to be embarrassed about!
cancer is never easy. It’s like the world is falling apart on your head. When you hear the word “cancer”, everything is turned upside down and a multitude of emotions, worries and concerns overwhelm you. It is a hard blow that you MUST NOT live alone! It is important and necessary to find support, to express your emotions and to talk openly about what is bothering you. While Jean preferred not to tell his family, he was able to find comfort through our 7/7 support line that connects him to nurses specialized in uro-oncology. Alain, on the other hand, found support with his children. But they are all out of the woods, and we have to talk about it!
Our patients are unanimous that open and honest communication is essential to deal with these changes. Whether it’s that famous erectile problem that men don’t talk about or urinary incontinence, these side effects don’t make you less than a man. Although your virility seems to be affected, what matters is your health and our patients have understood this. Here is the testimony of Winston, Claude, Alain and Jean, who will help you forget the prejudices you have!
Couldn’t make it to the webinar? Missed a crucial moment? Or do you just want to see it again? Don’t worry, we thought of everything! Below you will find all the episodes of PROCURE EN PARLE with a summary of the main points raised by our experts. If you don’t find the answers to your questions, please feel free to call our nurses on our 7/7 support line at 1-855-899-2873.
The current pandemic has turned the course of patient care in oncology upside down. Some medical procedures or follow-up appointments have been delayed and some diagnoses have been delayed did not take place.
In this episode, Dr. Peter Vavassis tells you about all the procedures put in place to provide maximum service to prostate cancer patients during COVID.
Watch the webinar (French)
Prostate cancer is the most common form of cancer among men in Quebec.
The causes of prostate cancer are not yet well understood, but some studies have identified various risk factors and the behaviours to adopt to reduce them. In this video, Dr. Vincent Trudeau, PHD, FRCSC, urologist in Trois-Rivières, explains the risk factors of prostate cancer.
Watch the webinar (French) 5 points to remember
Watch the webinar (French) 5 points to remember
Did you know that men who have cancer in their family are at higher risk of developing cancer and that, in general, men are at risk of developing cancer slightly earlier in their families?
But what genes are involved in prostate cancer? What are the risks if more than one first-degree relative has had prostate cancer? In this video, Dr. Frédéric Pouliot, PHD, FRCSC, uro-oncologist and molecular imaging researcher at the CHU de Québec, answers all the questions our patients ask themselves.
Did you know that most prostate cancer treatments can affect your urinary function, sexual function and even the lining of the rectum? This can affect not only your quality of life, but your partner’s as well.
What are the sexual disorders and what remedies are available? What are the treatment options for bowel problems? What is urinary incontinence and how can it be treated? Answer in this video with Dr. Thierry Lebeau, urological surgeon, head of the ICSU EMTL department at Université de Montréal.
Additional Information - Your prostate
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Cancer and Nutrition with Dr. Isabelle Huot
This conference provides concrete examples of recommended foods and products for patients.
Cultivating intimacy during and after prostate cancer
How can couples maintain intimacy during and after prostate cancer treatment? Is it possible to cultivate intimacy?
Radical surgery with Kevin Zorn
Learn about robotic radical surgery for prostate cancer and whether it is an option for you.
Advanced prostate cancer treatment strategies
Strategies for treating advanced cancer have significantly evolved, offering new options and hope for patients.
Sources and references
Last medical and editorial review: April 2024. See our web page validation committee and our collaborators by clicking here.
PROSTATE CANCER
Discover our animated video!
Symptoms, risk and screening
Are you over 50 years old, or have you been having urinary problems for some time now? This video is for you! Several diseases can affect your prostate, and it’s important to detect them early. Let’s take a closer look.
Anatomy
What is the prostate
The prostate is a gland:
- Located between the bladder and the penis, just in front of the rectum;
- Formed of 2 lobes which surround the urethra, a canal that runs through the center of the prostate, from the bladder to the penis, letting urine and sperm flow out of the body;
- The size of a walnut, which grows larger in size in your forties;
- That has a soft, spongy texture to the touch like a small, ripe plum.
The prostate is made of:
- Gland cells that secrete liquids for ejaculation;
- Muscle cells that participate in the evacuation of your sperm during ejaculation;
- Fiber cells that maintain the structure of the gland.
Around the prostate, we find:
- The seminal vesicles, glands that produce sperm and that are located on either side of the prostate;
- The vas deferens, the tube that carries sperm from the testicle to the seminal vesicles;
- The nerve bundles that control your bladder and erectile function and that are located on either side of your prostate.
Structure
Three main zones of the prostate
Peripheral zone
- The peripheral zone is the largest area of the prostate. It can easily be felt by the doctor during a digital rectal exam (DRE).
- Most prostate cancers start in the peripheral zone.
Transition zone
- This is the area located in the middle of the prostate, between the peripheral and central areas. It surrounds your urethra that runs through the prostate.
- With age, the transitional area increases in size until it becomes the largest portion of your prostate. This is called benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) or enlarged prostate.
Central zone
- It is the part of the prostate that is farthest from the rectum. This is why prostate tumors located in this area can not be felt by the doctor during a digital rectal examination.
- If the doctor is in doubt, the following information will help decide if additional investigation is necessary:
- Your PSA level
- Your age and family history
- Your ethnic origin
Fonction
In short
Your fertility and natural fertilization
- It produces … a prostatic fluid rich in enzymes, proteins and minerals that nourishes and protects your spermatozoa.
- It makes … a protein (APS) that is used to liquefy your sperm to facilitate the mobility of your spermatozoa.
- It allows … ejaculation by contracting.
- It promotes … fertility through its enzymes facilitating the penetration of sperm through the cervix.
- It is not related to the mechanism of erection. Therefore, the origin of erectile dysfunction lies elsewhere.
Additional details
Exocrine Function
The prostate is made up of thousands of tiny fluid-producing glands. Specifically, the prostate is an exocrine gland. Exocrine glands are so-called because they secrete through ducts to the outside of the body (or into a cavity that communicates with the outside). Sweat glands are another example of an exocrine gland.
The fluid that the prostate gland produces forms part of semen, the fluid that carries sperm during orgasm. This fluid, produced in the prostate, is stored with sperm in the seminal vesicles. When the male climaxes, muscular contractions cause the prostate to secrete this fluid into the urethra, where it is expelled from the body through the penis.
Urine Flow
The prostate wraps itself around the urethra as it passes from the bladder to the penis. Prostatic changes can affect urine flow. Increasing the size of the prostate or muscle tone may impede the flow of urine due to the close anatomical relationship between the urethra and the prostate.
Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA)
The prostate also produces a protein called prostate-specific antigen (PSA). PSA is released with the ejaculatory fluid and can also be traced in the bloodstream. The testing of PSA levels in the blood is used to detect prostate cancer. The level of PSA in the blood is usually measured in nanograms of PSA per milliliter of blood (ng/mL).
A raised PSA level
Usually, a PSA rate of less than 4 nanograms per milliliter of blood is normal, but age should also be taken into consideration as PSA levels gradually increase with age. A rise in PSA concentration may indicate the presence of:
- An enlarged prostate (benign prostatic hyperplasia)
- An inflammation or infection of the prostate (prostatitis)
- A prostate cancer
Your doctor will have you undergo other tests to determine the exact cause of the increase in your PSA.
We are here for you
You have questions or concerns? Don’t hesitate. Contact us at 1-855-899-2873 to discuss with one of our nurses specialized in uro-oncology. They are there to listen, support and answer your questions, and those of your family or your loved ones. It’s simple and free, like all of our other services.
Also take the time to visit each of our pages on this website, as well as our YouTube channel, in order to get familiar with the disease, our expert lectures, our section on available resources, the support that is offered to you, our events and ways to get involved to advance the cause..
Staying Informed
Pages that might interest you
Want to know more? Just click on one of the links below.
The latest PROCURE news that might interest you
Every week we publish a blog article. Here are some for you.
The medical content and editorial team at PROCURE
Our team is composed of urologists, and nurses certified in uro-oncology with a deep knowledge of prostate cancer and other diseases related to the genitourinary system. Meet our staff by clicking here.
Sources and references
- Prostate Cancer – Understand the disease and its treatments; Fred Saad, MD, FRCSC and Michael McCormack, MD, FRCSC, 4th et 5th editions
- Canadian Cancer Society
- Prostate Cancer Foundation-PCF.org
- National Cancer Institute-USA
- American Cancer Society
- Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center
- Prostate Cancer UK
Last medical and editorial review: September 2023
Written by PROCURE. © All rights reserved
