Life Clinic is holding a free evening to raise awareness about prevention with Dr. Lembo, urologist and andrologist at Life Clinic.
November is the month dedicated to the prevention of prostate cancer, one of the most common cancers among men, especially those aged 50 and over. Prostate cancer is the second most diagnosed form of cancer in men, with about 37,000 new cases each year in Italy. The good news is that, if detected at an early stage, it has an excellent prognosis, with a five-year survival of more than 90%. However, early detection and awareness remain key to early intervention.
Just to emphasize the importance of prevention, Life Clinic is holding a free information evening, open to all, on Nov. 13, with Dr. Francesco Lembo, urologist and andrologist. The meeting is designed to give participants a comprehensive overview of how and when to start monitoring prostate health, what exams to perform and how often, as well as provide an answer to any doubts or concerns.
Dr. Lembo, when to start prevention?
"Prostate cancer, often asymptomatic in its early stages, can be detected early through regular monitoring. Prevention should begin from the age of 50 for men without special risk factors. In these cases, annual follow-up through two key examinations are recommended: PSA (Prostate Specific Antigen) assay and urological examination.
However, for men with a family history of prostate cancer or other predisposing conditions, surveillance should begin as early as age 45. PSA is a simple blood test that can provide crucial insights into prostate health. This blood test in conjunction with a urological examination is an effective tool for early detection of prostate cancer.
Early diagnosis: a key defense?
"One of the most sensitive aspects related to prostate cancer is its slow progression. Many men may not realize they have cancer until it reaches an advanced stage, but regular follow-up can make the difference between early intervention and late diagnosis.
Some signs to look out for may include difficulty urinating, blood in urine or semen, and pain during ejaculation, but these symptoms generally occur at a more advanced stage. You don't have to wait for symptoms to appear to do prevention: in many cases, the cancer is discovered before it becomes clinically evident, thanks to tests such as the PSA."
The evening of November 13: information and awareness
During the Nov. 13 meeting, Dr. Lembo will provide detailed information on prostate cancer prevention, diagnosis and modern treatments. The benefits and limitations of PSA will be explained, as well as shedding light on the most advanced diagnostic options, such as targeted prostate biopsy and multiparametric MRI, which are being used to detect tumors more and more accurately.
The evening will also be an opportunity to break taboos that often surround men's health and encourage men to take care of themselves without embarrassment. There is still a reluctance among men to get regular checkups, but prevention should not be seen as a sign of weakness, but rather as a conscious health choice.
How important is it to promote a healthy lifestyle?
Along with medical prevention, we also emphasize the importance of a healthy lifestyle in reducing the risk of prostate cancer. A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and low in saturated fats, together with regular physical activity, can reduce the risk of developing cancer. In addition, the positive impact of an active sex life and maintaining an adequate body weight will be discussed.
November is Prostate Cancer Prevention Month, an opportunity to remind all men of the importance of early detection. The free information evening on Nov. 13 at Life Clinic is a valuable opportunity to gain awareness and approach the topic of prevention with peace of mind. Participating means investing in your health, because taking care of yourself today can make a difference tomorrow.
