Are you at risk for prostate cancer?

It’s called the men’s silent killer because in most cases, it does not produce any symptoms. Prostate cancer, which occurs when cells within the prostate grow uncontrollably which create small tumors, is one of the most common cancers in men around the world, killing one almost every 19 minutes, and a new case discovered every 2 and a half minute. It is now fast becoming prevalent in Asia and in the Philippines; it currently belongs to the top five cancers in men. In 2005 alone, about 4,000 prostate cancer cases were reported.

This is indeed alarming, but the problem is, this type of cancer usually starts slow and remains confined to the gland for many years, producing little or no symptoms at all. Symptoms and signs only manifest when the prostate cancer is already in its advanced stage. What’s more alarming is that the risk of developing the disease increases with age. But not too many Filipinos know they are suffering from the disease – until it’s too late.

The importance of early detection in this type of cancer has never been more emphasized in recent years. Asian Hospital and Medical Center, for instance, has been constantly educating the public about prostate cancer through its “Pa-DRE Ka, Pare Ko” activity, a free digital rectal examination (DRE) offered to men above 40 years old to help them know how they can protect themselves against prostate disease.

This year, Asian Hospital and Medical Center once again gave this gift of health to dads in time for Father’s Day. The free DRE screening was held June 19, 2010 from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Emergency Room of the Asian Hospital and Medical Center.

“Pa-DRE Ka, Pare Ko!” is now on its sixth year of raising awareness among Filipino men on prostate diseases. Men who are 40 years old and above are invited to attend the free screening to help assess their risk for the disease and for early detection and treatment.

The free screening is organized by the Section of Urology of the Department of Surgery of Asian Hospital and Medical Center, in cooperation with the Philippine Urological Association.

*image taken from: http://catherinemaname.wordpress.com/2009/02/17/learning-about-prostate-cancer/