New data shows that cases of prostate
cancer - the third deadliest form of the disease -are due to double within the next 20 years. The figures show that annual worldwide cases of prostate cancer will rise from 1.4 million to 2.9 million between 2020 and 2040. Deaths from the disease are also expected to rise by 85 per cent Currently, prostate cancer is the overall second most common cancer and the third deadliest in the UK, contributing alongside lung, bowel and breast cancer and to almost half of all cancer deaths. 12,000 men die of the disease each year in the UK, according to Cancer Research UK, making it second deadliest cancer for males. Unfortunately, the main risk factor for the disease is age, which is of course not something anyone can prevent and is a large reason for why cases will so drastically rise as ageing populations and life expectancy grows. Black males are also more likely to develop the disease, as well of those with a family history. Boots shoppers praise 'luxurious' £22 anti-ageing face cream that 'tightens' and plumps skin But key to treating any cancer effectively is catching it early and it is easier to do that when you know the symptoms. Survival rates for prostate cancer double when treated at stage one or two compared with stage four. Nearly all prostate cancer indicators are related to the passing of urine due to the location of the organ in the body. Here are five signs that you need to look out for: Frequency -Needing to pee more frequently and/or having to use the toilet in the night more than usual. Urgency - Struggling to hold your pee and having to rush to the toilet. Difficulty - Finding it hard to begin peeing (hesitancy), straining or taking a long time to pee and/or having a weak flow Comfort -Feeling like your bladder is still full or has not been emptied properly after you have peed. Colour - Finding blood in your urine or semen. If you believe you are experiencing any of these symptoms and are worried, contact your GP who can offer advice and refer you for more detailed tests. However, some of these symptoms could also indicate the non-cancerous condition called benign prostate enlargement. The
UK currently supports an "informed testing" approach, meaning that any man over the age of 50 can approach their GP for testing. Prostate cancer symptoms often don't occur until the cancer is in its later stages which is why it is important to get tested if you believe you are at risk. The The Lancet Commission on prostate cancer advocate for early-detection programmes for those at high risk, further research into risk factors like ethnicity as well as more awareness of prostate cancer to improve rates of early diagnosis. Nick James, lead author of the commission and Professor of prostate and bladder cancer research at the Institute of Cancer Research,
London, said: “As more and more men around the world live to middle and old age, there will be an inevitable rise in the number of prostate cancer cases. “We know this surge in cases is coming, so we need to start planning and take action now. Evidence-based interventions, such as improved early detection and education programmes, will help to save lives and prevent ill health from prostate cancer in the years to come. This is especially true for low- and middle-income countries which will bear the overwhelming brunt of future cases."