Movember is a time to focus on the health and well-being of men across the world. It’s a reminder for men to take charge of their health and to prioritize regular checkups and screenings. One of the most important areas of a man’s well being is their prostate health, and that’s why this Movember we are encouraging men to prioritize their prostate health.
The prostate is a small gland located just below the bladder, and it’s a crucial part of the male reproductive system. As men age, the prostate can become enlarged or develop other conditions, such as prostate cancer. In fact, prostate cancer is the most common cancer among men in Canada, with one in eight men being diagnosed with it in their lifetime. Prostate conditions can cause a variety of symptoms, but some common symptoms include difficulty urinating, blood in the urine or semen, pain or discomfort in the lower back, pelvis, or upper thighs, erectile dysfunction, and urinary tract infections. If you are experiencing these symptoms, it is important to speak to your doctor.
The good news is that there are steps men can take to maintain their prostate health and reduce their risk of developing prostate cancer. These steps include:
- Getting regular checkups: Men should have a regular checkup with their doctor to monitor their prostate health. During this checkup, their doctor may perform a digital rectal exam (DRE) and or a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test to check for any signs of prostate cancer.
- Eating a healthy diet: A healthy diet that’s low in fat and high in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help reduce the risk of prostate cancer. Your pharmacist can provide you with resources to guide you towards eating a healthier diet and can also connect you with a registered dietician.
- Staying active: Regular exercise can help maintain a healthy weight, which is important for reducing the risk of prostate cancer.
- Quitting smoking: Smoking is a risk factor for prostate cancer, so quitting smoking is essential for maintaining prostate health. Your PharmaChoice pharmacist offers an array of services and products that can support your effort to quit smoking.
At PharmaChoice, we’re committed to helping men maintain their health and well-being. This Men’s Health Month, we encourage men to prioritize their prostate health by educating themselves on preventable measures as well as the signs of prostate conditions. Your PharmaChoice pharmacist is always there to provide information, advice, and support. Don’t hesitate to seek medical attention if you’re concerned about your prostate health, early detection and treatment of prostate conditions can improve outcomes and quality of life. Remember, by taking care of your prostate health, you’re taking an important step towards a healthier, happier life.
