HEALTH TOPICS

Q: I’ve heard that smoking might affect my risk for prostate cancer. Is that true?

A: In short, yes. A major study examined the health and habits of about 5000 men diagnosed with prostate cancer. Researchers found that when compared to men who never smoked, smokers at the time of diagnosis were 61% more likely to die of the cancer. They were also more likely to have a reoccurrence of the disease.

Researchers believe that the chemicals found in tobacco smoke may make cancerous tumors in the prostate grow more quickly. If you smoke, don’t put off kicking the habit. Talk with your doctor or pharmacist at your local Good Neighbor Pharmacy about over-the-counter and prescription medications that can help you quit.

Q: My wife just had a baby, and I’ve been feeling a little depressed. Is this normal?

A: You aren’t alone. A recent research review found that about one in 10 men suffers from prenatal and postpartum depression. Dads seemed most at risk three to six months after a new baby’s birth. They were more often depressed if mothers were, too.

Depressed men may cope by using drugs and alcohol, working more or becoming angry. If you experienced these and other signs—like irritability, fatigue and loss of interest in formerly pleasurable activities--- talk with your doctor. Getting help is good for you, your partner, and your kids.

Q: I felt a lump in my testicle, but I’m only in my 20s. I’m too young to have testicular cancer, right?

A: In fact, almost half of all men who develop testicular cancer are between ages 20 and 34. Testicular cancer is more common in men who:

Have an undescended testicle, that did not drop into the proper position before birth

Are Caucasian

Have a family history of the disease

Have had cancer in the other testicle

Men or their doctors usually feel a lump in the testicles or notice that one is swollen. Some men report a heavy or aching feeling in the abdomen or groin. To check for testicular cancer, your doctor may perform blood tests, an ultrasound of the scrotum or other imaging tests on the abdomen and pelvis.

If you have testicular cancer, a surgeon will most likely remove the cancerous testicle. Radiation therapy and chemotherapy may also be used. In most cases, testicular cancer can be cured, and men go on to live happy and healthy lives. 

Good Neighbor Pharmacy June 2012