Men’s reluctance to undergo digital rectal examination continues to be one of the biggest obstacles to the early diagnosis of prostate cancer in Brazil. Although this is a quick, safe, and painless procedure, many men still view touching as shame, embarrassment, or a threat to their masculinity.
Experts say this fantasy is fueled by cultural taboos and ultimately has a direct impact on men’s health. Delayed diagnosis can cost years of life.
“Physical discomfort is minimal. The biggest challenge lies in the stigma that precedes the exam. For many people, the imagined embarrassment is greater than the actual experience. And it is precisely this emotional barrier that still keeps thousands of men away from the office,” explains urologist Rodrigo Albex.
Please also read
-
health
Eating well is how to prevent prostate cancer
-
health
Prostate Health: Learn about the myths and truths about prostate cancer
-
It’s a little embarrassing
Blue November: Prostate cancer remains linked to taboos around sexuality
-
health
New drug combination slows progression of advanced prostate cancer
prostate cancer
- prostate cancer most common among menAccording to the Ministry of Health, after the skin.
- In the early stages, prostate cancer may have no symptoms. The most common signs include difficulty urinating, a delay in starting and stopping urination, blood in the urine, decreased urine output, and the need to go to the bathroom frequently throughout the day and night.
- fart The cause is not completely understood, but However, several factors can increase your risk, including age, family history, obesity, diet, smoking, and chemical exposure.
- The disease is confirmed after biopsyindicated if any changes are found in the blood test (PSA) or digital rectal test, which is prescribed based on the suspicions of the specialist.
In his office, Urbex has noticed that most patients feel only a slight amount of pressure during the procedure. Nothing can match the fear that comes with that. The test takes only 10 seconds and is carefully performed to reduce discomfort.
The specialist performing this test uses gloves and lubricant to palpate the prostate with delicate movements to identify changes that cannot be detected by blood tests such as prostate-specific antigen (PSA).
Despite advances in laboratory diagnosis, rectal examination remains important because it can detect nodules, indurations, and other physical changes that go unnoticed with PSA. Arbex confirms that up to 20% of tumors can be identified by touch, even if the PSA is normal.
Another common myth is that all men should start getting palpable exams after age 50. It is recommended that a urologist determine the best method and timing of screening on a case-by-case basis, taking into account age, family history, race, and risk factors.
“Treatment should start at age 45 for black men, obese men, or men with a family history of prostate cancer. These groups are more likely to develop malignant tumors and therefore require special attention,” explains urologist Rodrigo Braz.
Patients without risk factors can wait to begin screening with PSA, physical exam, and ultrasound after age 50.
Regularity is also important. It is generally recommended that evaluations be repeated annually, as studies have shown that continued monitoring significantly reduces mortality rates.
Why is a digital rectal exam important?
- Detects changes that PSA may not be able to identify. Palpable tumors may appear even if the PSA is normal.
- Fast, painless, and long-lasting effect Less than 1 minute.
- Early diagnosis becomes possible, Chance of recovery is over 90% In the initial case.
- Complements blood tests and imaging testsprovides a more complete assessment of the prostate.
- reduce mortality If performed regularly within the annual screening.
Urbex stresses that the test has few real contraindications. For example, in case of acute bacterial prostatitis, touching is not recommended, as it can worsen the inflammation. Otherwise, the procedure is safe and only performed with patient consent. A candid conversation with your urologist can help reduce anxiety and dispel any misconceptions that the test will affect your masculinity.
Warning signs and symptoms
Prostate cancer often causes no symptoms at first, but some signs are worth investigating, especially changes in your urine, such as a weak urinary flow, urgency, or frequent awakenings during the night.
Experts warn that it’s important to remember that most of these symptoms are of benign origin, such as benign prostatic hyperplasia (non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate). Still, only a medical evaluation can distinguish one condition from another and avoid delays in diagnosis.
responsibility for one’s own health
For both doctors, the emotional maturity of facing touch speaks more to their responsibility for their own health than any culturally constructed image of “strength.”
After all, taboo speaks louder than discomfort. The physical sensations last for a few seconds, but the effects of avoiding them can last a lifetime. According to the National Cancer Institute (Inca), prostate cancer is the second most common cancer in Brazilian men, killing more than 16,000 men a year.
The pertinent message on this issue is that by ignoring such a quick and easy test out of shame, you are putting your life at risk. “The fear of an exam is no greater than the fear of losing your life,” Urbex summarizes. Taking care of your health also takes courage.
Follow the Health Science Editor on Instagram to stay up to date on the subject.
About The Author
