Blue November: Prostate Cancer Awareness Month

In order to draw attention to the importance of early diagnosis of prostate cancer, the Lado a Lado pela Vida Institute launched in 2011 the “Blue November” awareness campaign. This action, carried out with the support of the Ministry of Health and the National Cancer Institute (INCA), has become one of the most important movements for men's health.

Being considered the second most common cancer among men, prostate cancer is the cause of death for 28.6% of the male population. According to Inca, every 38 minutes a man dies due to the illness in Brazil. For the professor at the University of Rio Verde and urologist, Gustavo Franco, early diagnosis is a fundamental ally to prevent the increase in this number.

“Going to the urologist annually prevents the patient from being surprised by the diagnosis of advanced prostate cancer. The recommendation is that men over 50 start taking the exams periodically. Early diagnosis increases the chances of cure. This is a very important campaign as it contributes to ensuring access to information and breaking down prejudice around the topic,” the doctor highlighted.

Prostate cancer can be identified by performing a blood test that assesses the amount of prostate-specific antigen or digital rectal examination. Initially the cancer manifests itself silently, then in advanced stages the patient can experience bone pain, urinary symptoms or even generalized infection and kidney failure. Currently there are many forms of treatment, such as radiotherapy, surgery, hormone therapy. The choice of treatment varies according to the condition of each patient.