Movember was created to raise awareness during Men’s Health Month. This month reminds us that men’s health deserves the same open, informed attention as any other aspect of well-being. Behind every statistic there is a story — one that often begins with silence.
Dr. Walter Castorina:
“Talking to a doctor is not a sign of weakness but of awareness. A brief, honest conversation can prevent serious illness, improve quality of life, and extend longevity. Prevention really does begin with a conversation: a small test today can avoid a big problem tomorrow. Taking care of the skin or the prostate ultimately means the same thing: living longer, living better, and doing it consciously.”
Male health should be seen as a continuum that connects cardiovascular balance, hormonal function, and even skin condition. The prostate, in this sense, is a small but powerful indicator of overall vitality and self-care.
The prostate: A small gland with a big role
Roughly the size of a walnut, the main function of the prostate is to produce part of the seminal fluid that nourishes and protects sperm. It plays a crucial role in the male reproductive system and in the continuation of life itself.
Though small, its well-being depends on male hormones such as testosterone and dihydrotestosterone (DHT) and is strongly linked to metabolism, ageing, and lifestyle.
Over time, the gland may enlarge (benign hyperplasia) or undergo cellular changes. Understanding these mechanisms helps explain why prostate health often mirrors general health.
Prostate cancer in three keywords: Common, Detectable, and Treatable
Prostate cancer is the most frequently diagnosed cancer among men in Europe, accounting for roughly one in five new male cancer cases each year — over 470,000 diagnoses and more than 100,000 deaths annually across the continent.
Fortunately, when detected early, it is highly treatable and often requires less invasive therapies. The real challenge is balancing the risk of delayed diagnosis with that of overdiagnosis.
Modern guidelines now encourage risk-adapted screening, where the decision to test depends on each man’s personal risk profile rather than a one-size-fits-all approach.
Who is at risk and when to get checked
- Age: Risk increases after 50; from that age onwards, it’s wise to discuss screening with your doctor.
- Family history: Having a father or brother with prostate cancer doubles the risk. In this case, screening should begin at 45.
- Genetic factors: Certain mutations, similar to those linked to some breast cancers, can also affect men.
- Lifestyle: Obesity, smoking, eating a high-fat diet, and lack of physical activity increase the risk. Staying active and eating well also protects the prostate.
- Life expectancy: Screening makes sense, especially for those who still have an active, healthy life ahead. The goal is to live better, not just longer.
- Sexually transmitted diseases: Chronic inflammation from untreated infections can alter prostate cells over time. Safe sex, vaccination, and good hygiene all help prevent this.
Recognising early warning signs
The body often speaks before disease appears.
Men should pay attention to:
- Persistent urinary difficulties or frequent urination at night;
- Blood in urine or semen;
- Unexplained bone pain after the age of 50.
Any of these warrants a medical check — not alarm, but prevention.
Screening: Simple, quick, and effective
After 50 — or 45 if there’s a family history — a simple PSA blood test can provide valuable information. If its results, together with a medical examination, raise concern, further tests such as MRI or targeted biopsy may follow, but only when necessary.
Across Europe, approaches differ, yet the principle is the same: screening should be personalised and discussed with one’s doctor. Whether through national programmes or individual initiatives, prevention always begins with dialogue.
Hormones, skin, and the prostate: One connected system
Both skin and prostate respond to the same hormonal signals, especially DHT. This hormone regulates sebum production, hair growth, and skin activity — but also stimulates prostate cells.
This connection shows how dermatology, endocrinology, and oncology are part of one larger picture.
The skin often reflects internal balance: oxidative stress, inflammation, and hormonal shifts all leave visible signs.
That’s why modern aesthetic and anti-ageing medicine, with its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory focus, contributes not only to outer appearance but to systemic health.
Nowadays, many men see an aesthetic doctor before visiting a urologist. That’s why every consultation can be an opportunity to talk about prevention and well-being.
Caring for the image is also caring for the body. Real strength begins with self-care.
03.11.2025.
Author: Walter Castorina, MD
Specialist in Family Medicine
Lecturer in Anatomy
Aesthetic Physician
