Go to main content
Rue du Grand-Chêne 8bis, 1003 Lausanne, Switzerland
NEWS

Movember: Prostate Cancer Awareness and Early Detection

Understanding Movember and the importance of early screening

Every November, millions of men around the world mobilize for a common cause: their health. The Movember movement, a portmanteau of "moustache" and "November," goes far beyond a simple symbol. It's a call to action to raise awareness of the major issues affecting men's health, including prostate cancer, testicular cancer, and mental health disorders.

In Switzerland, approximately 6,000 new cases of prostate cancer are diagnosed each year, making it the most common cancer in men. However, when detected early, the five-year survival rate exceeds 95%. This statistic illustrates the fundamental importance of early detection and accurate diagnostic tests.

Movember is not just about raising awareness. It's an annual opportunity for every man to take control of his health, discuss personal risk factors with his doctor, and consider screening options tailored to his situation.

Risk factors for prostate cancer

Before discussing screening, it is essential to understand who is affected. Several factors increase the risk of developing prostate cancer:

  • Age: The risk increases significantly after age 50, and even as early as age 40 for men with a family history of the disease.
  • Heredity: Having an affected father or brother doubles or triples the risk
  • Ethnic origin: Men of African descent are at higher risk
  • Lifestyle: Diet, physical exercise and weight play an important role

Understanding these personal factors is the first step towards effective prevention.

Awareness: Breaking taboos surrounding men's health

Why do we talk so little about prostate health?

Men's health remains a taboo subject in many societies. Unlike breast cancer screening, which is widely accepted and routinely performed, prostate cancer screening suffers from prejudice and misinformation. Some men even avoid getting screened due to discomfort or a lack of awareness.

Movember is changing this dynamic. By normalizing the conversation around men's health, this movement creates a safe space to ask questions, share concerns, and make informed decisions.

The psychological benefits of early detection

Beyond the purely medical aspects, early detection offers considerable psychological benefits:

  • Peace of mind: Knowing that everything is alright or detecting a problem early reduces anxiety
  • A sense of control: Taking preventative measures strengthens autonomy and confidence
  • Better relationships: Taking responsibility for men's health promotes overall well-being and interpersonal relationships.

Raising awareness begins with accepting that taking care of oneself is not a luxury, but a necessity.

Prostate Cancer Screening: Options and Recommendations

Available screening tests

Today, several methods exist to assess prostate health:

  1. Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA)
    is a protein produced by the prostate gland. A simple blood test measures its level. However, a high PSA level does not necessarily mean cancer – it can indicate an infection or simply an enlarged prostate.
  2. Digital rectal examination (DRE):
    Although less popular today, this examination remains relevant as a complement to other methods. It allows the physician to assess the texture and size of the prostate.
  3. Multiparametric prostate MRI:
    This advanced imaging technique provides a detailed view of the prostate and allows for the precise identification of suspicious areas. It is often the next step after an abnormal PSA level or concerning symptoms.
  4. UroNav-guided prostate biopsy: A leading innovation.
    For cases requiring confirmation, MRI-guided prostate biopsy (UroNav) is the most advanced technique available. This unique fusion of MRI and real-time ultrasound imaging offers unparalleled diagnostic accuracy.

Screening recommendations according to age and risk

Current medical recommendations suggest:

  • Men aged 40-50 without particular risk factors: Consult your doctor to discuss the benefits and risks of screening
  • Men aged 40-50 with risk factors (family history, ethnic origin): Annual screening recommended
  • Men over 50 : An annual check-up is generally recommended
  • Men with a family history: Start monitoring from age 35-40

The important thing is to have an informed conversation with your general practitioner or a urologist.

CID Lausanne: Expertise and Technology at the Service of Screening

Prostate Biopsy using UroNav: Reference Accuracy

The CID Lausanne has been a pioneer in Europe since 2013 in the use of UroNav technology for prostate biopsy. This revolutionary approach combines the diagnostic power of MRI with real-time ultrasound guidance, enabling precise detection of prostate cancer.

Impressive results: With over 7,000 examinations performed, the CID has established unparalleled expertise in this technique. Image fusion allows for the identification and biopsy of clinically significant areas with significantly greater precision than traditional methods.

RM with Artificial Intelligence

The next-generation MRI at the CID benefits from Deep Resolve technology, which delivers results that are 73% faster and twice as clear. This acceleration means improved patient comfort while maintaining optimal diagnostic resolution. For claustrophobic or distressed patients, this technology significantly reduces the time spent in the machine, making the experience much more tolerable.

A patient-centered environment

Beyond technology, the CID places the patient experience at the heart of its approach:

  • Free transport: For patients with mobility difficulties
  • Practical opening hours: Open Monday to Friday, from 6:30 am to 7:00 pm
  • Expert teams: Radiologists and technicians trained in the most modern protocols
  • Clear communication: Explanations accessible to patients and healthcare professionals

For Healthcare Professionals: Optimizing the Diagnostic Pathway

Integrating CID into your diagnostic strategy

General practitioners and urologists can seamlessly integrate into the CID services:

  • Precise reference for multiparametric MRI: Initial diagnosis of at-risk patients
  • UroNav-guided biopsy: For diagnostic confirmation with maximum accuracy
  • Continuity of care: Detailed reports and guidance for further treatment

Simplified prescriptions

A duly completed radiology requisition form is all that is needed to access CID services. The center guides healthcare professionals through each step of the process.

Direct contact:

Movember in Action: Take Action

What you can do right now

For men:

  1. Assess your risk: Talk to your parents, uncles or brothers – is there a history of prostate cancer in your family?
  2. Consult your doctor: Discuss the relevance of screening based on your risk profile
  3. Schedule an exam: If recommended, don't postpone it.
  4. Share the message: Encourage other men to take control of their health

For healthcare professionals:

  1. Raise awareness among your patients: Use Movember to address the topic
  2. Update your knowledge: Screening techniques are constantly evolving
  3. Build partnerships: The CID can be a trusted ally for quality diagnostic imaging

Resources and support

The Movember Foundation offers resources, webinars, and support communities. Testimonials from prostate cancer survivors can inspire and reassure.

Early Detection Saves Lives

Movember isn't just about flies or symbolic awareness – it's an annual reminder that prevention and early detection save lives. With survival rates exceeding 95% when cancer is detected early, the stakes are enormous.

The CID Lausanne, with its cutting-edge technologies and internationally recognized expertise, positions itself as a trusted partner for screening and diagnosis. Whether you are a man seeking to take control of your health or a healthcare professional guiding your patients, the action starts today.

Don't wait until next November. Making an appointment with the CID Lausanne is an investment in your health.

To contact us:

Lausanne Diagnostic Imaging Center (CID)

Book an appointment today: Because your health can't wait.