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Prostate Cancer
Prostate Cancer- A guide to Symptoms, Risks, Prevention and Cure
Prostate Cancer- Causes, Symptoms, Prevention and Cure
Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers in men, developing in the prostate gland, which produces seminal fluid. While many prostate cancers grow slowly and cause little harm, some are aggressive and spread quickly, requiring urgent attention.
As a medical oncologist, I know the difference early detection can make. With screening and modern treatment options, survival rates are very high — especially when prostate cancer is caught in its early stages.
By becoming informed about prostate cancer, you’re making a valuable step for yourself, your loved ones, and your long-term health.
What is Prostate Cancer?
Prostate cancer occurs when the cells in the prostate gland begin to grow uncontrollably. While many cases are detected early and managed successfully, advanced prostate cancer can cause serious health issues.
Types of Prostate Cancer
Most prostate cancers are adenocarcinomas, which develop in the glandular cells of the prostate. Other rare types include:
Small cell carcinomas
Neuroendocrine tumors
Transitional cell carcinomas
Sarcomas
Signs and Symptoms of Prostate Cancer
In early stages, prostate cancer may not cause noticeable symptoms. When symptoms do occur, they may include:
Frequent urination, especially at night
Difficulty starting or stopping urination
Weak or interrupted urine stream
Blood in urine or semen
Painful ejaculation
Pelvic discomfort
Bone pain (in advanced stages, if cancer spreads)
Risk Factors for Prostate Cancer
Factors that increase the risk of prostate cancer include:
Age: Risk increases after age 50.
Family history: Having a father or brother with prostate cancer.
Genetic factors: BRCA1, BRCA2 mutations, and Lynch syndrome.
Race: More common and aggressive in African and African-Caribbean men.
Diet and lifestyle: High-fat diets and obesity may contribute.
Prostate Cancer Screening
Screening can help detect prostate cancer early, often before symptoms appear. Common methods include:
Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test: A blood test measuring PSA levels.
Digital rectal exam (DRE): A physical exam to check for prostate abnormalities.
MRI or biopsy: Used if screening tests suggest abnormalities.
Screening is usually considered from age 50 for average-risk men, and earlier (around 45) for high-risk groups.
When to See a Doctor?
Seek medical evaluation if you notice:
Persistent urinary problems
Blood in urine or semen
Unexplained pelvic or back pain
Unexplained weight loss or fatigue
Treatment for Prostate Cancer
Treatment depends on the stage of cancer, overall health, and patient preferences:
Active surveillance: Monitoring slow-growing cancers without immediate treatment.
Surgery (radical prostatectomy): Removal of the prostate gland.
Radiation therapy: External beam or brachytherapy (internal radiation).
Hormone therapy (androgen deprivation therapy): Lowers testosterone to slow cancer growth.
Chemotherapy: Used in advanced cases.
Targeted therapy and immunotherapy: Options for cancers with specific genetic changes.
Some Facts vs Myths about Prostate Cancer
Myth: Prostate cancer always causes symptoms early.
Fact: Many men have no symptoms until cancer is advanced.Myth: High PSA always means cancer.
Fact: PSA can rise due to non-cancerous conditions like infection or enlargement.Myth: Prostate cancer is always fatal.
Fact: Most prostate cancers grow slowly, and survival rates are very high with early detection.Myth: Surgery always leads to loss of sexual function or incontinence.
Fact: Advances in surgical techniques have significantly reduced these risks.
