Overview
Prostate cancer is a form of cancer that begins in the prostate gland. The prostate is a tiny gland very similar to the size of a walnut located at the base of the bladder. Cancer cells occur in the prostate when the abnormal cells start to multiply and grow in an uncontrollable way. These cells may invade nearby tissue or other organs and spread throughout the body.
Typical signs of metastatic prostate cancer include:
- Bone or back pain that fails to dissipate
- Lethargy
- Unexplainable weight loss
It's important to note that in the early stages, prostate cancer often doesn't show any symptoms. Most forms of prostate cancer start in the outer region of the prostate gland. However, when symptoms do appear, it's a sign that the cancer has grown large enough to press against the urethra and increase pressure in the area. This underscores the importance of regular check-ups and early detection.
Aetiology
Possible risk factors for prostate cancer include:
- • Age
- • A family history of the disease
- • Lifestyle patterns
- • Underlying health conditions
Diagnosis
There are several tests conducted to diagnose prostate cancer, such as:
- A digital rectal examination is an assessment that enables the doctor to feel the back wall of the prostate. This exam alone cannot be used to diagnose prostate cancer, and additional tests will be required.
- PSA test: A Prostate-Specific Antigen test traces the level of PSA in a blood sample retrieved. Blood is drawn and transferred to the laboratory to test the PSA levels in the blood. PSA is a type of protein secreted by cancerous and benign tissue in the prostate.
- Biopsy: A prostate biopsy is a less invasive diagnostic procedure to determine whether cancerous cells are present in the prostate. The procedure entails removing a sample of tissue from the prostate for further analysis.
Treatment
Treatment for prostate cancer depends on the stage of the cancer, the patient profile and eligibility.
Types of treatments include:
- Surgical resection of affected prostate tissue
- Radiotherapy delivered externally together with hormone therapy
- Brachytherapy (internal radiotherapy)
- Chemotherapy
- Hormone therapy
FAQ
- Blood in semen or urine
- Pain in the bone
- Difficulty urinating
- Weight loss
- Fever
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What are considered concerning urological symptoms?
- A weak urinary stream
- Signs of bladder stones
- Difficulty urinating
- Pain