Prostate Cancer
Prostate cancer arises in the prostate gland — a small, walnut-shaped organ in men that helps produce seminal fluid. It is one of the most common cancers affecting men, especially as they grow older. Many prostate cancers grow slowly and may not cause symptoms initially, but some can be aggressive and spread to other parts of the body if not detected and treated early.
Early diagnosis improves treatment options and outcomes. Regular screening and awareness of symptoms are important for men at risk.
Symptoms of Prostate Cancer
Early-stage prostate cancer often causes no symptoms. When symptoms occur, they may include:
- Frequent urination, particularly at night (nocturia)
- Difficulty starting or stopping urination
- Weak or interrupted urine stream
- Pain or burning during urination or ejaculation
- Blood in urine or semen
- Persistent pain in the lower back, hips, or thighs
- Erectile dysfunction or other sexual difficulties
Note: These symptoms can also result from non-cancerous conditions (e.g., benign prostatic hyperplasia), so medical evaluation is needed for accurate diagnosis.
Causes & Risk Factors
The exact cause of prostate cancer is unknown, but several factors increase the likelihood of developing it:
- Age: Risk rises with age, especially after 50.
- Family History: A father or brother with prostate cancer increases your risk.
- Genetics: Certain gene mutations (e.g., BRCA1/BRCA2) can raise risk.
- Ethnicity: Higher incidence and more aggressive disease observed in African-American men.
- Diet & Lifestyle: Diets high in red meat and saturated fat, obesity, and low physical activity may contribute.
- Hormonal Factors: Androgens (male hormones) can promote prostate cancer growth.
Treatment Options for Prostate Cancer
Treatment is tailored to the cancer’s stage, grade, the patient’s general health, and personal preferences. Options include:
1. Active Surveillance / Watchful Waiting
- Appropriate for low-risk, slow-growing cancers.
- Involves regular monitoring with PSA tests, exams, and imaging.
- Treatment is started only if the cancer shows signs of progression.
2. Surgery (Radical Prostatectomy)
- Complete removal of the prostate and nearby tissue.
- Performed via open, laparoscopic, or robotic-assisted approaches.
- Often recommended for localized disease in fit patients.
3. Radiation Therapy
- External beam radiation or brachytherapy (internal radioactive seeds).
- Used for localized or locally advanced prostate cancer, sometimes combined with hormone therapy.
4. Hormone Therapy (Androgen Deprivation Therapy)
- Reduces or blocks male hormones (androgens) that fuel prostate cancer growth.
- Often used for advanced disease or together with radiation.
5. Chemotherapy
- Used for aggressive or metastatic prostate cancer, especially when hormone therapy is no longer effective.
6. Immunotherapy & Targeted Therapy
- Newer treatments that stimulate the immune system or target specific genetic changes in cancer cells.
- Considered for select advanced cases based on tumor characteristics.
Prevention & Risk Reduction
Prostate cancer cannot always be prevented, but these measures may lower risk:
- Maintain a healthy weight and stay physically active.
- Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains; limit red and processed meats.
- Discuss screening (PSA test and DRE) with your doctor, especially if over 50 or at higher risk.
- Quit smoking and limit alcohol intake to improve overall health.