In fact, according to the Cancer Treatment Centers of America (CTCA), prostate cancer can be accompanied by a variety of urinary symptoms, especially in the early stages. The organization says that depending on its size and location, a tumor can “press and compress the urethra, obstructing the flow of urine”. If you think you may be at risk for prostate cancer or are experiencing any symptoms, see your doctor.
Cancer Research UK explains: “Prostate cancer does not usually cause any symptoms. Most prostate cancers begin in the outer part of the prostate gland.
“This means that in order to cause symptoms the cancer must be large enough to press on the tube that exits your body from your bladder and this is very unusual. This tube is called the urethra.”
The CTCA states that the prostate is a small gland in the male reproductive system.
It added: “It is essential in the production of the fluid that enriches the semen, but it can cause problems as men age.”
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The CTCA says that people may also experience:
- blood in semen
- impotence
- painful ejaculation
It notes that people with advanced prostate cancer may experience additional symptoms, as the cancer has spread from the prostate to other parts of the body, such as the bones or lymph nodes.
In these instances, signs may include swelling in the legs or pelvic area, numbness or pain in the hips, legs, or feet, or bone pain that persists or leads to fracture.
Prostate Cancer UK says that most men with early prostate cancer do not have any signs or symptoms, but there are some things that could mean that you are more likely to get prostate cancer.
Indeed, the charity says: “If you’re over 50 (or over 45 if you have a family history of prostate cancer or are a black man), you may want to talk to your GP, even if you have any symptoms.” No. These are all things that can increase your risk of prostate cancer.”
Prostate cancer is rare in men under the age of 40, but the chances of getting prostate cancer increase sharply after the age of 50.
Having a father or brother with prostate cancer more than doubles the risk of developing the disease.
The American Cancer Society states that a risk factor is one that increases your risk of getting a disease such as cancer, but having one risk factor, or even several, does not mean that you will get the disease.
Prostate Cancer UK states that some prostate cancers grow too slowly to cause any problems or affect how long you live.
Because of this, many men with prostate cancer will never need any treatment. However, some prostate cancers grow rapidly and are more likely to spread.
Cancer Research UK says there is no national screening program for prostate cancer because we do not have a reliable enough test to use.
