Prostate cancer awareness month – signs and symptoms to watch out

September marks Prostate Cancer Awareness Month in the United Kingdom, a crucial time to shed light on the most common cancer among men. Prostate cancer can be a silent threat, as it often develops without noticeable symptoms in its early stages. However, being aware of the signs and symptoms can lead to early detection and potentially life-saving treatment. In this blog post, we will explore the key signs and symptoms of prostate cancer, emphasising the importance of regular screenings and awareness.

Understanding Prostate Cancer:

Prostate cancer is a type of cancer that develops in the prostate gland, a small, walnut-shaped organ located just below the bladder in men. The prostate gland produces seminal fluid, which nourishes and transports sperm. While prostate cancer can develop slowly and may not cause significant problems, it can also be aggressive and spread to other parts of the body.

Signs and Symptoms:

• Urinary Changes: One of the most common early signs of prostate cancer is urinary symptoms. These may include frequent urination, especially at night (nocturia), difficulty starting or stopping urination, weak urine flow, or a feeling of incomplete emptying of the bladder.
• Blood in Urine or Semen: Hematuria, which is blood in the urine, or blood in the semen (hematospermia), can be a warning sign of prostate cancer. If you notice any unusual discolouration in your urine or semen, consult a healthcare professional promptly.
• Erectile Dysfunction: While erectile dysfunction can have various causes, it can also be linked to prostate cancer, especially in advanced stages when the cancer has spread beyond the prostate.
• Pain or Discomfort: As prostate cancer progresses, it may cause pain or discomfort in the lower back, hips, or pelvis. This pain can be persistent and is typically a sign that the cancer has reached an advanced stage.
• Bone Pain: Advanced prostate cancer can metastasise to the bones, leading to bone pain, fractures, and an increased risk of bone-related complications.
• Unexplained Weight Loss: Significant and unexplained weight loss can be a symptom of advanced prostate cancer. If you are losing weight without trying, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional.
• Difficulty with Bowel Movements: In some cases, prostate cancer may affect the rectum, leading to bowel-related symptoms such as constipation, diarrhea, or rectal bleeding.

Early Detection and Screening:

Prostate cancer is highly treatable when detected in its early stages. Therefore, regular screenings are essential, especially for men aged 50 and older, or those with a family history of the disease. The two primary screening tests for prostate cancer are the prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test and a digital rectal examination (DRE).

• PSA Blood Test: This test measures the level of PSA in the blood. Elevated PSA levels can be a sign of prostate issues, including cancer. However, PSA levels can also be elevated for non-cancerous reasons, so further evaluation is needed.
• Digital Rectal Examination (DRE): During a DRE, a healthcare provider inserts a gloved, lubricated finger into the rectum to feel for any abnormalities in the prostate gland.

You can download a PDF file of the symptoms poster of prostate cancer here.