Prostate cancer is a type of cancer that develops in the prostate, a gland located in the male reproductive system.

According to the American Cancer Society, it is the second most common cancer among men, with over 190,000 new cases diagnosed every year in the United States alone.

Early detection and treatment are crucial in the fight against prostate cancer, but unfortunately, many men ignore the warning signs or don’t take their symptoms seriously.

In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the most important warning signs of prostate cancer that you shouldn’t ignore.

1. Frequent Urination and Urgency

If you find yourself needing to go to the bathroom frequently, especially at night, this could be a sign of prostate cancer.

As the cancer grows, it can put pressure on the urethra, which makes it harder for urine to flow and can cause you to feel like you need to go more often. You may also feel a sense of urgency, even if you’ve just gone to the bathroom.

2. Pain or Discomfort When Urinating

If you experience pain or discomfort when you urinate, this could be a sign of an infection or inflammation in your prostate. However, it could also be a sign of prostate cancer.

If you notice any pain or burning when you urinate, make an appointment to see your doctor as soon as possible.

3. Blood in the Urine or Semen

Seeing blood in your urine or semen can be a scary and unsettling experience. While there are many possible causes, including infection or injury, it’s important to get checked out by your doctor to rule out prostate cancer.

In some cases, the blood may not be visible to the naked eye, but can be detected through a urine or semen test.

4. Erectile Dysfunction

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a common problem among men, especially as they age. However, if you notice a sudden or persistent problem with getting or maintaining an erection, this could be a sign of prostate cancer.

The cancer can damage the nerves and blood vessels that are necessary for an erection, making ED a possible warning sign.

5. Pain or Stiffness in the Back, Hips, or Pelvis

Prostate cancer that has spread beyond the prostate gland can cause pain or stiffness in the back, hips, or pelvis. This is because the cancer can affect the bones and soft tissues in these areas.

If you have unexplained pain in these areas, especially if it is accompanied by any of the other warning signs on this list, be sure to talk to your doctor.

6. Weakness or Numbness in the Legs or Feet

If prostate cancer has spread to the spinal cord, it can cause weakness or numbness in the legs or feet. This is because the cancer can put pressure on the nerves that control these areas of the body.

If you experience any weakness, numbness, or tingling in your legs or feet, let your doctor know right away.

7. Loss of Bladder or Bowel Control

If you suddenly find yourself unable to control your bladder or bowel movements, this could be a sign of prostate cancer that has spread to the spinal cord or nerves that control these functions.

This is a serious symptom that requires immediate medical attention.

8. Unexplained Weight Loss

Unexplained weight loss can be a sign of many different health problems, including cancer. If you have lost a significant amount of weight without trying, be sure to talk to your doctor about possible underlying causes, including prostate cancer.

While weight loss alone is not a definitive warning sign, it can be one of many possible symptoms to watch for.

9. Fatigue or Weakness

Feeling tired or weak all the time is a common symptom of many different health problems, but it can also be a sign of prostate cancer.

If you feel excessively tired or weak, even after getting enough rest, and you have noticed any of the other warning signs on this list, be sure to talk to your doctor.

10. Difficulty Breathing or Swallowing

If prostate cancer has spread to the lungs or other parts of the body, it can cause difficulty breathing or swallowing. This is a serious symptom that requires medical attention right away.

These are just some of the most important warning signs of prostate cancer that you shouldn’t ignore.

Remember, early detection and treatment are crucial in the fight against this disease, so if you notice any changes or symptoms that concern you, don’t hesitate to talk to your doctor.