Prostate cancer is the second most common cancer among men worldwide. It occurs in the prostate – a small gland below the bladder and in front of the rectum.

Prostate cancer usually grows slowly and can be detected during screening tests before symptoms appear. However, some men may experience symptoms that signal prostate cancer. In this article, we’ll discuss how to know if you have prostate cancer and what signs and symptoms to look out for.

Risk factors for prostate cancer

Prostate cancer risk factors include factors that cannot be changed, such as age, race or a family history of the disease, and factors that can be changed, such as diet and exercise habits.

Age

The risk of developing prostate cancer increases as men age. Prostate cancer is rare in men younger than 40, but the risk of developing the disease sharply increases after age 50.

Race

Prostate cancer is more common among African American men, and the disease is more likely to develop in African American men at a younger age.

Family history

If a close family member, such as a father or brother, has been diagnosed with prostate cancer, then the risk of developing the disease is higher.

Diet

A diet high in red meat or high-fat dairy products can increase the risk of developing prostate cancer. A diet low in fruits and vegetables may also play a role in the development of the disease.

Exercise

A lack of physical activity or exercise has been linked to an increased risk of developing prostate cancer.

Screening tests for prostate cancer

Prostate cancer screening tests include:.

Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test

The PSA test measures the level of PSA in the blood. PSA is a protein produced by the prostate gland. An elevated PSA level can be a sign of prostate cancer. However, other factors can also contribute to an elevated PSA level.

Therefore, a PSA test alone cannot confirm or rule out the presence of prostate cancer.

Digital rectal exam (DRE)

In a DRE, a healthcare professional inserts a gloved and lubricated finger into the rectum to feel the prostate gland for any abnormalities, such as lumps or hard spots.

The DRE can detect prostate cancer in the early stages when the tumor is still small and has not spread to other parts of the body.

Symptoms of prostate cancer

Men with prostate cancer may experience one or more of the following symptoms:.

Urinary problems

Prostate cancer can cause urinary problems such as the need to urinate more frequently, especially at night, difficulty starting or stopping urination, weak or interrupted urine flow, painful urination, or blood in the urine.

Erectile dysfunction (ED)

Erectile dysfunction is the inability to achieve or maintain an erection during sexual activity. Prostate cancer can cause ED in some men.

Bone pain

Prostate cancer can spread to the bones and cause bone pain, particularly in the hips, thighs, or lower back.

Loss of bladder or bowel control

Advanced prostate cancer can spread to the nerves that control bladder and bowel movements, leading to incontinence or bowel problems.

When to see a doctor

If you experience any of the symptoms associated with prostate cancer, it is important to see a doctor. However, these symptoms may also result from other conditions, such as an enlarged prostate or a bladder infection.

If you have a family history of prostate cancer or are at higher risk due to other factors, your doctor may recommend prostate cancer screening before you experience symptoms.

Conclusion

Prostate cancer is a significant health concern for many men.

Knowing the risk factors for the disease, the screening tests available, and the symptoms that can indicate prostate cancer can help men stay on top of their health and improve their chances for successful treatment of the disease.