Prostate cancer is the second most common cancer among men, next to skin cancer. It is estimated that one in nine men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in their lifetime.

Unfortunately, prostate cancer often goes undetected until it has spread beyond the prostate gland. This is because early stage prostate cancer often does not cause any noticeable symptoms.

What is the Prostate?

The prostate is a small gland located below the bladder and in front of the rectum. It is responsible for producing seminal fluid, which helps to nourish and transport sperm.

The prostate gland is about the size of a walnut and is part of the male reproductive system.

What are the Symptoms of Prostate Cancer?

While early stage prostate cancer usually does not produce symptoms, as the cancer grows and spreads, it can start to cause noticeable changes in the body. Some of the symptoms of prostate cancer can include:.

Difficulty urinating
Weak or interrupted urine flow
Frequent urination, especially at night
Blood in the urine or semen
Pain or discomfort in the pelvic area, lower back, or upper thighs
Erectile dysfunction
Unexplained weight loss

Why Do Men Ignore Prostate Cancer Symptoms?

There are a number of reasons why men may ignore symptoms of prostate cancer. Some men may be embarrassed or afraid to talk about symptoms related to their reproductive system.

Others may assume that the symptoms are just a natural part of aging and not a cause for concern. However, it is important to keep in mind that any unexplained changes in the body should be evaluated by a medical professional, as they could be a sign of a serious health condition.

Prostate Cancer Screening

Prostate cancer screening involves testing for the presence of prostate cancer in men who do not have any symptoms of the disease.

The two main tests used for prostate cancer screening are the prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test and the digital rectal exam (DRE).

The PSA test measures the level of a protein produced by the prostate gland in the blood. Elevated PSA levels can be a sign of prostate cancer or other prostate conditions, but not all men with high PSA levels have prostate cancer.

The DRE involves a doctor or nurse inserting a gloved, lubricated finger into the rectum to feel for any lumps or abnormalities in the prostate gland.

The American Cancer Society recommends that men have the opportunity to make an informed decision about getting screened for prostate cancer starting at age 50.

Men at higher risk for prostate cancer, such as African American men and men with a family history of the disease, may want to consider screening at an earlier age.

Treatment Options for Prostate Cancer

Treatment for prostate cancer depends on a number of factors, including the stage and grade of the cancer, the man’s overall health, and the man’s personal preferences. Some of the common treatment options for prostate cancer include:.

Active surveillance (monitoring the cancer with regular checkups instead of treating it right away)
Surgery to remove the prostate gland
Radiation therapy
Hormone therapy, which involves lowering the levels of hormones that fuel the growth of prostate cancer cells
Chemotherapy

Prevention Tips for Prostate Cancer

While there is no guaranteed way to prevent prostate cancer, there are some steps men can take to reduce their risk of developing the disease:.

Eat a healthy diet that is low in fat and high in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
Exercise regularly
Maintain a healthy weight
Avoid smoking and limit alcohol intake
Discuss prostate cancer screening with a healthcare provider and follow recommended guidelines

Conclusion

Prostate cancer is a common cancer among men, yet it often goes undetected until it has spread beyond the prostate gland.

Men should be aware of the symptoms of prostate cancer and seek medical attention if they notice any changes in their urinary or reproductive function. With regular prostate cancer screenings and a healthy lifestyle, men can take steps to reduce their risk of developing prostate cancer.