This page is general health information, not a diagnosis. Always consult a licensed clinician about your own health.
Overview
Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers in men, and men of African descent face higher risk at younger ages. Early prostate cancer typically causes no symptoms at all — which is why men over 45 should discuss PSA blood-test screening with a doctor rather than waiting for urinary problems. Caught early, it is very treatable.
Symptoms
Often none in early stages
Weak urine stream or straining
Frequent urination, especially at night
Blood in urine or semen
Painful ejaculation
Bone pain in the back or hips (advanced disease)
Unexplained weight loss (advanced)
Causes & risk factors
Increasing age, especially over 50 (over 45 for African men)
African ancestry
Family history of prostate cancer
Diets heavy in red and processed meat may contribute
Treatment & self-care
Assessment combines a PSA blood test, examination and, where indicated, scans and biopsy. Treatment depends on age and stage — options range from active monitoring of slow-growing disease to surgery, radiotherapy and hormone therapy, decided with a specialist. Men over 45 — especially those of African descent — should discuss screening with a doctor; bothersome urinary symptoms always deserve assessment.
See a doctor urgently if
Over 45 and never discussed prostate screening
Blood in urine or semen
New bone pain in the back or hips with urinary symptoms
A strong family history of prostate cancer
Frequently asked questions
What are the first signs of Prostate Cancer?
Early signs often include often none in early stages, weak urine stream or straining, frequent urination, especially at night. Symptoms vary from person to person, so a proper assessment by a doctor is the only way to be sure.
Can Prostate Cancer be treated?
Assessment combines a PSA blood test, examination and, where indicated, scans and biopsy. Treatment depends on age and stage — options range from active monitoring of slow-growing disease to surgery, radiotherapy and hormone therapy, decided with a specialist. Men over 45 — especially those of African descent — should discuss screening with a doctor; bothersome urinary symptoms always deserve assessment.
When should I see a doctor about Prostate Cancer?
See a doctor promptly if you notice: over 45 and never discussed prostate screening; blood in urine or semen; new bone pain in the back or hips with urinary symptoms; a strong family history of prostate cancer.