Prostate cancer is a malignant disease of the male prostate—a small, walnut-shaped gland that produces seminal fluid, which serves as a nutrient source and transport medium for sperm.
Prostate cancer is one of the most common types of cancer in men. It usually grows slowly and initially remains confined to the prostate gland, where it causes little to no harm at first. While some types of prostate cancer develop slowly and require little to no treatment, others are more aggressive and can progress rapidly.
When detected at an early stage—while still confined to the prostate—prostate cancer has the highest chance of being cured.
Symptoms
Early-stage prostate cancer almost never causes symptoms—there are no early warning signs.
In more advanced stages, signs and symptoms may occur, although they are often non-specific, such as:
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Painful urination
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Difficulty urinating due to a weak urine stream
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Blood in the semen
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Pain in the pelvic area
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Bone pain
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Erectile problems
When to See a Doctor?
Make an appointment with your doctor as soon as you notice any signs or symptoms that concern you.
The benefits and risks of prostate cancer screening are still being debated, and expert opinions vary. Discuss your options with a trusted physician. Together, you can decide what is best for you.