Understanding the prostate gland
The prostate is a chestnut-shaped gland found only in men, located near the urethra, and responsible for producing seminal fluid. Prostate cancer occurs when cells within the prostate grow abnormally, forming a malignant tumor. As the tumor grows, it can obstruct the urethra. In advanced stages, prostate cancer can spread through the bloodstream or lymphatic system to other parts of the body — most commonly the bones — leading to significant disability.
Prostate cancer symptoms
In its earliest stages, prostate cancer often causes no noticeable symptoms. As the tumor grows, urinary symptoms may develop that resemble those of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Consult a doctor if you experience any of the following:
- Dull or aching pain in the lower pelvis
- Pain in the lower back, hips, or upper thighs, which may indicate the cancer has spread to the bones
- Frequent urination
- Weak urine stream
- Urinary incontinence
- Difficulty urinating
- Blood in the urine
- Pain during ejaculation or blood in the semen
- Loss of appetite
- Unexplained weight loss
Risk factors and causes
The exact cause of prostate cancer remains unknown, but several factors are associated with increased risk:
- Age — risk increases with age. According to the National Cancer Institute, prostate cancer is most commonly diagnosed in men over 50.
- Family history — having a father, brother, or other male relative with prostate cancer increases risk. A family history of breast or ovarian cancer in female relatives may also raise the risk of prostate cancer.
- Obesity — research on the link between obesity and prostate cancer remains inconclusive, but patients with obesity tend to experience more severe disease and a higher likelihood of progression compared to those at a healthy weight.
- Race — evidence on racial risk factors is not entirely clear, but data from the American Cancer Society shows that approximately 1 in 6 African American men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer during their lifetime. This elevated risk may also extend to men with African American fathers or ancestry.
Reference,
Mayo Clinic. (2022). Prostate cancer: Symptoms & causes. Retrieved November 22, 2023, from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/prostate-cancer/symptoms-causes/syc-20353087
Cleveland Clinic. (2023). Prostate cancer. Retrieved November 22, 2023, from https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/8634-prostate-cancer
