Prostate Cancer

The prostate is a small gland in the male body that produces seminal fluid to nourish and spread sperm. Prostate cancer is one of the most common types of cancer in men. The cancer usually grows at a slow pace and initially is confined within the prostate gland, where it may not result in significant harm. However, other types of prostate cancer can involve the cancer growing and spreading rapidly. If prostate cancer is detected early enough, there is a much higher chance of a successful treatment.

Prostate Cancer Symptoms

Prostate cancer can sometimes cause no signs or symptoms during its early stages. As the cancer grows and potentially spreads, the individual may experience:

• Difficulty urinating

• Lack of force in urine stream

• Blood within the semen

• Discomfort in the pelvic region

• Bone pain

• Erectile dysfunction

Diagnosis and Treatment

Some medical institutions believe that men in their 50s should be screened for prostate cancer and even sooner if they are at a higher risk of it. Some prostate screening tests include:

• Digital Rectal Exam (DRE): The DRE involves the doctor’s finger insertion into the rectum to examine the prostate for any abnormalities in the texture, shape and size of the prostate gland.

• Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) Test: Involves a blood sample that is taken from the vein in either arm and analyzed for PSA, which is a substance that is produced by the gland naturally. If the test indicates a high level of the PSA substance, that may be a sign of a prostate infection, enlargement or cancer.