Prostate Cancer Symptoms In Men: it is imperative to understand prostate cancer to avoid it and diagnose it early, which can greatly improve results and save lives. Being aware of the symptoms, screening methods, and risk factors for prostate cancer is crucial for proactive health management as it is one of the most common diseases in males.

More importantly, being aware of risk variables including age, race, family history, and lifestyle choices can help you determine your level of risk and take precautions. You can reduce your risk of getting the condition, for example, by eating a balanced diet, exercising frequently, and quitting smoking. Early symptoms, such as altered urination or pelvic pain, should be recognized in order to facilitate immediate medical consultations and maybe detect cancer at an earlier stage that is more amenable to treatment.

In a conversation with Jagran English, Dr. Mathisekaran Thangarasu, a consultant urologist at the Asian Institute of Nephrology and Urology in Chennai, emphasised the importance of understanding prostate cancer, including how it spreads and its various characteristics.

According to Dr. Mathisekaran, prostate cancer is prevalent among men, particularly as they age. Early detection is critical for effective treatment and improved outcomes. Although early prostate cancer often lacks specific warning signs, and many symptoms may resemble those of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), being aware of the signs can facilitate timely medical care, especially for elderly men and those with a family history of prostate cancer.

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Dr. Mathisekaran mentioned five early warning signs to keep in mind:

Frequent Urination:

One of the first indicators of prostate cancer can be an increased need to urinate, especially during the night. The prostate gland encircles the urethra, and as a tumor develops, it can exert pressure on the urethra, leading to urinary issues. Men might find themselves waking up multiple times at night to urinate, a condition known as nocturia. While this symptom is often attributed to normal aging, it should not be overlooked if it becomes more pronounced.

Trouble Starting Or Stopping Urination:

Another common early sign is difficulty initiating urination or experiencing a weak urine flow. Some men may notice a delay before urine begins to flow, or they might experience intermittent stopping and starting during urination. This can occur because the tumor causes a blockage in the urine flow. In some cases, men may also experience dribbling at the end of urination. Although these symptoms can be subtle and easy to dismiss, they may indicate an underlying problem with the prostate.

Blood In Urine Or Semen:

The presence of blood in the urine (hematuria) or semen (hematospermia) can be an alarming sign of prostate cancer. The blood may be visible to the naked eye, or it may only be detectable through microscopic examination. While blood in urine or semen can also result from other conditions, such as infections or benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), it should always be examined to rule out cancer.

Erectile Dysfunction:

Prostate cancer can impact sexual function, leading to difficulties in achieving or maintaining an erection. The nerves and blood vessels responsible for erections are located near the prostate gland, and if these are affected by a growing tumor, it can result in erectile dysfunction. While erectile dysfunction is common as men age, a sudden onset, particularly when combined with other urinary symptoms, could be an indication of prostate cancer.

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Pelvic Pain Or Discomfort:

Persistent discomfort or pain in the pelvic region, lower back, hips, or thighs can also be an early sign of prostate cancer. This pain is often related to the cancer spreading to nearby bones or tissues. Although this symptom usually appears in more advanced stages, it can sometimes occur earlier and should be evaluated further.

Dr. Mathisekaran concluded by stating that detecting prostate cancer early greatly enhances the chances of successful treatment. Men, particularly those over 50 or with a family history of the disease, should be attentive to these early signs and seek medical advice if they notice any of them. Regular screenings, such as PSA tests and digital rectal exams, are also crucial in identifying prostate cancer at an early stage.