Early Warning Signs of Prostate Problems: What You Need to Know

Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men after skin cancer, so it's important to understand the basics of the disease, as well as risk factors. The prostate is a small, walnut-shaped gland in men that produces seminal fluid that nourishes and transports sperm. It is located just below the bladder and surrounds the top of the tube that drains urine from the bladder (urethra). Cancer researchers have identified several factors that could increase a man's risk of developing prostate cancer.

These include age, family history, race, and lifestyle factors such as smoking and obesity. In addition, some evidence indicates that people taking certain medications may have a higher risk of developing a more serious form of prostate cancer (high-grade prostate cancer). As a result, routine screening tests in the form of digital rectal exams (DRE) and prostate specific androgen (PSA) tests are vital.Prostate cancer may not cause signs or symptoms in its early stages. However, some possible early signs of prostate cancer include unusually weak urine flow and unexplained pain around the prostate while sitting.

If you have any of these warning signs, it doesn't necessarily mean you have cancer, and at the same time, you may be diagnosed with prostate cancer without any of the signs. Make an appointment with your doctor if you have persistent signs or symptoms that concern you.The good news is that prostate cancer can be cured, especially when identified and treated early. In some cases, it may be beneficial to block that hormone with androgen deprivation therapy (ADT), which can delay the cancer or even cause it to go into remission. With external beam radiation, high-energy beams that emit photons attack and destroy abnormal prostate cells outside the body.If you have one or more of the warning signs of prostate cancer, you may want to see a qualified doctor immediately.

Because of the prostate's proximity to the urethra and reproductive organs, prostate cancer can cause symptoms that affect urination and sexual activity. These include weak and interrupted urine flow, unusual pain around the prostate when sitting, swelling in the lower back, feet and legs, abnormal bowel function or urination habits, and weight loss.