To mark prostate cancer awareness month, we’ve pulled together some information about the disease that answers many of the questions we get asked most.
Prostate cancer is now the most commonly diagnosed cancer in England. About 1 in 8 men are diagnosed with prostate cancer each year, and the rate is 1 in 4 for black men.
Remember, if you think something might be wrong, always speak to your GP.
The prostate
Prostate cancer starts in the cells of the prostate. The prostate is a small gland found in men. It’s just below the bladder and in front of the rectum. The prostate produces a liquid that, along with sperm from the testicles, is part of what makes up semen.
Prostate cancer
In the UK, about 48,600 men are diagnosed with prostate cancer each year. Although prostate cancer is most common over the age of 65, it can happen at a younger age. There’s a higher risk that you’ll develop prostate cancer at a younger age if you have Afro-Caribbean heritage or have a family history of the illness.
A recent study also found that those with Afro-Caribbean descent are more likely to be diagnosed with prostate cancer when it’s in stage 3 or 4, when it’s much more difficult to treat. Click here to find out more.
Symptoms of prostate cancer
Prostate cancer symptoms only occur when the cancer is large enough to press on the tube that carries urine from the bladder. This means that early-stage prostate cancer often has no symptoms, making it hard to catch.
Because of this, the NHS offers a blood test that can be used to catch prostate cancer before symptoms develop. Click here to read our guide to PSA testing.
The symptoms of prostate cancer include:
- Needing to wee more often than usual, especially at night
- Having difficulty weeing, for example a weak flow or having to really strain
- Getting sudden, urgent needs to wee
- Blood in the urine or semen
- Pain when weeing or ejaculating
If you have any of these symptoms, it’s important to have them checked by your doctor. Similarly, if you notice any change to your waterworks that concerns you, speak to your GP.
When prostate cancer spreads, it usually goes to the bones. This may cause pain, such as back pain.
Diagnosis of prostate cancer
If you have symptoms that could be caused by prostate cancer, you should visit a GP.
There’s no single, definitive test for prostate cancer. Your GP will discuss the pros and cons of the various tests with you to try and avoid any unnecessary anxiety.
Your GP will assess your risk of having prostate cancer based on several factors. If your GP thinks you may have prostate cancer, they will refer you to hospital for further tests such as an MRI scan and/or a biopsy.
If you or someone you know is affected by prostate, testicular or penile cancer, our free patient and family support groups across Devon and Cornwall offer a space to connect with others who understand what you’re going through.
