Prostate cancer is fairly common, occuring in approximately one out of every six men. The most common cancer in males besides skin cancer, it is
diagnosed most often in older men. In fact, the main risk factor for prostate cancer is being over 50 years of age.
Because many men have regular checkups and prostate cancer tends to grow very slowly, about 7 out of 10 prostate cancers are found in the early stages. The five-year survival rate is almost 100 percent.
As men age, the prostate may get bigger and block the urethra or bladder. This may cause difficulty in urination or can interfere with sexual function. The condition is called benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), and although it is not cancer, treatments are available to improve symptoms. The symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia or of other problems in the prostate may be similar to symptoms of prostate cancer, so accurate diagnosis by a physician is vital.
Symptoms & Risk Factors
The following symptoms may be caused by prostate cancer. Check with your physician if you experience any of the following:
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Weak or interrupted flow of urine
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Frequent urination (especially at night)
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Trouble urinating
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Pain or burning during urination
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Blood in the urine or semen
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A pain in the back, hips, or pelvis that doesn't go away
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Painful ejaculation
The main risk factor for prostate cancer is being older than 50. More than half of new prostate cancers are found in men over 65. Additional risk factors include a family history of prostate cancer, especially if relatives were diagnosed before age 55.
Diagnosing Prostate Cancer
In addition to taking a thorough history and performing a physical examination, your doctor will perform one or more of the following tests to diagnose prostate cancer:
- A digital rectal exam, in which the doctor inserts a gloved finger into your rectum to feel your prostate gland
- A PSA to measure the levels of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) in your blood. A higher level of PSA may be a sign of an enlargement, infection, or cancer of the prostate
If either the PSA or rectal exam results are abnormal, your doctor may recommend additional tests such as transrectal ultrasound (TRUS)-guided prostate biopsy.
Treatment Options
At UCSD Medical Center, you and our skilled team of radiation oncologists, urologic surgeons and medical oncologists will collaborate to choose the treatment that is best suited for your case. Read more about:
Because prostate cancer tends to grow very slowly, treatment may also consist of simple observation, also known as "watchful waiting," without surgery or radiation. You can ask your physician whether this treatment is appropriate for you.