Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers affecting men. It develops when cells in the prostate gland begin to grow abnormally and multiply uncontrollably.
The prostate is a small gland located below the bladder and in front of the rectum. It plays an important role in the male reproductive system by producing fluid that forms part of semen.
Prostate cancer often develops slowly and may not cause noticeable symptoms during its early stages. However, some types can grow more aggressively and spread to other parts of the body.
Understanding the possible warning signs, risk factors, and available diagnostic tests can help men make informed decisions about their health.
In this guide, we explain what prostate cancer is, its possible symptoms, causes, risk factors, stages, diagnosis, and treatment options.
What Is Prostate Cancer?
Prostate cancer occurs when abnormal cells develop in the prostate gland and begin multiplying uncontrollably.
The prostate is approximately the size of a walnut in many younger adults, although it often becomes larger with age.
It is located just below the bladder and surrounds part of the urethra, the tube that carries urine out of the body.
Its main functions include:
Producing fluid that forms part of semen.
Supporting sperm movement and function.
Contributing to the male reproductive process.
When cancer develops in the prostate, its growth rate can vary.
Some prostate cancers grow very slowly and may never cause serious health problems. Others can grow more quickly and spread beyond the prostate.
The seriousness of the disease depends on factors such as the cancer's grade, stage, growth pattern, and whether it has spread.
What Are the Different Types of Prostate Cancer?
Most prostate cancers are adenocarcinomas, which develop from glandular cells that produce prostate fluid.
Other, less common types include:
1. Acinar Adenocarcinoma
Acinar adenocarcinoma is the most common type of prostate cancer.
It develops in the glandular cells of the prostate and accounts for the vast majority of prostate cancer cases.
Its behaviour varies. Some tumours grow slowly, while others may be more aggressive.
2. Ductal Adenocarcinoma
Ductal adenocarcinoma is a less common type that develops in cells lining the ducts of the prostate gland.
It may behave more aggressively than typical acinar adenocarcinoma in some patients.
3. Small Cell Prostate Cancer
Small cell prostate cancer is a rare and aggressive form of prostate cancer.
It is a type of neuroendocrine cancer that may grow and spread quickly.
4. Other Rare Types
Other uncommon prostate malignancies include certain neuroendocrine tumours, squamous cell carcinomas, and sarcomas.
These cancers are rare and may require different diagnostic and treatment approaches.
10 Possible Warning Signs of Prostate Cancer
One important fact about prostate cancer is that early-stage disease often causes no noticeable symptoms.
Symptoms may develop as the cancer grows or affects nearby structures. Some warning signs can also occur with non-cancerous prostate conditions, including benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and prostatitis.
The following are possible symptoms that should be medically assessed.
1. Difficulty Starting Urination
Some men experience difficulty beginning to urinate.
They may need to wait, strain, or make an extra effort before urine starts flowing.
This can happen when the prostate or another condition affects the passage of urine through the urethra.
2. Weak or Interrupted Urine Flow
A weak urine stream may occur when the urethra becomes narrowed or compressed.
Some men may notice that their urine flow starts and stops repeatedly or takes longer than usual to empty the bladder.
Although this can occur with prostate cancer, an enlarged prostate is a much more common non-cancerous explanation.
3. Frequent Urination, Especially at Night
Needing to urinate more frequently than usual can be another possible symptom.
Some men may wake up several times during the night to pass urine.
This symptom is also common with an enlarged prostate, urinary tract conditions, diabetes, and other health problems.
4. Difficulty Emptying the Bladder Completely
Some men may feel that their bladder has not emptied fully after urinating.
They may experience repeated urges to urinate shortly after using the toilet.
Persistent difficulty emptying the bladder should be assessed by a healthcare professional.
5. Pain or Burning During Urination
Pain, discomfort, or a burning sensation while passing urine can occur in people with various urinary and prostate conditions.
Possible causes include urinary tract infections, prostatitis, and other problems.
Although it is not specific to prostate cancer, persistent or unexplained painful urination should not be ignored.
6. Blood in the Urine
Blood in the urine, known medically as haematuria, can sometimes occur in people with prostate cancer.
The urine may appear pink, red, or brown. In some cases, blood may only be detected through laboratory testing.
Blood in the urine can also result from infections, kidney stones, or other urinary conditions.
It should always be medically assessed, even if it happens only once.
7. Blood in Semen
Blood in semen is known as haematospermia.
It may cause semen to appear pink, red, or brownish.
Although prostate cancer is one possible cause, blood in semen is more commonly associated with inflammation, infection, or other non-cancerous conditions.
Persistent or recurrent symptoms should be discussed with a healthcare professional.
8. Erectile Dysfunction
Some men may experience difficulty getting or maintaining an erection.
Erectile dysfunction can have many possible causes, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, hormonal changes, medication effects, and psychological factors.
It can also occur in some men with prostate cancer, particularly in connection with the disease or its treatment.
However, erectile dysfunction alone does not mean someone has prostate cancer.
9. Persistent Pain in the Lower Back, Hips, or Pelvis
Prostate cancer that has spread beyond the prostate may affect nearby tissues or bones.
Some people experience persistent pain in areas such as:
Lower back
Hips
Pelvis
Upper thighs
Bone pain can occur when prostate cancer spreads to the bones.
However, back and hip pain are common symptoms with many possible causes. Persistent or unexplained pain should be evaluated rather than automatically attributed to cancer.
10. Unexplained Weight Loss and Fatigue
Some men with advanced prostate cancer may experience unintended weight loss and persistent tiredness.
These symptoms can develop when cancer affects the body's normal functions or spreads to other areas.
Unexplained weight loss and ongoing fatigue can also result from many other medical conditions and require proper assessment.
Important: These are possible symptoms associated with prostate cancer, not a reliable checklist for detecting early disease. Many men with early prostate cancer have no symptoms at all.
Can Prostate Cancer Develop Without Symptoms?
Yes. Prostate cancer frequently develops without noticeable symptoms during its early stages.
This happens partly because many prostate cancers begin in the outer portion of the prostate gland. They may not press against the urethra or interfere with urination when they are still small.
As a result, a person may have prostate cancer without experiencing urinary difficulties, pain, or other obvious changes.
Some prostate cancers are discovered through investigations such as a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test or further examinations performed for other reasons.
However, PSA testing has both potential benefits and risks. It can produce abnormal results in people who do not have cancer and may lead to additional tests or treatment for slow-growing cancers that would never have caused harm.
Men considering prostate cancer screening should discuss their age, family history, personal risk factors, and the potential benefits and harms of testing with a healthcare professional.
When Should You See a Doctor?
Arrange a medical appointment if you experience:
Persistent difficulty passing urine.
A weak or interrupted urine stream.
Frequent urination, especially at night.
Blood in your urine or semen.
Persistent pain in your back, hips, or pelvis.
Unexplained weight loss.
Ongoing urinary or sexual health changes.
These symptoms do not automatically mean prostate cancer is present. Several non-cancerous conditions can cause similar problems.
Seek emergency medical attention if you suddenly become unable to pass urine, develop severe pain, or experience new leg weakness, numbness around the groin, or loss of bladder or bowel control. These symptoms may indicate a serious condition requiring urgent assessment.
Early medical evaluation can help identify the cause and determine whether further testing is needed.
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What Causes Prostate Cancer?
Prostate cancer develops when cells in the prostate gland acquire changes that cause them to grow and multiply abnormally.
Normally, healthy cells grow, divide, and die in a controlled way. However, changes in the genetic material of prostate cells can interfere with this process.
As a result, abnormal cells may continue multiplying and form a tumour.
The exact cause of prostate cancer is not fully understood. Researchers believe that a combination of ageing, inherited genetic factors, hormonal influences, and environmental factors may contribute to its development.
1. Genetic Changes in Prostate Cells
Changes in DNA can affect the way prostate cells grow and divide.
Some genetic changes develop during a person's lifetime, while others may be inherited from parents.
These changes can affect genes responsible for controlling cell growth, repairing damaged DNA, and preventing abnormal cells from multiplying.
Not every genetic change leads to cancer, but certain combinations can increase the risk.
2. Age-Related Changes
Age is one of the strongest known risk factors for prostate cancer.
The likelihood of developing prostate cancer increases as men get older.
Although prostate cancer can occur in younger men, it is much more commonly diagnosed in men aged 50 and above.
Age-related biological changes may contribute to the development of abnormal cells over time.
3. Family History
Having a close relative with prostate cancer can increase a man's risk.
Risk may be higher when:
A father or brother has been diagnosed with prostate cancer.
More than one close relative has had the disease.
A family member developed prostate cancer at a younger age.
Several relatives have been diagnosed with related cancers.
A strong family history may indicate inherited genetic susceptibility.
Men with a significant family history should discuss their individual risk and screening options with a healthcare professional.
4. Inherited Genetic Mutations
Certain inherited genetic changes can increase the risk of developing prostate cancer.
Important examples include:
BRCA1: Changes in this gene can increase the risk of several cancers, including prostate cancer.
BRCA2: Inherited BRCA2 mutations are associated with a higher risk of prostate cancer and may be linked to more aggressive disease.
HOXB13: Certain inherited changes in this gene are associated with an increased risk of prostate cancer, particularly in some families with early-onset disease.
DNA repair genes: Changes in genes such as ATM and mismatch repair genes may also be associated with prostate cancer risk.
Genetic counselling and testing may be considered for men with a strong family history or other relevant risk factors.
5. Hormonal Factors
Hormones called androgens, including testosterone, play an important role in the growth and function of the prostate gland.
Prostate cancer cells often use androgen signalling to support their growth.
This is why certain prostate cancer treatments work by reducing androgen levels or blocking their effects.
However, the exact relationship between natural hormone levels and the development of prostate cancer is complex and remains an area of research.
6. Obesity and Metabolic Health
Obesity has been associated with an increased risk of certain aggressive forms of prostate cancer and worse outcomes.
However, the relationship between body weight and prostate cancer is complex.
Researchers continue to investigate how metabolic health, inflammation, hormones, and other biological factors may influence disease development.
Maintaining a healthy weight supports overall health, even though it cannot guarantee prevention of prostate cancer.
7. Race and Ethnic Background
Prostate cancer risk differs among populations.
In the United States, Black men have a higher incidence of prostate cancer and are more likely to develop aggressive disease and die from it compared with men from several other racial groups.
The reasons are complex and may involve genetic, healthcare access, socioeconomic, and environmental factors.
Men with higher-risk backgrounds should discuss personalised screening decisions with their healthcare professionals.
8. Diet and Lifestyle Factors
Researchers have studied whether certain dietary patterns and lifestyle habits influence prostate cancer risk.
However, there is no single food or dietary pattern proven to prevent prostate cancer.
A balanced eating pattern that includes vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and appropriate protein sources supports general health.
Avoid relying on supplements or restrictive diets as a way to prevent or treat prostate cancer.
9. Smoking
Smoking is associated with several harmful health effects and may be linked to a higher risk of aggressive prostate cancer and poorer outcomes.
Quitting smoking can improve overall health and reduce the risk of many other cancers and cardiovascular diseases.
10. Other Possible Risk Factors
Researchers continue to investigate additional factors that may influence prostate cancer risk.
These include:
Certain occupational and environmental exposures.
Chronic inflammation.
Metabolic conditions.
Differences in inherited genetic susceptibility.
Not all suspected risk factors have been established as direct causes of prostate cancer.
Who Is at Higher Risk of Prostate Cancer?
Some men have a greater likelihood of developing prostate cancer than others.
Important risk factors include:
1. Men Aged 50 and Above
Prostate cancer becomes more common with increasing age.
Men aged 50 and above should discuss prostate cancer risk and whether screening is appropriate for them.
2. Men with a Family History
Men whose father, brother, or multiple close relatives have had prostate cancer may have an increased risk.
The risk may be particularly important when relatives were diagnosed at a younger age.
3. Men with Inherited Genetic Mutations
Men with certain inherited mutations, particularly BRCA2, BRCA1, and HOXB13, may have a higher risk.
Genetic counselling can help determine whether testing is appropriate.
4. Black Men
Black men, particularly those of African ancestry, experience a higher incidence of prostate cancer and a greater burden of aggressive disease in the United States.
Earlier conversations about screening may be appropriate depending on individual risk.
5. Men with Multiple Risk Factors
Some men have several risk factors, such as older age, a strong family history, and inherited genetic mutations.
A personalised discussion with a healthcare professional can help determine appropriate screening and follow-up.
What Are the Stages of Prostate Cancer?
Prostate cancer staging describes how far the cancer has grown and whether it has spread beyond the prostate gland.
Healthcare professionals use staging information to understand the extent of the disease and plan appropriate treatment.
The main stages are Stage I, Stage II, Stage III, and Stage IV.
Stage I – Early Prostate Cancer
Stage I prostate cancer is generally confined to the prostate and is often small and slow-growing.
It may not cause noticeable symptoms.
Some cancers at this stage are detected through PSA testing or investigations performed for other reasons.
Depending on the cancer's grade, PSA level, and other findings, treatment may involve active surveillance or other approaches.
Stage II – Cancer Still Within the Prostate
At Stage II, cancer remains within the prostate but may be more extensive or have a higher grade than Stage I.
The tumour may be detectable through examinations or imaging.
Stage II is divided into substages:
Stage IIA: Generally involves cancer with a relatively lower grade or other defined features.
Stage IIB: Includes cancers with different combinations of PSA levels, tumour grade, and involvement within the prostate.
Stage IIC: Generally includes cancers with higher-grade features that remain confined to the prostate.
Treatment depends on the cancer's risk category and the patient's overall health.
Stage III – Locally Advanced Prostate Cancer
Stage III prostate cancer may have grown beyond the prostate gland or developed features associated with a higher risk of progression.
It may involve nearby structures, such as the seminal vesicles, depending on the substage.
Stage III is commonly divided into:
Stage IIIA: May involve a higher PSA level while the cancer remains confined to the prostate.
Stage IIIB: Cancer has extended beyond the prostate and may involve nearby tissues, including the seminal vesicles.
Stage IIIC: Includes cancers with very high-grade features, even when they have not spread to distant organs.
Treatment may involve a combination of radiotherapy, hormone therapy, surgery in selected cases, or other approaches.
Stage IV – Advanced Prostate Cancer
Stage IV prostate cancer has spread beyond the local prostate region.
It is divided into two main categories:
Stage IVA:
Cancer may have spread to nearby regional lymph nodes but has not spread to distant organs.
Stage IVB:
Cancer has spread to distant parts of the body, such as bones or distant lymph nodes.
Bone is one of the most common sites of distant prostate cancer spread.
Advanced prostate cancer may require systemic treatment, such as hormone therapy, chemotherapy, targeted medicines, or other specialist treatments.
What Is the Gleason Score?
The Gleason score is an important grading system used to assess how abnormal prostate cancer cells look under a microscope.
A pathologist examines prostate tissue samples obtained during a biopsy and identifies the two most common patterns of cancer growth.
Each pattern is assigned a grade, and the two grades are added together to produce the Gleason score.
For example:
Gleason score 6 (3+3)
Gleason score 7 (3+4)
Gleason score 7 (4+3)
Gleason score 8 (4+4)
Gleason score 9 or 10
In general, higher Gleason scores indicate cancer cells that look more abnormal and are more likely to behave aggressively.
A Gleason score of 7 can have different implications depending on whether it is 3+4 or 4+3. The order of the numbers matters.
What Are Grade Groups in Prostate Cancer?
Grade Groups provide another way of describing how aggressive prostate cancer may be.
They are based on the Gleason score and help healthcare professionals communicate cancer grade.
| Grade Group | Gleason Score | General Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Grade Group 1 | 6 or lower | Lower-grade cancer |
| Grade Group 2 | 3+4=7 | Intermediate-grade cancer |
| Grade Group 3 | 4+3=7 | Higher-risk intermediate-grade cancer |
| Grade Group 4 | 8 | High-grade cancer |
| Grade Group 5 | 9–10 | Highest-grade cancer |
The Grade Group is only one part of the overall assessment. PSA level, cancer stage, biopsy findings, imaging results, and individual health factors also influence treatment decisions.
Can Prostate Cancer Spread to Other Parts of the Body?
Yes. Prostate cancer can spread beyond the prostate gland to nearby tissues, lymph nodes, and distant organs.
This process is called metastasis.
The most common distant site of prostate cancer spread is the bone.
Other possible sites include:
Distant lymph nodes
Liver
Lungs
Other organs in advanced cases
When prostate cancer spreads to the bones, it may cause persistent pain, fractures, or other complications.
The cancer is still called metastatic prostate cancer, even when it spreads to another organ. It does not become a different type of cancer.
Early identification and appropriate treatment can help manage the disease and reduce the risk of complications.
How Is Prostate Cancer Diagnosed?
Prostate cancer diagnosis involves several tests that help healthcare professionals identify abnormal changes in the prostate, assess the possibility of cancer, and determine whether the disease has spread.
A single test cannot always confirm prostate cancer. Doctors consider a person's age, symptoms, family history, PSA level, examination findings, imaging results, and biopsy results.
Common diagnostic methods include the following.
1. Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) Blood Test
The PSA test is one of the commonly used tests to assess prostate health.
PSA is a protein produced by cells in the prostate gland. A small amount normally enters the bloodstream.
A blood test measures the amount of PSA present.
Higher-than-expected PSA levels may occur with:
Prostate cancer
Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)
Prostatitis
Urinary tract infections
Other prostate-related conditions
A raised PSA level does not automatically mean someone has prostate cancer.
Similarly, a PSA result within the usual reference range does not completely rule out cancer.
Doctors may consider the PSA level, age, previous results, prostate size, family history, and other findings before recommending further investigations.
2. Digital Rectal Examination (DRE)
A digital rectal examination is a physical examination used to assess the prostate gland.
During the examination, a healthcare professional gently inserts a gloved, lubricated finger into the rectum to feel the prostate.
They may assess:
Prostate size
Shape and texture
Hard or irregular areas
Possible abnormalities
An abnormal examination may increase suspicion of prostate cancer and lead to further testing.
However, a DRE cannot confirm or exclude prostate cancer on its own.
3. Prostate MRI Scan
Multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging (mpMRI) is commonly used when prostate cancer is suspected.
It produces detailed images of the prostate and surrounding tissues.
An MRI can help doctors:
Identify suspicious areas within the prostate.
Assess the location and size of possible tumours.
Guide targeted prostate biopsy.
Evaluate possible spread beyond the prostate.
MRI findings are often reported using the Prostate Imaging Reporting and Data System (PI-RADS), which helps describe the likelihood that an abnormal area contains clinically significant prostate cancer.
An MRI cannot establish a definitive diagnosis by itself.
4. Prostate Biopsy
A prostate biopsy involves collecting small samples of prostate tissue for laboratory examination.
It is an important method for confirming prostate cancer.
A biopsy may be recommended when PSA results, MRI findings, examination results, or other clinical factors indicate a need for further investigation.
During the procedure, a doctor uses imaging guidance to collect tissue samples from selected areas.
The samples are examined by a pathologist to identify cancer cells and assess their grade.
Biopsies may be performed using:
A transperineal approach, through the skin between the scrotum and anus.
A transrectal approach, through the rectal wall.
The transperineal approach is increasingly used because it generally carries a lower risk of infection than the transrectal approach.
Possible complications include temporary blood in the urine or semen, discomfort, difficulty urinating, and infection.
5. Additional Imaging Tests
If prostate cancer is confirmed and doctors need to assess whether it has spread, additional imaging may be recommended.
These may include:
CT scans
Bone scans
MRI of other body areas
Prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA) PET scans
The choice of imaging depends on the cancer's risk category, PSA level, biopsy findings, and clinical circumstances.
6. Genetic Testing
Some men may be offered genetic testing, particularly when they have a strong family history or certain high-risk features.
Testing may look for inherited changes in genes such as BRCA1, BRCA2, ATM, and mismatch repair genes.
Genetic information can sometimes help doctors understand the cancer's behaviour and identify treatments that may be suitable.
Genetic counselling may help patients understand the potential implications of testing for themselves and their relatives.
What Are the Treatment Options for Prostate Cancer?
Prostate cancer treatment depends on several factors, including:
Cancer stage
Gleason score and Grade Group
PSA level
Whether the cancer has spread
Age and general health
Personal preferences and treatment goals
Some prostate cancers grow slowly and may not require immediate treatment. Others need active treatment to control the disease.
1. Active Surveillance
Active surveillance is a management approach used for selected men with low-risk prostate cancer.
Instead of starting treatment immediately, doctors monitor the cancer closely.
Monitoring may include:
Regular PSA blood tests
Repeat prostate examinations when appropriate
MRI scans
Repeat biopsies when indicated
Treatment may be recommended if there are signs that the cancer is becoming more aggressive.
Active surveillance helps some men avoid or delay treatment-related side effects while maintaining careful medical monitoring.
It is different from simply ignoring the cancer or avoiding follow-up appointments.
2. Radical Prostatectomy
Radical prostatectomy is a surgical procedure that removes the entire prostate gland and some surrounding tissues.
It may be recommended for selected men with localised or certain locally advanced prostate cancers.
The procedure can be performed using:
Open surgery
Laparoscopic surgery
Robot-assisted surgery
Possible side effects include:
Urinary incontinence
Erectile dysfunction
Changes in sexual function
Surgical complications
Some men may need additional treatment after surgery depending on the final pathology and PSA results.
3. Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy uses high-energy radiation to destroy cancer cells or prevent them from growing.
It is an important treatment option for localised and selected locally advanced prostate cancers.
Two main approaches are used.
External Beam Radiation Therapy (EBRT):
Radiation is delivered from a machine outside the body and directed towards the prostate.
Treatment is usually given over multiple sessions.
Brachytherapy:
Radioactive sources are placed inside or close to the prostate.
This allows radiation to be delivered directly to the treatment area.
Radiation therapy may be used alone or combined with hormone therapy depending on the cancer's risk and stage.
Possible side effects include urinary irritation, bowel changes, fatigue, and erectile dysfunction.
4. Hormone Therapy
Prostate cancer cells often depend on androgens, particularly testosterone, to support their growth.
Hormone therapy, also called androgen deprivation therapy (ADT), reduces testosterone levels or blocks its effects on cancer cells.
It may be used for locally advanced, recurrent, or metastatic prostate cancer and alongside radiation therapy in selected cases.
Treatment options include:
Medicines that reduce testosterone production.
Medicines that block androgen receptors.
Surgical removal of the testicles in selected circumstances.
Possible side effects include:
Hot flashes
Reduced sexual desire
Erectile dysfunction
Loss of muscle mass
Increased body fat
Bone thinning
Fatigue
Metabolic changes
Doctors monitor patients for side effects and may recommend measures to protect bone and cardiovascular health.
5. Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy uses medicines that destroy or slow the growth of rapidly dividing cancer cells.
It may be recommended for certain advanced or metastatic prostate cancers.
Docetaxel is one commonly used chemotherapy medicine.
Chemotherapy may be combined with hormone therapy in selected patients, depending on the disease and treatment plan.
Possible side effects include:
Hair loss
Nausea
Fatigue
Reduced blood cell counts
Increased risk of infection
Nerve-related symptoms
The benefits and risks should be discussed with an oncology team.
6. Targeted Therapy
Targeted therapies work by affecting specific biological changes that help cancer cells survive and grow.
Some men with advanced prostate cancer may benefit from medicines that target DNA repair pathways.
For example, PARP inhibitors may be considered for selected patients with particular inherited or tumour-related genetic alterations.
Treatment eligibility depends on genetic testing, previous treatments, and the specific medicine.
7. Immunotherapy
Immunotherapy helps the body's immune system recognise and respond to cancer cells.
A specialised treatment called sipuleucel-T may be considered for selected men with certain forms of advanced prostate cancer.
Other immunotherapy approaches may be appropriate in uncommon situations, such as cancers with specific molecular characteristics.
Immunotherapy is not suitable for every person with prostate cancer.
8. Treatment for Advanced Prostate Cancer
When prostate cancer spreads beyond the prostate, treatment focuses on controlling the disease, reducing symptoms, and improving quality of life.
Depending on the patient's condition, treatment may include:
Hormone therapy
Androgen receptor pathway inhibitors
Chemotherapy
Targeted medicines
Radiopharmaceutical treatments
Radiation therapy for painful bone metastases
Supportive and palliative care
Some treatments can control advanced prostate cancer for extended periods, although metastatic disease is generally not considered curable.
Can Prostate Cancer Be Prevented?
There is no guaranteed way to prevent prostate cancer.
Some risk factors, such as age, inherited genes, and family history, cannot be changed.
However, healthy lifestyle habits can support general health and may help reduce the risk of several chronic diseases.
Practical steps include:
1. Maintain a Healthy Weight
Obesity has been associated with a higher risk of aggressive prostate cancer and poorer outcomes.
Maintaining a healthy weight through balanced nutrition and regular physical activity supports overall health.
2. Eat a Balanced Diet
Choose a varied eating pattern that includes:
Vegetables
Fruits
Whole grains
Beans and lentils
Appropriate protein sources
Healthy fats
No specific food has been proven to prevent prostate cancer.
3. Exercise Regularly
Regular physical activity supports cardiovascular health, weight management, and overall well-being.
Adults can aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity each week, alongside muscle-strengthening activities on two or more days, if appropriate for their health.
4. Avoid Smoking
Smoking is harmful to overall health and is associated with several cancers and cardiovascular diseases.
Quitting smoking can improve health and may reduce the risk of aggressive prostate cancer and poorer outcomes.
5. Understand Your Family History
Men with close relatives who have had prostate cancer, particularly at a younger age, should discuss their risk with a healthcare professional.
Some inherited genetic changes may influence screening and treatment decisions.
6. Discuss Screening Decisions
Men should understand the potential benefits and limitations of PSA testing before deciding whether to undergo screening.
Screening recommendations vary between countries and professional organisations.
A personalised discussion is particularly important for men with higher-risk backgrounds or a strong family history.
What Is the Survival Rate of Prostate Cancer?
Prostate cancer survival varies depending on the stage at diagnosis, cancer grade, age, overall health, and response to treatment.
Many men diagnosed with localised prostate cancer live for many years, and a substantial proportion are successfully treated or managed over the long term.
Survival is generally better when cancer is diagnosed before it spreads to distant parts of the body.
For context, the American Cancer Society reports five-year relative survival rates using US SEER data:
Localised prostate cancer: Nearly 100%.
Regional prostate cancer: Nearly 100%.
Distant metastatic prostate cancer: Approximately 37%.
These figures are population-level estimates, not predictions for an individual patient. They also reflect people diagnosed in earlier periods and may not fully represent outcomes with newer treatments.
The outlook for each person should be discussed with their treating medical team.
Prostate Cancer Screening: What Should Men Know?
Screening means testing people who do not have symptoms to look for possible signs of cancer.
The PSA blood test is commonly used in prostate cancer screening, but it has limitations.
A raised PSA level can occur without cancer, while some men with prostate cancer may have PSA levels that are not particularly high.
Screening can sometimes detect cancers that would never have caused symptoms or affected a person's lifespan. This is known as overdiagnosis.
Treatment of these cancers may lead to unnecessary side effects.
United States:
The US Preventive Services Task Force recommends individual decision-making about PSA-based screening for men aged 55–69 after discussing potential benefits and harms. It recommends against routine PSA-based screening for men aged 70 and older.
Other professional organisations may use different approaches for higher-risk men.
United Kingdom:
The NHS does not offer routine population-wide PSA screening for all men.
Men aged 50 and over can discuss PSA testing with their GP, particularly if they have concerns or risk factors.
Men with a strong family history or other increased risk factors may need an earlier discussion.
Screening guidance can change, so decisions should be based on current local recommendations and individual circumstances.
Frequently Asked Questions About Prostate Cancer
1. What is the first warning sign of prostate cancer?
Early prostate cancer often causes no symptoms. When symptoms develop, some men may experience urinary difficulties, such as a weak urine stream or frequent urination. These symptoms can also occur with non-cancerous prostate conditions.
2. At what age does prostate cancer usually develop?
Prostate cancer is more common in older men, particularly those aged 50 and above. However, it can occur in younger men, especially those with inherited genetic risk factors or a strong family history.
3. Can prostate cancer develop without urinary symptoms?
Yes. Many men with early prostate cancer have no noticeable urinary symptoms or other warning signs. Some cases are discovered through PSA testing or further investigations.
4. Does a high PSA level mean prostate cancer?
No. PSA levels can increase because of prostate enlargement, inflammation, infection, and other conditions. A high PSA result needs appropriate medical assessment and does not confirm cancer by itself.
5. Can prostate cancer be cured?
Many localised prostate cancers can be treated successfully. The possibility of cure depends on the cancer's stage, grade, and other individual factors. Advanced metastatic prostate cancer is generally managed rather than considered curable.
6. Is prostate cancer hereditary?
Some prostate cancer cases are associated with inherited genetic changes. Men with close relatives who have had prostate cancer or certain other cancers may have an increased risk.
7. Can prostate cancer spread to the bones?
Yes. Prostate cancer commonly spreads to the bones in advanced disease. This may cause persistent bone pain, fractures, or other complications.
8. What is the difference between prostate cancer and an enlarged prostate?
Prostate cancer involves abnormal cancer cell growth, whereas benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate. Both conditions can cause urinary symptoms, but they are different diseases.
9. Does prostate cancer affect sexual function?
Prostate cancer itself may affect sexual health in some men. Treatments such as surgery, radiation therapy, and hormone therapy can also cause erectile dysfunction or reduced sexual desire.
10. Can younger men develop prostate cancer?
Yes, although it is less common in younger men. Inherited genetic changes and a strong family history may increase the risk. Persistent symptoms or concerns should be discussed with a healthcare professional.
Conclusion
Prostate cancer is a common cancer affecting men, particularly as they get older. It often develops slowly and may not cause noticeable symptoms during its early stages.
Understanding possible warning signs, family history, inherited risk factors, and available diagnostic tests can help men make informed decisions about their health.
PSA testing, MRI scans, and prostate biopsies play important roles in evaluating suspected prostate cancer. Treatment options include active surveillance, surgery, radiation therapy, hormone therapy, chemotherapy, and targeted medicines.
Not every prostate cancer requires immediate treatment. Some low-risk cancers can be monitored carefully, while more aggressive disease may need prompt specialist care.
Men who are concerned about their prostate health should discuss their individual risk and screening options with a qualified healthcare professional.
Early evaluation and personalised treatment planning can make an important difference in managing prostate cancer.
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Medical Disclaimer
This article is intended for general educational and informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
Prostate cancer symptoms can overlap with those of non-cancerous prostate conditions. PSA testing also has limitations and should be considered through an informed discussion with a qualified healthcare professional.
Do not start, stop, or change any medication or treatment based solely on information in this article. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional regarding prostate symptoms, screening, diagnosis, and treatment decisions.
References
National Cancer Institute (NCI) – Prostate Cancer Treatment (PDQ).
https://www.cancer.gov/types/prostate/patient/prostate-treatment-pdqAmerican Cancer Society – Prostate Cancer.
https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/prostate-cancer.htmlNational Health Service (NHS) – Prostate Cancer.
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/prostate-cancer/National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) – Prostate Cancer: Diagnosis and Management.
https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/ng131US Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) – Prostate Cancer: Screening.
https://www.uspreventiveservicestaskforce.org/uspstf/recommendation/prostate-cancer-screeningNational Cancer Institute (NCI) – Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) Test.
https://www.cancer.gov/types/prostate/psa-fact-sheetAmerican Urological Association (AUA) – Early Detection of Prostate Cancer Guideline.
https://www.auanet.org/guidelines-and-quality/guidelines/early-detection-of-prostate-cancer-guidelines
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