Prostate cancer is a form of cancer that develops in the male reproductive gland called, the prostate. Worldwide, it is the sixth leading cause of cancer related fatalities in men. It usually strikes men over the age of fifty and often goes undiagnosed and untreated. The lack of diagnosis and treatment is often because many do not know the signs of prostate cancer. Below are signs and symptoms of prostate cancer.
Issues around urinating are often signs of prostate cancer. Many men may feel the need to urinate quite often and may be unable to control or stop the urination. They may also leak urine when they laugh or cough. Sometimes, they may experience a burning sensation when going. Another symptom of this cancer is blood being seen in urine or semen. On the other hand, some may be unable to urinate as the urinary tract may be blocked due to swelling. Their streams may be weak or intermittent. they may have trouble starting urination and may even be unable to stand when urinating.
More prostate cancer symptoms and signs are swelling and inflammation. This may occur in several areas as the cancer begins to grow and spread. Oftentimes, urination issues are associated with a swelling of the prostate and blockage by the cancer growth within the prostate. Another area where swelling may occur is in the legs. This swelling may cause difficulty walking, standing or general weakness.
Chronic pain or stiffness is another symptom of this cancer. This may occur in various areas, such as the pelvis, lower back, ribs, or upper thighs. There may even be bone pain in these areas as well. Note that this is often a symptom of advanced form of this cancer.
Weight loss and digestive issues are another sign of prostate cancer. Men may experience an unexplained bout of weight loss or loss of appetite. Vomiting, nausea and diarrhea may also present themselves. This may also be accompanied by fatigue.
Along with the this cancer symptoms and signs, it is important to know who are at high risk for developing cancer. Older men are usually a high risk for prostate cancer. In fact, men over 65 are most often diagnosed with cancer and the risks increase with age. Black men are also at high risk for developing cancer. In fact, they are more likely to have aggressive forms of the cancer.
Genetics also play a key factor. Therefore it is important to know family history and determine if prostate cancer is common amongst the men in a family. In addition, obesity is another possible risk factor. Many obese men are often found with advanced forms of the cancer.
It is important to see your doctor for regular prostate exams after the age of 50. Also eating a healthy diet may decrease your chances of the cancer developing. However, knowing the signs and symptoms of this cancer is invaluable information which could help in early diagnosis and treatment which is the best way to start combating the disease.
Source by Harry Kwon
