Prostate Cancer: What You Need to Know

July 26, 2021

The prostate is the male gland that produces the seminal fluid that nourishes and transports sperm.  Unfortunately, cancer in the prostate is one of the most common types of cancers.  Many prostate cancers are slow growing and are confined to the prostate; others are fast growing and can spread quickly.  In order to have the best chance at successful treatment, prostate cancer needs to be detected as early as possible.  That’s why we’re here to discuss the causes, symptoms, and treatment for prostate cancer.
 

Causes

Although it’s not clear what actually causes prostate cancer, studies have shown that it starts when cells in the prostate develop changes in their DNA.  These changes make the cells grow and divide faster than normal cells do.  When these cells accumulate, they can form a tumor; over time, abnormal cells can spread.  Although we’re not aware of the cause, there are certain factors that increase the risk of getting it, which include: age (it’s most common after the age of 50), race, family history, and obesity.
 

Symptoms

As mentioned, the best time to treat prostate cancer is early on.  That being said, early prostate cancer usually doesn’t have symptoms, which is why it’s found through screening.  That’s why it’s important to get regular check-ups with your urologist in New York.  As the cancer progresses, the symptoms are: problems urinating, blood in the urine or semen, erectile dysfunction, pain in the hips, back, or chest, and weakness or numbness in the legs or feet.
 

Treatment

There are many different ways to treat prostate cancer.  Which one is best for each patient depends on how early it was detected, whether or not it has spread, and other factors.  Some of the treatment options include: radiation therapy, surgery, targeted therapy, cryotherapy, observation or active surveillance, and more.  To learn more about your treatment options, talk with your urologist in New York.