Prostate Cancer

Prostate cancer is a form of cancer that begins in the prostate gland—a small, walnut-shaped gland in men that produces seminal fluid. It is one of the most common cancers among men, especially those over age 50. While it often grows slowly and may not cause serious harm, some types are more aggressive and require prompt treatment.

Types of Prostate Cancer

1. Adenocarcinoma

The most common type of prostate cancer, adenocarcinoma begins in the gland cells of the prostate. It usually grows slowly but can become aggressive in advanced stages.

Common symptoms:

• Frequent or difficult urination
• Blood in urine or semen
• Pelvic discomfort
• Erectile dysfunction
2. Small Cell Carcinoma

A rare and aggressive form of prostate cancer that doesn’t produce PSA and spreads quickly to other parts of the body.

Common symptoms:

• Unexplained weight loss
• Fatigue
• Bone pain
• Neurological symptoms (if metastasized)

What Causes Prostate Cancer?

The exact cause of prostate cancer is unknown, but certain risk factors are known to contribute:

• Age (risk increases after 50)
• Family history of prostate or breast cancer
• Genetic mutations (BRCA1/BRCA2)
• Obesity and poor diet
• High testosterone levels
• Ethnicity (more common in African-American men)

How is Prostate Cancer Diagnosed?

Diagnosis typically involves a combination of screening tests and imaging:

• PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) Test: Measures PSA levels in the blood
• Digital Rectal Exam (DRE): Physician checks prostate for lumps or abnormalities
• Biopsy: Removal of prostate tissue for analysis
• MRI or CT scan: To assess tumor size and spread
• Bone scan: Checks if cancer has spread to bones

Regular screening is crucial, especially for men with high risk factors.

Treatment Options for Prostate Cancer

Treatment varies depending on the cancer’s stage, grade, and patient health. Options include:

1. Active Surveillance

Monitoring the cancer closely in cases where it's slow-growing and not causing symptoms.

2. Surgery (Prostatectomy)

Removal of the prostate gland, often recommended in early stages for healthy patients.

3. Radiation Therapy

High-energy beams destroy cancer cells. Can be external or internal (brachytherapy).

4. Hormone Therapy

Reduces testosterone levels, which fuels prostate cancer growth.

5. Chemotherapy

Used in advanced or hormone-resistant cancers to kill cancer cells systemically.

Why Early Detection is Critical?

Prostate cancer often progresses silently in its early stages. Regular screening allows for early detection, when treatment is most effective and minimally invasive. Delayed diagnosis can reduce survival chances and limit treatment options.

Support, Recovery & Life After Prostate Cancer

Recovery from prostate cancer is a long-term process involving:

• Pelvic floor therapy to regain bladder control
• Management of sexual side effects
• Regular follow-up with PSA tests
• Emotional and psychological support
• Dietary changes and exercise programs

Most men recover well after treatment and lead healthy, active lives with appropriate lifestyle modifications and monitoring.

Conclusion

Prostate cancer is highly treatable when detected early. Men over 50, especially those at higher risk, should undergo regular screenings. With the right treatment and support, many men recover fully and continue to live a high-quality life.