September is Prostate Cancer Awareness Month. It’s important to be aware of the symptoms and treatment options for prostate cancer so you can detect and treat it as early as possible.
What is Prostate Cancer?
Prostate cancer starts in the prostate gland, which is a small, walnut-sized structure that is part of the man’s reproductive system. Though there are some cases of prostate cancer that are more aggressive, prostate cancer usually grows slowly and remains confined to the prostate gland.
Symptoms of Prostate Cancer
Prostate cancer symptoms can vary among individuals, and many men may not experience any symptoms.
If you notice any of the following signs, it’s important to schedule a prompt consultation with your healthcare provider:
- Challenges initiating urination.
- Urine flow that is weak or frequently interrupted.
- Increased frequency of urination, especially during the night.
- Difficulty fully emptying the bladder.
- Sensations of pain or burning during urination.
- Presence of blood in urine or semen.
- Persistent discomfort in the back, hips, or pelvis.
- Ejaculation accompanied by pain.
Treating Prostate Cancer
The treatment choices for prostate cancer are significantly influenced by the cancer’s stage. Prostate cancer has various stages, which are as follows:
- Stage I: At this point, the cancer displays low aggression. In some cases, treatment might not be necessary, and a monitoring approach could be chosen by your doctor.
- Stage II: Cancer in this stage could still exhibit significant aggression. It might have grown larger and could affect both sides of the prostate gland.
- Stage III: During this stage, the cancer has extended beyond the prostate gland and infiltrated nearby tissues.
- Stage IV: At this advanced stage, the cancer has spread to adjacent organs like the bladder or lymph nodes.
Depending on the stage of the prostate cancer, Dr. Farjaad Siddiq may choose radiation therapy, hormone therapy, surgery to remove the prostate, chemotherapy or immunotherapy.