Prostate Cancer Expert Answers Your Questions
Prostate Cancer Expert Answers Your Questions
Understanding the Warning Signs and Treatment of Prostate Cancer

Prostate cancer is the second-leading cause of cancer death in men, making it essential for men to be familiar with its warning signs and get screened regularly. With over 288,000 new diagnoses and nearly 35,000 deaths expected this year, it’s crucial that men become aware of their risk and take proactive measures. In addition to those who are affected, there are 3.5 million American men currently living with prostate cancer.
Unfortunately, the highest death rates for prostate cancer are among black men, who are twice as likely to die from it compared to white men[^1^]. This alarming statistic highlights the urgent need for prevention, early detection, and effective treatment to improve survival rates and reduce the burden of this disease.
Recognizing the Signs
Recognizing the warning signs of prostate cancer is crucial for early diagnosis. These signs may include urinary problems such as difficulty starting urination or urinating frequently, as well as pain during ejaculation. It’s important to note that these symptoms are not exclusive to prostate cancer, so consulting a doctor is essential to determine the cause[^1^].
Advanced prostate cancer that has spread beyond the prostate may cause hip or back pain[^1^]. However, in most cases, prostate cancer does not present any noticeable symptoms, and it is often diagnosed through a biopsy following an abnormal blood test[^1^].
Understanding Risk Factors
Prostate cancer can affect anyone with a prostate. However, certain factors increase the risk of developing the disease. For example, black men have a 70% higher likelihood of being diagnosed with prostate cancer[^1^]. Age also plays a significant role, as the risk increases with advancing years.
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Additionally, individuals with a close male relative who has had prostate cancer or a close female relative who has had breast cancer may have an inherited genetic risk for developing the disease[^1^]. However, maintaining a healthy body weight, not smoking, and engaging in physical activity can help offset some of these higher risks[^1^].
Treatment Options
Once diagnosed, there are various treatment options available for prostate cancer. For localized cancer that has not spread beyond the prostate, surgery known as radical prostatectomy (prostate removal) or certain forms of radiation therapy are commonly used[^1^]. Men with a low risk of cancer spreading may undergo active surveillance, closely monitoring any signs of cancer progression[^1^].
More aggressive forms of the disease may require additional therapies that target hormonal pathways, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, or radiopharmaceutical therapies[^1^]. Encouragingly, significant progress has been made in the discovery and approval of new therapies for prostate cancer in recent years[^1^].
The Importance of Screening
Regular screening is essential for early detection and improved prognosis. The primary screening test for prostate cancer involves measuring the level of a marker called prostate-specific antigen (PSA) in the blood[^1^]. Elevated PSA levels may suggest the presence of prostate cancer or an enlarged prostate. Regular PSA screening has been proven to reduce prostate cancer deaths[^1^].
Ongoing research aims to develop more effective screening approaches, targeting individuals at the highest risk while safely reducing screening frequency for those at lower risk[^1^]. Men at average risk for prostate cancer are recommended to discuss the benefits and limitations of screening with their healthcare provider at the age of 50, according to the American Cancer Society[^1^].
Prostate cancer is a widespread and potentially dangerous disease, but with increased awareness and preventative measures, we can save lives and reduce the impact it has on society. By recognizing the warning signs, understanding risk factors, and prioritizing regular screening, men can take control of their health and improve their chances of surviving and thriving beyond a prostate cancer diagnosis.
More information: Here’s more on prostate cancer.
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Sources:
[^1^] American Cancer Society, news release, Aug. 30, 2023