A common type of cancer in men, prostate cancer, when detected, early can be treated. So, it is important for men to be aware of the early signs and diagnosis for prostate cancer, especially if they are over 50 and have a family history of the disease.

Early signs of prostate cancer

Most men do not experience any symptoms of prostate cancer in the early stages. A variety of urinary symptoms are apparent only when cancer grows near the urinating tube and presses on the urethra. Some of the early signs are –

• Pain or burning sensation while urinating
• Difficulty in urinating
• Frequent urge to urinate at night
• Loss of bladder control
• Blood in urine
• Blood in the seminal fluid
• Decreased or interrupted urine flow
• Painful ejaculation
• The onset of erectile dysfunction

Other conditions can also be cause the above signs. That is why a proper diagnosis by a doctor should be made as soon as possible. Prostate cancer in its advanced stages can spread to other parts of the body and cause the below signs and symptoms –

• Pain in the back, hip, or pelvis
• Unexplained weight loss
• Weakness in the legs or feet
• Abnormal bowel habits

Prostate cancer Diagnosis

Early signs and diagnosis of prostate cancer are essential for timely treatment. Several tests help doctors diagnose the disease. The following tests are done to diagnose prostate cancer.

• Digital rectal examination

The first test administered to diagnose prostate cancer is a digital rectal examination. This helps the doctor to identify any lumps or unusual growths.

• Prostate specific antigen test (PSA)

Apart from physical examination, men who have any symptoms of prostate cancer have to take a PSA test. A blood sample is taken to measure the level of PSA in the blood. A high level indicates abnormal activity in the prostate, which can indicate prostate cancer, BPH (benign prostatic hyperplasia), or inflammation of the prostate. Depending on the PSA report, the doctor will decide if a biopsy is needed.

• Biopsy

A small sample of tissue is taken and examined for the presence of cancer cells.

• Imaging tests

Based on other test results, the doctor may recommend imaging tests such as a pelvic CT scan, an MRI scan, or a bone scan. These tests check if cancer has spread to other parts of the body.

The early signs and diagnosis for prostate cancer using the above tests will help determine the stage of prostate cancer. Stage 1 is when the cancer is only in the prostate. Stage 2 is when the tumor is advanced but has not spread beyond the prostate. Stage 3 is when the tumor has spread beyond the prostate but has not reached the lymph nodes. When cancer has spread to other parts of the body, it is stage 4.

Prostate cancer is the leading cause of death due to cancer; that is why men should undergo regular screenings. Early signs and diagnosis for prostate cancer will help your doctor plan the correct treatment.