Prostate Cancer

Prostate cancer occurs when cells in the prostate, a small gland that sits below the bladder in men and helps make semen, begin to grow abnormally. Many prostate cancers grow slowly and may never cause serious problems, while others grow more quickly and can spread. Understanding how a particular cancer behaves is key to deciding on the right care.

Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers in men. The risk increases with age and is higher for men with a family history of the disease and in certain ethnic groups. Because it often develops slowly and without symptoms, many cases are found through testing. The outlook is generally very good, particularly when it is detected early.

Early prostate cancer often causes no symptoms. When symptoms do appear, they may include needing to urinate more often, especially at night, difficulty starting or stopping, a weak flow, or a feeling that the bladder is not fully empty. These signs are frequently caused by a non-cancerous enlarged prostate, but they are worth discussing with a doctor.

The exact cause is not fully understood. Age is the strongest risk factor, with most cases occurring in older men. A family history of prostate or some related cancers can raise the risk, as can certain inherited gene changes and ethnic background. Lifestyle factors such as being overweight may also play a role. Having a risk factor does not mean cancer is certain.

Assessment may include a blood test that measures PSA, a protein that can be raised in prostate conditions, and a physical examination of the prostate. An MRI scan is often used to look at the gland more closely. If needed, a biopsy takes small tissue samples to confirm whether cancer is present and how likely it is to grow, which guides decisions about treatment.

Treatment depends on how advanced the cancer is and how quickly it is likely to grow. For slow-growing cancers, doctors may recommend careful monitoring rather than immediate treatment. Other options include surgery to remove the prostate, radiotherapy, and hormone therapy. A specialist team will discuss the benefits and possible side effects so you can choose the right approach together.

There is no certain way to prevent prostate cancer, but a healthy weight, regular activity, and a balanced diet support overall health. Because it often has no early symptoms, talking with your doctor about PSA testing, especially if you are older or have a family history, can help find it early, when more treatment options are available and outcomes are best.