What are the Causes and Symptoms of Prostate Cancer?
Prostate cancer is one of the most common conditions affecting men in United States. Most men above 50-years-old will develop this condition, at least in a mild way. The disease progresses very slowly and mostly remains asymptomatic until it reaches an advanced stage. In most cases, the disease may not require any treatment at all or need just minimal procedures. There are few cases where the cancer in this organ spreads very rapidly and aggressively, and it requires specific treatment. Diagnosis of prostate cancer in the early stages is very important for successful treatment.
The actual cause of the disease is still unknown. It is most commonly seen in men above 65-years-old and the risk increases considerably if there is a family history of the disease. African-American men have more chances of getting the disease when compared to others. It is also noticed that the disease is more aggressive in this race. Obesity is yet another factor that may increase the risk of this disease, and the chances of the condition being in advanced stages are greater. Cancer of the prostate may lead to complications, like incontinence and erectile dysfunction.
Early stages of the disease may not show any symptoms at all. Symptoms start appearing only when the gland swells or when it spreads to other organs. Most of the symptoms of prostate cancer are caused by the blockage due to the growth of the glands.
Common symptoms include:
- Increased frequency of urination
- Difficulty in stopping urine stream
- weak force of urine stream
- Unexpected leaking of urine while coughing and laughing
- Presence of blood in urine and semen
- Pain while urinating
In advanced stages, the disease may cause:
- Pain and stiffness at the back
- Pain in the bones of the legs pelvis
- Swelling in lower extremities
- Constipation
- Weakness of the legs
Pain while urinating and ejaculating need urgent medical attention. If a person has the tendency to frequently urinate along with difficulty in starting and maintaining urine stream, it should be taken as a warning sign and an individual should screen for prostate cancer. Those who are above 60-years-old and have any of the risk factors for the condition should regularly screen for prostate cancer. Earlier the diagnosis of the cancer better are the chances of recovery with appropriate treatment.
