Why don't we know more about prostate cancer, the most often diagnosed malignancy?

Most men, it turns out, are unaware of any of the symptoms of prostate cancer. Despite the fact that prostate cancer is the most often diagnosed cancer in the UK, most men surveyed in a YouGov study were unable to identify any of the disease's indications or symptoms. In 2020, the number of diagnoses for prostate cancer surpassed those for breast cancer.

In a survey of 1,456 males, 68% said they were unaware of any of the symptoms, and knowledge is significantly lower among older men, who are the most vulnerable.

In fact, 62% of those aged 50 to 59, 60% of those aged 60 to 69, and 54% of those aged 70 to 79 did not recognize any indicators.

Only one in every eight males (13%) noticed the most well-known symptom, which is the need to urinate more frequently.

So, what else about prostate cancer do you need to know?

WHERE DOES THE PROSTATE LIVE?

Prostate cancer begins in the prostate gland, which is located at the base of the bladder and is about the size of a walnut, according to Prostate Cancer UK (PCUK, prostatecanceruk.org).

The prostate gland grows larger with age, and its primary function is to produce the thick white fluid that combines with sperm produced by the testicles to form semen.

THERE DON'T APPEAR TO BE SYMPTOMS AT FIRST.

Prostate cancer that is contained within the prostate normally does not cause any symptoms. Symptoms usually don't develop until the prostate has grown large enough to harm the urethra (the tube that carries urine from the bladder out of the penis).

IF SYMPTOMS DO ARISE, THEY WILL MOST LIKELY AFFECT YOU WHEN YOU URINATE.

If your prostate becomes enlarged, you may experience an increased need to urinate, straining while urinating, a weak flow, leaking pee after you've finished, and the feeling that your bladder hasn't completely emptied.

While some men may experience urinary issues, according to PCUK, "they can be mild and develop over time, and may be a symptom of a benign prostate disease rather than prostate cancer."

A non-cancerous enlarged prostate, which is fairly common, can also induce such symptoms. However, anyone experiencing symptoms should see a doctor.

ADDITIONAL SYMPTOMS INVOLVED INCLUDE...

Other signs and symptoms of prostate cancer include lower back pain, rectal pain or discomfort, and sex-related issues including blood in the sperm, pain when ejaculating, or erectile dysfunction. Bone and back discomfort, a loss of appetite, testicular pain, and unintended weight loss are all signs of advanced cancer.

HOW DOES IT GET DIAGNOSED?

A Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) blood test may be ordered for men who are experiencing symptoms, as individuals with prostate cancer may have a high PSA level.

PSA levels can also be high in benign prostate disorders or if you have an infection, according to Cancer Research UK (CRUK, cancerresearchuk.org), therefore a cancer diagnosis isn't normally established only on the basis of a PSA test result.

Men may also get a rectum examination, in which a doctor uses their finger to feel into the rectum. Scans and a biopsy may be required.

NOT EVERYONE REQUIRES HELP.

Because some prostate tumors develop too slowly to create issues or shorten life expectancy, many men with prostate cancer will never require treatment. Some prostate cancers, on the other hand, grow quickly and are more prone to spread, necessitating therapy.

WHO GETS IT AND WHAT ARE THE RISK FACTORS

If you're over 50, have a close family (father or brother) who has had prostate cancer, or are black, you're more likely to have prostate cancer.

According to PCUK, one in every eight men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer over their lifetime, and one in every four black men, who are more susceptible at 45 and older, will be diagnosed with the disease. According to PCUK, one man dies from prostate cancer every 45 minutes.

WHAT CAN YOU DO TO LOWER YOUR RISK?

According to CRUK, there is evidence that being physically active can help reduce the incidence of prostate cancer. Furthermore, being overweight or obese raises your chances of developing advanced prostate cancer. Sticking to suggested drinking limits, eating a well-balanced diet, and refraining from smoking are all regarded to be advantageous.

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