Are There Common Signs Of Prostate Cancer?

Although prostate cancer can cause symptoms in some cases, there are many patients with prostate cancer who are virtually asymptomatic. Furthermore, prostate cancer symptoms can vary widely in terms of their nature, severity, when they appear, and other aspects. Because of its characteristically varying symptomatology, patients should rely heavily on advanced prostate cancer screening tools vs. waiting for symptoms to appear.

Fortunately, prostate cancer is one of the most treatable forms of cancer when detected early. Even then, prostate cancer is often slow-growing and does not require immediate treatment. However, some forms of prostate cancer are more aggressive and need both early diagnosis and treatment. While routine PSA testing is one of the most effective ways to detect prostate cancer, it is also helpful to know whether there are any common signs or symptoms of prostate cancer you should watch for.

The expert team at Kasraeian Urology in Jacksonville, FL, including board-certified urologists Dr. Ali Kasraeian and Dr. Ahmad Kasraeian, is committed to helping men preserve their health and function with the most advanced and effective prostate cancer screening tools and treatment options available today.

Is prostate cancer dangerous?

Prostate cancer is highly treatable when detected and diagnosed early. In fact, some grades of prostate cancer progress so slowly that they will likely not cause any problems for the remainder of the patient’s lifetime and can be monitored rather than treated. However, other classifications of prostate cancer can grow rapidly and be life-threatening.

The importance of screening for prostate cancer

Symptoms of prostate cancer can range from mild to severe and, in some cases, may not be present at all. Furthermore, prostate cancer symptoms can mimic the signs and symptoms of other conditions. For these reasons, it is critical that men undergo regular prostate cancer screenings with a PSA test and digital rectal exam (DRE) as recommended by their primary care physician or urologist. Patients with noted prostate cancer risk factors may require more frequent evaluation than others. These include:

• Family history of prostate cancer
• Genetics
• Ethnicity
• Elevated PSA
• Personal history of prostate cancer
• History of abnormal biopsy
• Obesity
• Being over age 40
• Smoking

At what age should I start getting prostate exams/prostate cancer screenings?

Generally speaking, most men are encouraged to begin routine prostate cancer screenings – including a PSA test and DRE – at about age 50. However, patients who are at increased risk of prostate cancer or those who experience suspicious prostate cancer symptoms – such as frequent urination, blood in the urine, obstructed voiding, and others – may need earlier or more frequent prostate cancer screening. Additionally, patients with a personal or family history of prostate cancer, as well as men who have a personal history of an elevated PSA, will likely be evaluated with a PSA, DRE, or another prostate cancer screening tool at earlier and/or more frequent intervals.

Patients should also keep in mind that symptoms of prostate cancer can also be similar to the symptoms of other urologic conditions, including benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). While BPH does not increase a patient’s risk of developing prostate cancer, it is important for men with suspicious symptoms to be thoroughly evaluated and screened for the presence of prostate cancer.

With early diagnosis and advanced prostate cancer treatment in Jacksonville, FL patients can enjoy long, vibrant, full lives

By adhering to a regular screening schedule, men can greatly reduce their risk of developing a life-threatening disease. Whether you are experiencing worrisome prostate cancer symptoms or simply want to establish a PSA baseline, Kasraeian Urology can help. Call our expert team to schedule your private consultation with Jacksonville, FL board-certified urologists Dr. Ahmad Kasraeian and Dr. Ali Kasraeian and take the first step toward protecting your urologic health today!