It was a calm Thursday afternoon at the clinic, and the scent of freshly brewed coffee lingered in the air. The waiting room was moderately busy. As I glanced at the schedule, I noticed my next patient, James Henderson, a 61-year-old retired engineer. James was a regular visitor for routine check-ups, but today his file had a few new notes.
When James entered, his usual upbeat demeanor was shadowed by unease. He smiled faintly, adjusting his glasses. “Good afternoon, Dr. Priya.”
“Good afternoon, James,” I greeted warmly, inviting him to sit. “How have things been?”
He sighed, his fingers fidgeting slightly. “Not so great. I’ve been going to the bathroom more often, especially at night. Sometimes, there’s a burning sensation, and I feel like I can’t empty my bladder completely.”
I listened closely. “That sounds uncomfortable. How long has this been going on?”
“A couple of months now,” he admitted. “I figured it was just part of getting older, but my wife insisted I come in.”
I nodded, appreciating his honesty. “I’m glad you did. These symptoms can sometimes point to issues with the prostate. Let’s talk more about it.”
What is the Prostate Gland?
“The prostate gland,” I began, “is a small, walnut-sized organ located at the base of the bladder. It produces some of the fluid found in semen. However, in some cases, the cells within the prostate can become abnormal and develop into cancerous growths.”
James’s eyes widened slightly. “Cancer?” he asked cautiously.
I nodded gently. “Yes, prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers among men. But if caught early, it is often treatable.”
Image courtesy graceprostatecancercentre
How Common is Prostate Cancer?
“Prostate cancer affects about 1 in 10 men by the age of 75 and 1 in 5 men by the age of 85,” I explained. “It’s the second most common cause of cancer-related death among men, particularly in countries like Australia.”
James looked down thoughtfully. “I didn’t know it was that common.”
A 2020 study by the American Cancer Society found that approximately 248,530 new cases of prostate cancer were diagnosed in the U.S. that year alone. Early detection through screening significantly improves outcomes. (Source: American Cancer Society, 2020)
Recognizing the Symptoms
“Prostate cancer often develops without symptoms in the early stages,” I explained. “However, when symptoms do appear, they may include:
- Frequent urination, especially during the night
- Difficulty starting and stopping urination
- Dribbling of urine
- Pain or burning sensation when passing urine
- A feeling of incomplete emptying of the bladder
- Urgency to urinate quickly
- Discomfort during ejaculation
- Blood in urine or semen”
James nodded. “I’ve been dealing with a few of those.”
I added, “These symptoms can also be caused by benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate, but we need to be sure.”
What Causes Prostate Cancer?
“The exact cause of prostate cancer isn’t fully understood,” I explained. “But there are several risk factors:
- Age – The risk increases significantly after 50.
- Family History – A first-degree relative with prostate cancer, especially if diagnosed before 60, increases your risk.
- Race – Black men have a higher incidence and mortality rate.
- Diet – Diets high in fats and low in fruits, vegetables, and fish may contribute.
Research published in the journal “Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention” highlights that men with a family history are 2.5 times more likely to develop prostate cancer than those without. (Source: Cancer Epidemiology, 2018)
Diagnosis and Screening
“To diagnose prostate issues, we can perform a few key tests,” I explained.
- Digital Rectal Examination (DRE) – A physical exam where I check the prostate for abnormalities.
- Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) Test – A blood test to measure PSA levels. Elevated levels might indicate cancer.
- Biopsy – If necessary, we’ll take small samples of prostate tissue for analysis.
The National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) recommends annual PSA and DRE screenings for men with risk factors starting at age 40. (Source: NCCN Guidelines, 2021)
James nodded. “What happens if the results aren’t normal?”
Treatment Options for Prostate Cancer
“Treatment depends on the cancer’s grade, stage, and your overall health,” I said. “The options include:
- Watchful Waiting – For slow-growing cancers, especially in older men.
- Surgery (Radical Prostatectomy) – Removal of the prostate.
- Brachytherapy – Inserting radioactive implants to destroy cancer cells.
- Hormone Therapy – Reducing testosterone levels to slow cancer growth.”
Research published in the “New England Journal of Medicine” shows that radical prostatectomy has a 10-year survival rate of over 90% when the cancer is detected early. (Source: NEJM, 2016)
Screening Guidelines
“Screening is a personal decision,” I explained. “For men with a family history or other risk factors, screenings are generally recommended starting at age 40. However, after 70, the benefits of screening become less clear.”
James nodded thoughtfully. “I think I’d like to go ahead with the screening.”
FAQs About Prostate Cancer
1. What are the early signs of prostate cancer?
Early signs can include frequent urination, pain during urination, and blood in the urine or semen.
2. How is prostate cancer treated?
Treatment options include surgery, radiation, hormone therapy, and watchful waiting.
3. Who is at higher risk?
Men over 50, those with a family history, and Black men are at higher risk.
4. What is a PSA test?
A blood test that measures prostate-specific antigen levels to detect potential prostate issues.
5. Can prostate cancer be cured?
Yes, especially if detected early. The survival rate is high with early intervention.