Prostate cancer, a prevalent malignancy among men, demands careful attention due to its potential asymptomatic nature in the early stages.
It is however important to be on the lookout for some presentations such as increased frequency of urination, particularly at night (nocturia): Prostate cancer may result in the enlargement of the prostate gland, leading to obstructed urinary flow and nocturia.
Difficulty initiating or stopping urination: Tumors in the prostate can exert pressure on the urethra, causing challenges in the initiation and cessation of the urinary stream. Weak or interrupted urine flow: An irregular or weakened urine stream can indicate prostate obstruction, prompting further evaluation. Presence of blood in urine (hematuria) or semen: Hematuria or bloody semen may be associated with prostate cancer and necessitates thorough investigation by a urologist to rule out other potential causes.
Pain or discomfort during urination: Urologists recognize that pain during urination may signal various urological conditions, including advanced prostate cancer.
Pelvic, lower back, or upper thigh pain: Discomfort in these areas may indicate the prostate tumour’s involvement in surrounding structures, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive assessment.
Difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection: Urologists understand the intricate relationship between prostate health and erectile function. Prostate cancer, along with its treatments, can impact erectile function and necessitates urological evaluation. Elevated PSA levels. PSA testing is used to assess prostate health. Elevated PSA levels, while not definitive for cancer, warrant further investigation to differentiate between malignancy and benign conditions such as prostatitis or BPH. Regular screenings, including PSA tests and digital rectal exams (DRE), are fundamental components of proactive prostate health management. It is important to advocate for these screenings, in order to enable the early detection of potential issues and facilitating timely interventions.
Individuals must communicate openly with their urologists, providing a foundation for informed decision-making and personalized healthcare. If there is a concern regarding prostate health or the manifestation of any symptoms above, seeking the expertise of a urologist is paramount.
