Prostate Cancer — Symptoms

Cancer is a serious and life-threatening disease. Yet many cancers have surprisingly few symptoms. Prostate cancer is, to a large extent, a silent disease.

In most cases, prostate cancer is detected during a routine prostate exam. Since many men do not schedule routine rectal exams, prostate cancer may have already reached an advanced stage by the time of diagnosis.

When prostate cancer does cause symptoms, they are frequently confused with those of BPH or enlarged prostate, a very common condition in men over 55.

Men often associate urinary problems (incomplete urination, frequent urination, interrupted urine flow, urgency, weak urine stream, straining to begin urination) with "simply getting older." But these may be symptoms of prostate disease, which is why yearly checkups are essential.

Advanced prostate cancer (cancer which has spread to other parts of the body) often demonstrates more symptoms such as:

• Blood in the seminal fluid
• Impotence
• Back pain and fatigue

However, the lack of these specific symptoms does not mean that advanced prostate cancer is not present.

When to See a Doctor about Prostate Cancer

See your doctor if you are experiencing any urinary problems, even if they are not bothersome. Your doctor can diagnose your condition and, if necessary, advise you about treatment options.