We have covered more than a few cancers in our “I Screen, You Screen” series, so we know that cancer starts as an abnormal growth of cells, and prostate cancer is just that: an abnormal growth of cells in the prostate. The prostate is a small gland found just under the bladder in men, which helps make semen. Prostate cancer is the second most common cancer in men second only to melanoma. Symptoms get more severe as the cancer grows or spreads (metastasizes). Cancer that has spread outside the prostate gland is termed metastatic cancer, stage 4 or advanced prostate cancer. 

The good news is that prostate cancer is often detected early (thanks to screening) and is very treatable.

Early symptoms include blood in the urine or pink-colored urine, blood in semen, needing to urinate more often and trouble starting to urinate.

More severe symptoms that can signal a need for more advanced testing:

• Accidental leaking of urine.
• Back pain.
• Bone pain.
• Difficulty getting an erection, called erectile dysfunction.
• Feeling very tired.
• Losing weight without trying.
• Weakness in the arms or legs.

Causes for prostate cancer are unknown, but risk factors include family history, obesity, age over 50, smoking and race/ethnicity. We don’t completely understand the higher risk for ethnic/Black men in the U.S. to develop prostate cancer, be diagnosed at later stages and progress more quickly. Certainly, more research is needed. 

Early screening is easy and starts most often around age 50. Those with family history, symptoms and people of color might discuss risks with their provider sooner. Screening tests include a simple PSA (Prostate Specific Antigen) blood test and digital exam. An abnormal PSA could detect prostate enlargement or infection as well as cancer, making it an important part of men’s health screening. If cancer is suspected, your provider will recommend further testing to determine the size and speed of cancer growth. 

Treatment for prostate cancer ranges from active surveillance termed “watch and wait” (if it is growing slowly or small) to surgery and depends on many factors. Your medical team will discuss your options and your preferences with you if you are diagnosed with prostate cancer. Again, the importance of screening cannot be understated!

If you have any of the listed symptoms, please contact your provider or attend a screening near you. There is support available, you are not alone. Resources such as The Cancer Resource Center of Western Maine are a wonderful place to gain knowledge, community and education, as well as practical items you might need during your cancer journey. It may feel as though there are many risks and toxins in our lives today, but we must be realistic about our risks and lifestyle. There is help available to make changes like quitting smoking, maintaining a healthy weight and avoiding cancer causing toxins. Please know your risks and get screened. 

I screen, you screen … we all need to screen. Screening is a cornerstone of cancer control. Cancer screening tests increase the chance of finding cancer early, when treatment is likely to work best. With some types of cancers, early and regular screening can prevent the occurrence of cancer.

Ann Morrell is a practicing Registered Nurse and Health Content Writer. Her varied 12+ years of nursing experience ensure that her content provides technical information with practical insights. The Cancer Resource Center of Western Maine is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization located at 59 Winter St, Norway. Services are free to anyone affected by cancer. Check out their website, crcofwm.org, find them on Facebook, or for more information, call 890-0329.