The Symptoms of Prostate Cancer and Why Early Diagnosis Saves Lives

Prostate cancer is one of the most frequently seen types of cancer in men and is a disease that can be treated successfully when diagnosed at an early stage. This disease, which is seen more frequently particularly in men over the age of 50, can progress for a long time without giving symptoms. For this reason early diagnosis not only extends survival time but also protects the patient's quality of life.

What Is Prostate Cancer?

The prostate is a walnut-sized gland belonging to the male reproductive system, located just below the bladder and producing the fluid part of semen. Prostate cancer emerges with the abnormal multiplication of the cells in this gland. While some of its types follow a slow course, some can spread rapidly. The aggressiveness of the cancer, its stage at the moment of diagnosis and the treatment method applied determine the course of the disease.

What Are the Symptoms of Prostate Cancer?

In the early stages of prostate cancer an obvious symptom is generally not seen. Because this situation can cause diagnosis to be delayed, early screening tests are of great importance. However, in the advancing stages the following symptoms may emerge:

Urination Complaints

• Frequent urination (particularly at night)
• Difficulty urinating or a weakening of the flow
• A burning sensation during urination
• Urinary incontinence

Bloody Fluids

• Blood seen in the urine or semen (haematuria or haematospermia)

Sexual Dysfunctions

• Erection problems
• Painful ejaculation
• Loss of libido

Signs of Spread

• Persistent bone pain in the hip, back or thigh
• Weight loss and loss of appetite
• Fatigue and weakness

These symptoms may not always be related to cancer, but if these complaints are present, particularly in men over the age of 50, it is essential to consult a urology specialist.

Why Does Early Diagnosis Save Lives?

When prostate cancer is detected at an early stage it is in a localised state; that is, the cancer has not spread outside the prostate gland. With methods such as surgery, radiotherapy or active surveillance applied at this stage, a high rate of success is achieved.

The Advantages Provided by Early Diagnosis:

• There are more treatment options.
• The risk of complications is lower.
• Quality of life after surgery is better preserved.
• The risk of metastasis is so low as to be almost non-existent.
• The complete cure rate is above 90%.

Thanks to early diagnosis, most patients can continue their lives normally. Particularly with minimally invasive methods such as robotic surgery, treatment can be provided with side effects reduced to a minimum level.

Which Tests Are Used in the Diagnosis of Prostate Cancer?

A few different tests are used for the diagnosis of prostate cancer. Regular screening in particular provides the possibility of making a diagnosis before symptoms emerge.

1. The PSA test (prostate specific antigen)
It measures the level of a protein secreted from the prostate gland in the blood. A high PSA level may be a sign of prostate cancer, benign prostatic hyperplasia or inflammation of the prostate. However, a diagnosis is not made with a high PSA alone; this is a warning sign.

2. Digital rectal examination (DRE)
In this examination performed by a urology specialist, the size, firmness and irregular structure of the prostate gland are assessed.

3. Prostate MRI and multiparametric imaging
Suspicious areas are identified with imaging techniques and a targeted biopsy can be performed. This lowers the rate of unnecessary biopsy.

4. Prostate biopsy
In a suspicious situation, small tissue samples are taken from the prostate and a pathological examination is performed. The type, stage and state of spread of the cancer become clear as a result of this examination.

Who Is at Risk?

The risk of prostate cancer is higher in certain groups. Screening tests at an earlier age are recommended in these people.

• All men aged 50 and over
• Those with a family history (father, brother) of prostate cancer
• Individuals of African-American origin
• Those carrying genetic mutations such as BRCA1 and BRCA2
• Individuals with a high testosterone level

Can Prostate Cancer Be Prevented?

As with every type of cancer, it is not possible to prevent prostate cancer completely. However, the risk can be reduced with certain lifestyle changes:

• A diet low in red meat and saturated fat, weighted towards vegetables and fruit
• Regular physical activity
• Avoiding obesity
• Limiting the use of cigarettes and alcohol
• Not neglecting annual urological examinations