Possibia

Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers in men worldwide. The good news is that early detection can save lives. While the risk increases with age, it’s never too early to start thinking about your health. Even if you don’t feel any symptoms, being aware of the risks and staying on top of things can make a huge difference.

What is prostate cancer?

Prostate cancer starts in the prostate, a small gland that helps produce semen. At first, it often doesn't cause any symptoms, so many men don’t know they have it. It's the most common type of cancer in men. If left untreated, it can cause problems with urination and pain in the lower back or hips, but catching it early can make treatment much easier and more effective.

Common symptoms of prostate cancer

Prostate cancer often has no symptoms in the early stages, but as it grows, you might notice:

Weak or slow urine flow
Difficulty urinating or feeling like you can't fully empty your bladder
Frequent urination, especially at night
Pain in the lower back, hips, or pelvis
Blood in urine or semen

When should you see a doctor?

Most men experience an enlarged prostate as they get older, which can mean more frequent trips to the bathroom However, if you notice any of the following for more than three weeks, it’s a good idea to check in with your doctor

Notice a weak or slow urine stream
Feel like you need to pee often but struggle to empty your bladder
Find your sleep disrupted because you’re waking up to go to the bathroom too often

Riskfactors

Some risk factors are beyond our control, like family history and age. However, certain lifestyle choices can also affect your risk.

Age - The risk increases as you get older, especially after 50.
Family History - If your father or brother had prostate cancer, your risk may be higher.
Previous cancer diagnosis
Diet and lifestyle - It seems that men who eat a lot of red meat, fatty foods, and few fruits and vegetables have a slightly higher risk of developing prostate cancer.

Prevention

While we can’t guarantee cancer won’t happen, there are some ways to reduce your risk:

Keep a healthy weight – Staying in shape helps lower your risk of serious health issues, including cancer.
Stay active – Whether it’s the gym, a sport, or just daily movement, keeping your body moving is key to long-term health.
Protect yourself at work – If you work with chemicals, paints, metals, or in areas with heavy pollution, follow safety guidelines to reduce exposure to harmful substances.
Skip the cigarettes – Smoking increases cancer risk, so if you don’t smoke, don’t start. If you do, quitting is one of the best things you can do for your health!

How do I know if it’s cancer?

Prostate cancer doesn’t always cause symptoms right away, but if you start noticing any of these, it's important to see a doctor. Prostate cancer is diagnosed through several methods:

Tissue samples taken from the prostate to check for cancer cells.
A physical exam to look for signs of prostate issues.
Blood tests to check for prostate-specific markers.
Imaging studies to determine if the cancer has spread.

Treatment

The most common treatment options for prostate cancer are:

Surgery (Radical Prostatectomy) – Removal of the prostate gland.
Radiation Therapy – High-energy rays to target cancer cells.
Hormone Therapy – Reduces testosterone to slow cancer growth.
Chemotherapy – Uses drugs to kill cancer cells, often for advanced cancer.
Immunotherapy – Boosts the immune system to fight cancer.
Active Surveillance – Monitoring the cancer closely without immediate treatment for low-risk cases.

Clinical trials

There are currently clinical trials investigating potential treatments for prostate cancer. You can find and contact them here.

Prognosis

Prostate cancer has a very positive outlook, especially when detected early. If found early, the 5-year survival rate is very high. For localized cancer, treatments are highly effective. Even if the cancer spreads, new treatments can help extend life and manage symptoms. Most men with prostate cancer live for many years, and even if it returns, there are treatment options to keep it under control.

Final thoughts

Taking your health seriously and understanding the risks of prostate cancer is key. Regular check-ups and being proactive about your health can help catch issues early, making treatment easier and more effective. Don’t wait—if you notice anything unusual or have concerns, reach out to your doctor. Your health matters, and early detection saves lives.

Source

https://kreftforeningen.no/om-kreft/kreftformer/prostatakreft/

Understanding Prostate Cancer: A Guide for Patients