Prostate Cancer
Sources consulted
This article is original patient-education content.
- WHO—Health topics A–Z(2024)
- NHS—Health A to Z(2024)
- CDC—Health topics(2024)
Based on international clinical guidelines
Overview
Prostate cancer is a disease where cells in the prostate gland grow out of control. The prostate is a small gland in men that makes fluid for semen. Most prostate cancers grow slowly and may not cause serious problems, but some can be more aggressive and spread.
Key facts
- Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers in men worldwide.
- Many prostate cancers grow slowly and may never need treatment.
- When caught early, treatment is often successful.
Yes, after skin cancer, prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men. In the UK, about 1 in 8 men will get it at some point in their lives.
It mainly affects men over 50, and the risk increases with age. Men of African-Caribbean descent and those with a family history of prostate cancer have a higher risk.
Symptoms
- Suddenly unable to urinate at all (acute urinary retention)
- Severe pain in the lower belly or back
- Blood clots in urine that make it difficult to pass water
- ⚠Blood in urine or semen that does not go away
- ⚠New, persistent pain in the back, hips, or pelvis
Common symptoms
- Needing to urinate more often, especially at night
- Difficulty starting or stopping urination
- A weak or interrupted urine stream
- Pain or a burning feeling when urinating
- Blood in urine or semen
- Pain in the lower back, hips, or pelvis that doesn't go away
Symptoms in children
- Prostate cancer does not affect children.
Symptoms in older adults
- Older men may have the same symptoms, but they can also be caused by an enlarged prostate (not cancer). Any new or worsening urinary symptoms should be checked by a doctor.
Causes
Main causes
- The exact cause of prostate cancer is not known. It starts when healthy cells in the prostate change and grow too fast, forming a tumour.
Risk factors
- Age – risk rises after 50
- Family history – having a father or brother with prostate cancer
- Race – men of African-Caribbean descent have a higher risk
- Obesity – may be linked to more aggressive forms
When to see a doctor
See a doctor urgently if:
- If you suddenly cannot urinate at all, call your local emergency services or go to A&E (emergency room).
- If you have severe pain in the lower back or belly.
Book a routine appointment if:
- If you have any of the common symptoms, especially if you are over 50.
- If you are concerned about your risk and want to discuss screening with your GP (family doctor).
Diagnosis
Your doctor will start by asking about your symptoms and family history. They may do a digital rectal exam (DRE) – a quick, internal examination of the prostate – and a blood test called PSA (prostate-specific antigen). If these suggest cancer, you will usually be referred to a urologist (a specialist in urinary problems).
Tests that may be done
- PSA blood test – measures a protein made by the prostate.
- Digital rectal exam (DRE) – the doctor feels the prostate through the rectum.
- Multi-parametric MRI scan – takes detailed images of the prostate.
- Biopsy – a small sample of prostate tissue is taken with a needle to check for cancer cells.
What to expect at your appointment
Diagnosis may take a few weeks. Your healthcare team will explain each step and what the results mean. If cancer is found, they will talk with you about the next steps, including treatment options.
Treatment
Treatment for prostate cancer depends on how fast the cancer is growing, whether it has spread, your age, and your overall health. Many men with slow-growing cancer may not need immediate treatment and can be monitored closely (active surveillance). Others may need treatments such as surgery, radiation, or hormone therapy. Your doctor will help you choose what is best for you.
Self-care at home
- Stay physically active – gentle exercise can help with fatigue and mood.
- Eat a balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
- Keep a healthy weight.
- Talk to your doctor before taking any supplements – some may interfere with treatment.
Medical treatments
Medical treatments may include active surveillance (regular check-ups and tests to monitor the cancer), watchful waiting (less frequent monitoring for men who are older or have other health problems), radiation therapy (using high-energy rays to kill cancer cells), hormone therapy (to lower testosterone levels that can fuel cancer growth), chemotherapy (drugs to kill fast-growing cells), and newer targeted therapies. Your specialist will discuss which options are right for your situation.
When is surgery considered?
Surgery (called a radical prostatectomy) may be recommended if the cancer is confined to the prostate and you are fit enough for an operation. This removes the entire prostate gland and some surrounding tissue.
Living with this condition
Many men live long, active lives with prostate cancer. You may need regular follow-up appointments and tests. Some treatments can cause side effects such as urinary incontinence or erectile dysfunction, but there are ways to manage these. Your healthcare team can help.
Lifestyle tips
- Stay physically active – walking, swimming, or gentle exercises can help with energy and mood.
- Talk to your partner or a trusted friend about how you are feeling – you don't have to go through this alone.
- Consider joining a support group – it can help to share experiences with others.
Diet and exercise
A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, and low in red and processed meats, may support your overall health. Regular exercise – even 20–30 minutes most days – can reduce fatigue, improve strength, and help with mood.
Mental health and emotional wellbeing
A cancer diagnosis can be upsetting. It is normal to feel anxious, worried, or sad. If these feelings last or affect your daily life, talk to your doctor or a mental health professional. You can also call a crisis helpline like Samaritans (freephone 116 123 in the UK) if you need immediate support.
Prevention
There is no sure way to prevent prostate cancer, but a healthy lifestyle – including a balanced diet, regular exercise, and maintaining a healthy weight – may help reduce your risk.
Screening programmes
Screening for prostate cancer using the PSA blood test is available but not routinely offered to all men. In the UK, men over 50 can ask their GP for a PSA test after a discussion about the benefits and risks. Talk to your doctor to decide if screening is right for you.
Complications
If left untreated
- If a fast-growing prostate cancer is not treated, it may spread to nearby tissues, bones (causing pain and fractures), lymph nodes, or other organs.
- Advanced prostate cancer can cause weight loss, fatigue, and difficulty passing urine.
Long-term outlook
The outlook for prostate cancer is often very good, especially when it is caught early. Many men with slow-growing cancer live for many years without it causing problems. Even for more aggressive cancers, treatments are improving all the time, and people can live well with the disease. Your healthcare team will help you understand what to expect based on your specific situation.
Find support
International organisations
Local organisations
- Prostate Cancer UK ↗ · United Kingdom
- American Cancer Society ↗ · United States
- Cancer Australia ↗ · Australia
Helplines
External links open third-party websites. Ruqelo Health is not responsible for external content. Listing an organisation does not imply endorsement.
Always verify with your doctor
Health guidelines vary by country and region. The information in this article is based on international clinical guidelines but may not reflect the specific guidelines, medications, or practices in your country. Always discuss your health concerns with your own doctor or healthcare provider, and refer to your local national health guidelines where available.
Important notice This information is for educational purposes only. It does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider about your specific situation. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency services immediately.