Understanding Prostate Cancer:
Prostate cancer is the second most common cancer among American men. It begins when cells in the prostate gland — a small organ located below the bladder — start to grow uncontrollably. In many cases, prostate cancer grows slowly. Studies have shown that many older men who passed away from other causes unknowingly had prostate cancer.
Here’s what you need to know about prostate cancer, its signs, risks, detection methods, and how to take charge of your health.
Why Choose MyMichigan Health
At MyMichigan Health’s Pardee Cancer Center, accredited by the American College of Surgeons, we’re committed to providing world-class care close to home. Here’s what sets us apart:
- Expert team: Our specialists meet regularly in multidisciplinary conferences to create personalized treatment plans.
- Cutting-edge treatments: From advanced diagnostics to innovative therapies, we offer the latest options.
- Compassionate support: We’re with you every step of the way, offering hope and guidance from diagnosis through recovery.
Our treatment options include:
- Chemotherapy: Drugs that target and destroy cancer cells.
- Hormone Therapy: Medications or procedures to block hormones that fuel cancer growth.
- Surgery:
- Radical prostatectomy: Removes the entire prostate and nearby tissue.
- Orchiectomy: Removes the testicles to reduce hormone production.
- TURP: Relieves urinary symptoms by removing part of the prostate.
- Radiation Therapy:
- External beam radiation (like IMRT or 3D conformal) to precisely target cancer.
- Internal radiation (brachytherapy) using prostate seed implants.
- UroNav Fusion Biopsy: Combines MRI and ultrasound for a highly accurate prostate map.
- Active Surveillance: For slow-growing cancers, we monitor closely without immediate treatment, stepping in if needed.
Your doctor will work with you to choose the best approach based on your cancer’s stage, your health, and your preferences.
Signs and Symptoms
Early-stage prostate cancer often causes no symptoms, which is why many cases go undetected until the cancer has spread. When symptoms do appear, they may include:
- Pelvic discomfort: A dull ache in the lower pelvis.
- Urinary changes:
- Feeling an urgent need to urinate or that your bladder isn’t fully empty.
- Trouble starting urination or a weak, stop-and-go urine stream.
- Pain or burning during urination.
- Waking up frequently at night to urinate.
- Blood in urine or semen
- Painful ejaculation
- Persistent pain in the lower back, hips, or upper thighs.
- Unexplained weight loss or loss of appetite.
If you experience any of these symptoms, don’t panic—but do talk to your doctor promptly. Early action can make a big difference.
Who's at Risk?
Certain factors can increase your likelihood of developing prostate cancer. Knowing your risk can help you and your doctor make informed decisions about screenings and prevention.
- Age: Risk rises with age; about 75% of cases are diagnosed in men over 65.
- Race: African-American men have a higher risk and tend to develop more aggressive forms of the disease.
- Family History: A father, brother, or close relative with prostate cancer increases your risk.
- Diet: Diets high in fat may be linked to increased risk, possibly due to higher testosterone levels that fuel cancer growth.
While you can’t change your age or genetics, you can take steps to lower your risk through diet and lifestyle changes—more on that below.
Early Detection Saves Lives
Since prostate cancer often grows silently, regular screenings are your best defense. The American Cancer Society recommends that men discuss screening with their doctor starting at:
- Age 50 for men at average risk with a life expectancy of at least 10 years.
- Age 45 for African-American men or those with a father or brother diagnosed with prostate cancer.
Screening tests include:
- Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) Test: A simple blood test measures PSA, a protein made by the prostate. Higher levels may signal cancer, infection, or other prostate issues.
- Digital Rectal Exam (DRE): Your doctor gently checks the prostate through the rectum to feel for lumps or irregularities.
If these tests suggest a problem, your doctor may recommend:
- Transrectal Ultrasound: Uses sound waves to create a detailed image of the prostate.
- Biopsy: A small tissue sample is taken from the prostate to check for cancer cells.
If cancer is confirmed, additional tests like a CT scan or bone scan can show whether it has spread, helping guide treatment.
Reducing Your Risk
- Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and fiber
- Limit high-fat foods and processed meats
- Exercise regularly, aiming for 30 minutes most days
- See your doctor regularly for checkups and screenings
Small changes add up, and they can help you feel your best while potentially slowing cancer progression.
Take Control of Your Health
Prostate cancer may be common, but it’s also highly manageable with early detection and personalized care. Talk to your doctor about your risk, get screened regularly, and adopt healthy habits to protect yourself. At MyMichigan Health’s Pardee Cancer Center, we’re here to provide expert care and unwavering support every step of the way.
Have questions or ready to schedule a screening? Contact us today to start your journey to better health.
