Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers in men, particularly after the age of fifty, and many men delay screening out of embarrassment or because there are no clear early symptoms. This article explains the symptoms, why early detection matters, and the treatment options available.
Symptoms
In the early stages prostate cancer often has no clear symptoms at all — a key reason why periodic assessment matters. When symptoms do appear, they may include:
- Difficulty starting urination, or a weak urine flow
- Needing to urinate frequently, especially at night
- A feeling that the bladder has not emptied completely
- Blood in the urine or semen (a symptom requiring prompt assessment)
- Unexplained pain in the pelvic area or lower back
It is important to note that many of these symptoms overlap with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) — a very common condition that is entirely different from cancer. Medical assessment is the only way to distinguish between them reliably.
Causes and risk factors
- Advancing age (risk increases notably after fifty)
- A family history of prostate cancer
- Other genetic and environmental factors still under ongoing study
When to see a doctor
It is generally advised to discuss periodic assessment (PSA blood test and clinical examination) with a urologist around the age of fifty, or earlier if there is a family history — with the final decision on timing and frequency resting on the treating doctor's direct assessment of each case, since recommendations vary according to individual risk factors.
Treatment options
Treatment options depend on the stage at which the disease is found, how far it has spread, and the patient's age and general health; they are determined by the specialist medical team after full assessment. The earlier the detection, the wider and simpler the treatment options tend to be.
How Town Hospital helps
At Town Hospital, the urology team provides assessment with complete privacy and respect — from laboratory testing through to diagnostic imaging where needed — so you can make your decision informed and reassured at every step.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a raised PSA result definitely mean cancer?
No. A raised PSA can be caused by many other conditions such as benign prostatic hyperplasia or inflammation. The doctor interprets the result in the context of the full assessment.
Is an enlarged prostate itself cancer?
No. Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a very common condition and entirely different from prostate cancer, despite some overlapping symptoms.
When should I start thinking about periodic screening?
Generally around the age of fifty, or earlier if there is a family history — it is best to discuss the right timing for your case with a urologist.
Is the examination painful or embarrassing?
The assessment is relatively simple and mostly begins with a blood test, and it is carried out with complete privacy and respect by the medical team.
To book an appointment or consultation with a urologist at Town Hospital in complete privacy, call 15276 or book from our website.