Prostate cancer: diagnosis and treatment

What are the symptoms of prostate cancer and when should medical action be taken?

CREDIT: This is an edited version of an article that originally appeared on Mayo Clinic

Prostate cancer occurs in the prostate which is a small, walnut-shaped, gland in males that produces the seminal fluid that nourishes and transports sperm.

Prostate cancer is one of the most common types of cancer. Many prostate cancers grow slowly, and are confined to the prostate gland, where they may not cause serious harm. However, while some types of prostate cancer grow slowly and may need minimal or even no treatment, other types are aggressive and can spread quickly. Prostate cancer that’s detected early — when it’s still confined to the prostate gland — has the best chance for successful treatment.

Symptoms

Prostate cancer may cause no signs or symptoms in its early stages. Prostate cancer that’s more advanced may cause signs and symptoms such as:

• Trouble urinating.
• Decreased force in the stream of urine.
• Blood in the urine.
• Blood in the semen.
• Bone pain.
• Losing weight without trying.
• Erectile dysfunction.

When to see a doctor

Make an appointment with your doctor if you have any persistent signs or symptoms that worry you.