Prostate Cancer: What You Need To Know

Prostate cancer, in a country like India with its huge rural population, is one of the main causes of cancer-related deaths among men.The prostate is a small gland located below a man’s bladder. Prostate cancer begins when cells in the prostate start to grow and divide faster than normal cells.

It can spread to the bladder, travel through the bloodstream or through the lymphatic system to the bones or even to other organs in the body. The earlier it is detected, the higher the chances of effective treatment.

Complications:

Urinary incontinence is one of the most likely complications of prostate cancer.Severe pain, fractures, weakness in the arms and legs and high levels of calcium are some of the other complications, many of which can be treated with drugs.

Often prostate cancer tends to grow at a slow pace and if detected early has a good chance of being treated successfully.

Who is at risk?

Age: For men over 50 it's a good idea to go for regular check-ups which include the evaluation of the condition of the prostate as well.

Genes: Some men have a family history of prostate cancer which puts them more at risk.

Obesity: Studies have shown that prostate cancer tends to manifest itself more aggressively in obese men.

Men who experience any of these symptoms should seek immediate medical help:

• Frequent urination
• Trouble urinating or decreased force when urinating
• Swelling in the legs and discomfort in the pelvic or rectal region
• Blood in urine and semen
• Bone pain