Prostate cancer is one of the most frequently diagnosed cancers in men, particularly those over age 50. It begins in the prostate, a small gland located just below the bladder, and often grows slowly. In fact, many men may live for years with early-stage prostate cancer and never know it’s there.
That’s part of what makes this condition challenging. It can develop quietly, without triggering any of the most common signs of prostate cancer, until it’s more advanced.
Certain symptoms may indicate something is wrong.
While these signs can also be caused by other conditions, such as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) or prostatitis, they should not be ignored.
8 Most Common Signs of Prostate Cancer
1. Frequent urination, especially at night
One of the earliest changes men might experience is the need to urinate more frequently, especially during the night. This symptom, called nocturia, happens when the prostate begins to enlarge or press against the bladder or urethra.
Nocturia is not exclusive to cancer, but it’s a common feature of prostate-related changes.
If you’re finding yourself getting up multiple times at night to urinate, it’s worth mentioning to your doctor.
2. Difficulty starting or maintaining urination
Another early symptom is difficulty starting urination or experiencing a weak or interrupted urine stream. The flow may be slower than usual or stop and start several times. This occurs because the urethra, which carries urine out of the body, passes through the center of the prostate. As the gland changes, it can constrict this pathway, making it harder to urinate.
3. Elevated PSA levels on a blood test
Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) is a protein made by the prostate and measured with a simple blood test. A higher-than-normal PSA level doesn’t automatically mean cancer. But, it can signal that something is affecting the prostate. Since early-stage prostate cancer often has no symptoms, an elevated PSA may be one of the first signs your doctor notices.
4. Blood in urine or semen
A more concerning sign is the presence of blood in urine or semen. Even small amounts should prompt medical attention. Blood in semen can sometimes go unnoticed, but it may appear as a pinkish tint or reddish streaks. This indicates there is advanced inflammation, trauma, or cancer affecting the surrounding tissues.
5. Erectile dysfunction (ED)
Erectile dysfunction can also occur with prostate cancer. This symptom may develop as cancer interferes with the nerves and blood vessels involved in the erection process. Many factors other than cancer can also cause ED, but this change shouldn’t be ignored.
6. Pain in the lower back, hips, or thighs
As prostate cancer progresses, it may begin to affect areas outside the prostate gland. One of the more common signs of spread is persistent pain or stiffness in the lower back, hips, or upper thighs. These areas are common sites for prostate cancer to spread to the bones or metastasize.
7. Unexplained weight loss and fatigue
Systemic symptoms like unexplained weight loss and persistent tiredness may appear. Losing weight without trying or feeling extremely tired, regardless of sleep or rest, should prompt a visit to your doctor.
8. The silent threat: no symptoms at all
One of the most important things to understand is that prostate cancer may cause no symptoms at all in its early stages. This is often referred to as the silent phase of the disease. It is also why regular screening is so important, even if you feel completely healthy.
When the cancer is caught early, before it has spread beyond the prostate, treatment is usually more effective. Relying on the most common symptoms of prostate cancer alone can lead to a late-stage diagnosis. Treatment becomes more complex, and outcomes are less favorable.
Schedule Your Prostate Cancer Screening
Screening is typically recommended beginning at age 50 for most men or around age 45 for men at higher risk, including:
- Men with a family history of prostate cancer
- African American men,
If you’re due for screening or if you’ve noticed any symptoms, it’s important to talk to your doctor. Catching prostate problems early can lead to more effective treatment and better long-term results.
If you’ve experienced any of the most common signs of prostate cancer, don’t delay – schedule an appointment today!