Prostate cancer is one of the most likely cancers men can develop, second only to skin cancer. According to the American Cancer Society, one in eight American men will receive a prostate cancer diagnosis at some point in their lives.
Early symptoms, if they appear at all, are usually mild and can be similar to dozens of other conditions, making it challenging to diagnose until later stages. That is why it is so important to pay attention to your body and get regular prostate exams as recommended. Learn more about the early signs of prostate cancer.
In the earliest stages of prostate cancer, this warning sign is the most telling. Some changes in urinary frequency or urgency are common as we age, but it is important to get an evaluation before you decide that it is just part of life.
This prostate cancer symptom can be one of the scariest, but again, it can be a sign of something benign, like a ruptured blood vessel. It is best to talk to your doctor and see what they recommend.
Erectile dysfunction can develop for many reasons. In some cases, it may be linked to advanced prostate cancer or prostate cancer treatment. If you are at risk for prostate cancer or notice new ED symptoms, talk to a medical professional before starting medication.
Other possible symptoms of prostate cancer, like fatigue, pelvic pain, and muscle weakness, can also occur with many other types of cancer or chronic conditions. If these symptoms appear suddenly, get worse quickly, or persist for longer than a few days, be sure to consult with your doctor.
While these symptoms can indicate many conditions besides cancer, knowing they may be related to your prostate health can encourage you to take action early. The best things you can do to protect yourself are to know your risk factors, get regular screenings, and watch for symptoms.
Risk factors for prostate cancer can include:
If you have one of these risk factors, it is recommended that you start visiting your doctor for prostate screenings around age 45. Otherwise, you may be told to wait until you’re 50. Talk to your doctor about your specific risk level and when they recommend you start getting prostate-specific antigen (PSA) and digital rectal exam (DRE) tests.
When you or someone you love has concerns about prostate cancer, Starling Oncology wants to be there for you. Whether you’re in the early stages of your disease or looking for clinical trials and new treatment options, we help you explore every avenue and get the care you deserve. Contact us to get started today.
