June 2008 Health Focus
Prostate Cancer

In the early stages, Prostate Cancer often causes no symptoms for many years. As a matter of fact, these cancers frequently are first detected by an abnormality on a blood test (the PSA) or as a hard nodule (lump) on a prostate gland. Usually, the doctor first feels the nodule during a routine digital (done with the finger) rectal examination. The prostate gland is located immediately in front of the rectum. As the cancer enlarges and presses on the urethra, the flow of urine diminishes and urination becomes more difficult. Patients may also experience burning with urination or blood in the urine. As the tumor continues to grow, it can completely block the flow of urine, resulting in a painfully obstructed and enlarged urinary bladder.

In the later stages, Prostate Cancer can spread locally into the surrounding tissue or the nearby lymph nodes, called the pelvic nodes. The cancer then can spread farther (metastasize) to other areas of the body. Prostate Cancer usually metastasizes first to the lower spine or the pelvic bones (the bones connecting the lower spine to the hips), thereby causing back or pelvic pain. The cancer can then spread to the liver which can cause pain in the abdomen or jaundice (yellow color of the skin) in rare instances. Mestastases to the lungs can cause chest pain and coughing.

prostate cancer Prostate Cancer symptoms do not usually appear until the disease has spread. However, there are symptoms of Prostate Cancer to watch out for, especially problems with urination. As Prostate Cancer advances, it contricts the urethra causing difficulties in urination. Difficulties with urination are a common prostate cancer symptom.

Prostate Cancer Symptoms: