According to the American Cancer Society, prostate cancer is the most common cancer in American men, alongside skin cancer. Approximately 1 in 8 men will be diagnosed with this type of cancer during their lifetime. Luckily, most men do not die from this type of cancer due to early diagnosis and treatment. The prevalence of this disease makes knowing the warning signs and risk factors of prostate cancer pertinent in men of all ages.
Warning Signs Of Prostate Cancer
- Complications During Urination Or Ejaculation
One of the most common warning signs of prostate cancer is experiencing complications during urination or ejaculation. Should you be experiencing the following symptoms, it is recommended to make an appointment with your urologist:
- Painful ejaculation
- Decreased volume of ejaculation
- Erectile dysfunction or the inability to keep an erection
- Blood in the semen
It is important to keep in mind that these symptoms may be due to other underlying health issues, but it’s better to be safe than sorry!
- Increased Need For Urination
Generally, the normal amount of times to urinate per day is roughly between 6 to 7 times in a 24-hour period. Those with this cancer may feel the urge to urinate more frequently.
In addition to an increased need for urination, some may also experience weak, slow, or interrupted urine flow.
- Dull, Deep Pain, Or Stiffness In Lower Body
In more severe cases of prostate cancer, some may notice a dull, deep, or stiff sensation in their legs, lower back, feet, hips, and sometimes in their chest. In most cases, people receive a diagnosis before reaching this point in prostate cancer symptoms.
- Weight Loss
Advanced cases may cause weight loss due to a loss of appetite or a change in the way your body uses energy. In addition to weight loss, some may experience fatigue or extreme tiredness even after getting adequate rest.
Risk Factors Of Prostate Cancer
- Age
According to the Prostate Cancer Foundation, as men age, their risk increases. About 60% of prostate cancer is diagnosed in men over age 65. As the years pass, getting prostate screenings and ensuring you are leading a healthy lifestyle becomes increasingly important.
- Race
The American Cancer Society suggests prostate cancer develops at a higher rate in African American men. Additionally, in those of African descent, the age at which they are diagnosed with prostate cancer is lower than the average age of diagnosis when compared to other races.
- Eating Habits
UCSF Health found in a case-control study that there was a 115% increase in local prostate cancer for those consuming higher-calorie diets that consisted of more than 2,439 calories a day compared to those consuming a lower-calorie diet of fewer than 1,322 calories a day. For prostate health, try a diet that includes fruits and vegetables, is high in fiber, low in fat, and limited in sugars.
- Family History
Out of all the major cancers, this cancer is among the most heritable, with 58% of prostate cancer being driven by genetic factors. Suppose someone in your family has been diagnosed with prostate cancer. In that case, it is important to ensure you are visiting your urologist regularly to get prostate screenings and ensure a healthy male reproductive system.
Although there is no way to eliminate the risk, there are things you can do to lower your risk. Regular prostate screenings, exercising, eating a nutritious diet, and smoking cessation are great places to start. To diagnose and treat any common problem related to the male reproductive system, including prostate cancer, schedule an appointment with one of our providers. Our team at Alliance Urology has years of experience treating issues with expertise and top-notch levels of care. For any questions or inquiries, please call our office in Greensboro at (336) 274-1114.
