First Signs of Prostate Cancer

Prostate cancer is a serious condition that affects millions of men around the world. But if detected early enough, prostate cancer can be treated fairly easily.

"One in eight men in America will be diagnosed with prostate cancer. It is one of the more treatable forms of cancer if it's caught early, but it's important for men to get screened and be aware of potential warning signs, so they can seek medical attention if needed," says Michael Lasser, M.D., FACS, medical director of Robotic Surgery at JFK University Medical Center.

Early Signs of Prostate Cancer

Prostate cancer doesn't usually cause noticeable symptoms in its earliest stages. "While early stage prostate cancer is often asymptomatic, there are some signs of prostate and urinary health to be mindful of," says Emad Rizkala, M.D., urologist at Bayshore Medical Center.

Urinary symptoms may include:

• Difficulty urinating or an increased need to urinate
• Weak or interrupted flow of urine
• Pain in the back, hips, pelvis or bones
• Pain or burning sensation during urination or ejaculation
• Blood in urine
• Sudden erectile dysfunction

"Of course, urinary symptoms don't mean you have prostate cancer. But it's important to be aware of these signs and talk to your doctor about any of them," says Dr. Rizkala.

Screening for Prostate Cancer

Because of screening, prostate cancer is often caught early and is very survivable with a low risk of death up to 15 years after diagnosis. Men should begin annual screenings for prostate cancer at age 50—and earlier in those who are considered high risk for the disease.

Men who are at an increased risk of prostate cancer should begin screenings at age 40. Risk factors include:

• African American decent
• Family history of prostate cancer
• Family history of advanced pancreatic, ovarian or breast cancers (especially if BRCA1 or BRCA2 genes are positive)

Screening is a combination of a simple blood test to measure the level of the prostate specific antigen (PSA) and a digital rectal exam.

A PSA blood test measures the level of PSA in the blood. A high level of PSA indicates a potential issue with the prostate, oftentimes an abnormal growth or other noncancerous issues of the prostate. If there is an elevated PSA, doctors will do a variety of tests, including a biopsy, to determine if there is a risk of prostate cancer.

A digital rectal exam is a procedure used to assess the size, shape and general condition of the prostate. During the examination, a doctor will insert a gloved, lubricated finger into the rectum to feel the back wall of the prostate gland for any changes such as enlargement, tenderness or lumps.

Prostate cancer is a risk for all men as they get older, but with early detection and advanced technology, it is treatable.

"Don’t wait for symptoms to get screened. If you are 50 or older, or you are at an increased risk of prostate cancer, talk to your doctor about screening options," says Dr. Lasser.

Next Steps & Resources:

• Meet our sources: Michael Lasser, M.D. FACS, and Emad Rizkala, M.D.
• To find a urologist near you, call 800-822-8905 or visit our website.
• Learn more about urology services at Hackensack Meridian Health.
• Schedule a screening for prostate cancer.