Prostate cancer is a low-risk type of cancer that is usually slow-growing and limitedly aggressive. It is often diagnosed late because it does not cause symptoms in the early stages. As the disease progresses, serious complications such as weakness, anemia, bone pain, paralysis due to metastasis to the spinal cord, and kidney failure due to obstruction of the urinary tract may develop.
Therefore, it is critical for men to be screened for prostate cancer regularly for early diagnosis and treatment. The earlier the disease is detected, the higher the likelihood of responding to treatment and the higher the survival rate.
What is prostate cancer?
Prostate cancer is a type of cancer that occurs when cells in the prostate gland, which is the walnut-sized gland that produces seminal fluid in men, grow abnormally and uncontrollably. This type of cancer only occurs in men and commonly presents with symptoms such as frequent urination, decreased urine flow, difficulty urinating, pain, and a burning sensation.
Generally, old age is the most common cause of prostate cancer and is more commonly diagnosed in men over the age of 50. In addition, genetic predisposition and obesity are also among the risk factors. The most critical element for the success of the treatment process in prostate cancer is early diagnosis.
What are the symptoms of prostate cancer?
Prostate cancer symptoms include:
- Pain and burning sensation while urinating
- Slow or weak urine stream and difficulty urinating
- Need to urinate more frequently
- Blood in the urine (hematuria)
- Pain during ejaculation and blood in semen
- Pain in the lower pelvic area
- Erectile dysfunction
- Urinary incontinence
- Pain in the hips, back, chest, or bones
- Weight loss
- Fatigue
- Nausea and vomiting
How is prostate cancer treated?
In cases of early-stage prostate cancer, regular follow-up may be recommended instead of direct treatment. However, one of the most common and effective treatments for prostate cancer is surgery. Surgical options include robotic, laparoscopic, and open surgery; the method used depends on the patient’s condition. The aim of surgery is to completely remove the prostate.
Laparoscopic surgery is generally preferred for early-stage prostate cancer. Similarly, early-stage radiation therapy (radiotherapy) may also be an effective option for some patients. Laparoscopic surgery offers patients a more comfortable surgical experience and provides high success rates in cancer control.
The fact that the surgery is incision-free also increases patient satisfaction in terms of cosmetics. Current treatment and diagnostic developments in prostate cancer make this disease less fearful.