Problems With Urination Alone Do Not Signal Prostate Cancer: Other Signs To Consider

The prostate is a small gland located in the male reproductive system, situated just below the bladder and surrounding the urethra. It helps in the production of seminal fluid that nourishes and transports sperm during ejaculation.

The prostate gland is not free of health risks. Prostate cancer is a potentially life-threatening malignancy that can lead to urinary symptoms. However, that’s not the only complication it causes. Speaking with the OnlyMyHealth team, Dr Jyothi Jonnadula, MBBS, MD (Radiation Oncology), FAGE, Consultant Radiation Oncologist, Kamineni Hospitals, LB Nagar, shares other common symptoms to watch out for. 

Understanding Prostate Cancer And Its Risk Factors

Prostate cancer is a type of cancer that develops in the prostate gland and occurs when cells in the prostate gland grow uncontrollably, forming tumours that can potentially spread to other parts of the body. P

Prostate cancer is one of the most common types of cancer in men, and its progression and treatment options can vary widely depending on factors such as the stage of the cancer and the individual's overall health. 

Also Read: The Vitamin That Can Reduce Your Risk Of Prostate Cancer: How To Get Optimum Levels

A research article published in the Journal Frontiers of Public Health says prostate cancer accounted for an estimated 14 lakh new cancer cases and 3.75 lakh deaths in 2020. In India, prostate cancer cases for the periods 2010, 2015, and 2020 were estimated as 26,120, 28,079, and 30,185, respectively, as per data published in the Indian Journal of Urology (IJU).

Dr Jonnadula says, “The most important unavoidable risk factor of prostate cancer is age,” adding that it is rarely diagnosed before 40 years. “It is a disease of elderly with a peak rise in the sixth and seventh decade and also occurs in men with family history of prostate cancer, who were diagnosed at less than 65 years of age,” he says.

Common Urinary Problems Associated With Prostate Cancer

Prostate cancer does not cause any symptoms, particularly in the early stage, says the doctor. 

But he warns against a few common problems that may occur. This include:

• Frequent urination
• Dribbling of urine
• Urge to urinate
• Urine retention
• Difficulty in maintaining a steady stream of urine
• Excessive urination during nights

As per the doctor, none of these symptoms are characteristic of prostate cancer alone, rather they are more often seen in benign conditions like prostate hyperplasia (BPH).

Other Common Signs To Consider

Non-urinary symptoms are usually seen in advanced stages of disease, according to Dr Jonnadula. Symptoms include: 

• Erectile Dysfunction (ED) 
• Weight loss
• Pain due to pathologic fracture (due to bone metastases)
• Weakness or back pain due to spinal cord compression
• Fatigue due to anaemia

How To Test For Prostate Cancer

Here’s how you can test for prostate cancer:

Digital Rectal Examination

A medical procedure involves the insertion of a lubricated finger by a healthcare professional into the rectum to assess the prostate gland for any irregularities.

Prostate-Specific Antigen Test

This blood examination gauges a protein manufactured by the prostate gland. Elevated prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels might indicate prostate cancer, although they could also arise from other conditions like an enlarged prostate or inflammation.

Biopsy

Should the DRE or PSA tests reveal any abnormalities, a biopsy might be conducted to investigate the potential presence of cancer.

Diagnostic Tests

Various assessments, such as CT scans, MRIs, or bone scans, as directed by medical experts, may be utilised to ascertain the scope of the cancer.

Bottomline

Urinary symptoms alone do not signal prostate cancer. It can be a sign of BPH. The key is to keep a look out for other symptoms and to get tested at the earliest. In case of cancer diagnosis, getting in touch with a healthcare professional can help decide on a personalised treatment plan.