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Conditions

Cancer care · Urology

Prostate cancer

Understand the assessment and care choices so you can prepare for a conversation with your medical team.

Editorial publication · Medical review pending.

Understand

This cancer develops from cells in the prostate, a gland below the bladder. It differs from benign prostate enlargement, although both conditions can occur together.

Possible symptoms

There may be no symptoms at first. Difficulty urinating or blood in the urine can occur, but also have other causes: these signs alone do not establish a cancer diagnosis.

Causes and associated factors

Risk increases with age. Family history and certain genetic predispositions, including BRCA2, also play a role. Tell your doctor about cancers in your family to discuss your situation.

Diagnosis

Assessment considers your medical history and a physical examination. A raised PSA does not prove cancer; a normal result does not exclude it. Examination of prostate tissue samples can confirm the diagnosis.

Tests

An MRI may help decide whether biopsies are needed. After confirmation, the team selects tests to assess any spread: CT, MRI, PET or a bone scan depending on the case. Not everyone needs all these tests.

Course of the condition

Some forms grow slowly; others are more aggressive. Stage describes the extent of the cancer, while grade provides information about the cells examined. Together with PSA and your health, these findings guide care.

Care options

Structured active surveillance may suit some localised cancers. Depending on the assessment, surgery, radiotherapy or medicines may be discussed. Choices take account of your preferences and possible effects on continence, sexual function and fertility. Ongoing follow-up is needed.

When to consult

See a doctor if urinary symptoms appear, persist or change, or if you are concerned about your risk. Without symptoms, discuss the decision to have a PSA test with your doctor.

Urgent help

Unable to urinate: seek medical help immediately. With a current or past cancer, new leg weakness, difficulty walking or loss of bladder or bowel control needs emergency assessment, even without back pain.

Questions for your doctor

  • What do my stage and grade mean?
  • Why do you suggest this monitoring or treatment?
  • Which alternatives fit my situation?
  • What are the effects on continence, sexual function and fertility?
  • What follow-up is planned, and who should I contact if my condition changes?

Continue reading

A procedure linked to a condition does not establish an indication for your individual situation.

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