Diagnosis Treatments Statistics Causes Symptoms CANCER TYPES

Cancer research indicates that approximately 1 in 8 men face the risk of prostate cancer. Notably, non-Hispanic black men face a slightly higher risk, with about 6 in 10 cases occurring in men above 65 years. For those under 40, the risk is comparatively lower.

PROSTATE CANCER UNVEILED

The prostate, a walnut-shaped gland in the male reproductive system, produces fluid vital for nourishing and transporting sperm.

MALE REPRODUCTIVE TRACT

Positioned below the bladder and in front of the rectum, the prostate plays a crucial role. As men age, the gland naturally enlarges, reaching the size of a walnut in younger years and growing more prominent over time.

Prostate cancer is the most common non-skin cancer in men. It often develops slowly within the prostate gland, causing minimal disruption. While some forms of prostate cancer progress slowly and may not necessitate immediate medical intervention, others are aggressive and require prompt attention.

UNDERSTANDING TYPES OF PROSTATE CANCER

Accurate identification of the type of prostate cancer is instrumental in determining the appropriate treatment approach. It also aids in determining the cancer grade (cell characteristics under a microscope) and stage (size and extent of spread).

TYPE OF CANCER

DESCRIPTION

Acinar adenocarcinoma

It’s the most common type of cancer that develops in the cell lining of the prostate gland.

Ductal adenocarcinoma

It grows and spreads quickly compared to acinar. It develops in the cells along the ducts of the prostate gland.

Urothelial cancer

It starts in the bladder and spreads to the entire prostate gland. 

Small cell prostate cancer

It’s a type of neuroendocrine cancer that’s made up of round cells.

Squamous cell prostate cancer

They are formed from the flat cells that cover the prostate. Grow faster than their neuroendocrine counterpart.

Neuroendocrine tumours (NETs)

A rare type of cancer.

Sarcoma

A rare type of cancer

RECOGNIZING PROSTATE CANCER SYMPTOMS

Early-stage prostate cancer may manifest in various ways. While these symptoms may also be indicative of less severe conditions, it is crucial to be vigilant.

  • Urinary Symptoms: Difficulty initiating or concluding urination, blood in urine (hematuria), weak urine flow, and abnormal urinary incontinence.
  • Erectile Issues: Including blood in semen, painful ejaculation, and erectile dysfunction.

EARLY WARNING SIGNS

Early-stage prostate cancer, due to its proximity to the bladder and urethra, often leads to specific signs:

  • Frequent urges to urinate, particularly at night.
  • Burning sensation during urination.
  • Reduced velocity of urine stream.
  • Weakened bladder control

ADVANCED SYMPTOMS

Advanced prostate cancer may spread beyond the prostate, particularly to bones, lymph nodes, lungs, and liver. This stage is known as metastatic prostate cancer.

  • Bones: Pain ranging from a dull ache to sharp stabbing sensations, often in the pelvis, ribs, spine, or skull.
  • Back Pain: A potential indication of spinal cord compression warranting immediate attention.
  • Lymph Nodes: Swelling and pain in areas where cancer has spread.
  • Liver: Reduced appetite, right-sided stomach discomfort (swelling), jaundice, and itchy skin.
  • Lungs: Persistent cough, worsened at night, chest infections, breathlessness, coughing up blood, and pleural effusion.
  • Bowel: Infrequent, but may include constipation, abdominal pain, and blood in stool.

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