Prostate cancer is the most common non-skin cancer in men. It is fraught with both physical and psychological symptomatology. The last few years have seen a rise in the incidence and prevalence of prostate cancer worldwide, making it the most common non-skin cancer in men today.
It’s strongly advised to visit the GP should any of these symptoms occur.
The sooner any type of cancer is discovered by a healthcare professional, the higher the chances of living longer.
Cancers happen when the cell’s DNA has multiple mutations which then lead to cells growing at an uncontrollable rate, which then amasses to a cancerous tumour.
Cancer Net – an oncologist-approved cancer information website (an oncologist is a branch of medicine that deals with the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of cancer) – states there are two basic types of genetic mutations.
As men get older their prostate gland enlarges. It isn’t normally cancer but instead a condition called benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), notes the charity. Benign prostatic hyperplasia is the medical term for an enlarged prostate.
The symptoms are similar because BPH is also caused by increased pressure on the tube that carries urine from the bladder out of the penis.
However, if a person recognises any of the symptoms that could be caused by prostate cancer, a person should visit their GP, advised the NHS.
Who is at risk?
It is not clear what causes prostate cancer, but certain factors may raise a person’s risk of developing the disease.
According to Cancer Research UK, age is a significant risk factor. The disease is most common in men aged 75 to 79 years.
According to the NHS, there’s no single, definitive test for prostate cancer. “Your GP will discuss the pros and cons of the various tests with you to try to avoid unnecessary anxiety,” the health body explained.