As stated by the National Cancer Institute, there will be an estimated 200,000 new cases of prostate cancer diagnosed in 2010. Prostate cancer is the second most common cancer diagnosed in men in the United States. There are several early signs of prostate cancer. It is important for men to be familiar with these signs and symptoms so they can seek medical advice quickly if symptoms develop.
Enlarged Prostate
The initial and most obvious sign of prostate cancer is an enlarged prostate. The prostate is located at the base of the bladder and becomes enlarged as the tumor grows. An enlarged prostate can be detected by a doctor on a routine physical that includes a digital rectal exam. A doctor can examine the size and consistency of the prostate through the digital rectal exam. The prostate should feel small and firm. If any lumps or sharp edges are present, prostate cancer may be suspected, according the the American Cancer Society. Sometimes prostate cancer may be present without any physical symptoms, making the digital rectal exam a very important early screening test.
Urinary Symptoms
Other signs of prostate cancer involve the urinary system. As the cancer grows it causes the prostate to press on the neck of the bladder. This pressure on the bladder creates multiple problems with urination. According to the Mayo Clinic, these symptoms can include trouble initiating urination, weak stream of urine, urgent need to urinate, frequent urination at night, blood in the urine, pain or burning during urination and feeling of inadequate emptying after urination. These symptoms may begin slowly over time and go unnoticed initially. Therefore it is important for men to be familiar with their normal urinary habits so it will be easy to detect a change.
Pelvic Discomfort
Pelvic discomfort is another early sign of prostate cancer. According to the National Cancer Institute, this can include pain that begins in the pelvis but may radiate to the low back, hips or upper thighs. This discomfort may sometimes be described as bone pain in the pelvic area. The discomfort may be accompanied by swelling in the legs and thighs.
Elevated Prostate-Specific Antigen
A final sign of prostate cancer is an elevated prostate-specific antigen level, or PSA. The PSA test is a blood test that gives doctors some insight about the health of the prostate. An enlarged or inflamed prostate secretes more PSA than a normal-size prostate, as stated by the National Cancer Institute. The prostate may be enlarged due to non-cancerous inflammation or it may be enlarged due to the formation of a cancerous tumor. While an elevated PSA level alone cannot diagnose prostate cancer, it may be a sign of prostate cancer when combined with other symptoms. It is important to contact a doctor if symptoms of an enlarged prostate develop.
