Prostate cancer signs in men
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Prostate Cancer Signs in Men
Early Detection and Screening: Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) and Digital Rectal Exam (DRE)
Prostate cancer often goes unnoticed in its early stages because it typically does not cause pain or noticeable symptoms. Many men are diagnosed through routine health screenings, such as a blood test for prostate-specific antigen (PSA) or a digital rectal exam (DRE) . PSA is a protease produced by the prostate, and elevated levels can indicate prostate cancer, although they can also be elevated in benign conditions like benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and prostatitis . The American Cancer Society recommends that men over 50 undergo both PSA testing and DRE for early detection.
Common Symptoms: Urinary and Sexual Dysfunction
As prostate cancer progresses, it can cause a variety of symptoms primarily related to urinary and sexual function. Men may experience difficulty starting or stopping urine flow, a feeling of incomplete bladder emptying, blood in the urine or semen, and pain during ejaculation . These symptoms overlap significantly with other genitourinary conditions, making it challenging to diagnose based solely on symptoms .
Advanced Symptoms: Bone Pain and Bladder Outlet Obstruction
In more advanced stages, prostate cancer can present with symptoms such as unexplained bone pain, particularly in the back, due to vertebral metastases, and bladder outlet obstruction . Acute urinary retention, bilateral hydronephrosis, and spinal cord compression are less common but serious symptoms that may indicate advanced disease.
Psychological and Cultural Factors: Impact on Help-Seeking Behavior
Men's cultural beliefs and psychological factors significantly influence their help-seeking behavior. Many men delay seeking medical help due to the belief that symptoms like urinary dribbling and hesitancy are normal signs of aging or transient issues. Additionally, symptoms related to sexual dysfunction, such as impotence and ejaculation problems, are often considered private and embarrassing, further delaying medical consultation .
Conclusion
Prostate cancer is a prevalent malignancy in men, particularly in those over 50. Early detection through PSA testing and DRE is crucial, although these tests are not without limitations. Symptoms often overlap with benign conditions, complicating diagnosis. Understanding the psychological and cultural factors that influence men's help-seeking behavior is essential for improving early detection and treatment outcomes.
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