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Prostate Cancer

Prostate cancer is cancer of the prostate gland, a walnut-sized organ found only in men. It is located between the penis and the bladder, and surrounds the urethra. Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men in the UK, with over 40,000 new cases diagnosed every year. 

Prostate cancer differs from other cancers found in the body in the fact that small deposits of cancer within the prostate are very common and remain dormant for some time before they progress.

1 in 3 men over 50 have a small focus of prostate cancer.

Nearly all men over 80 have a focus of prostate cancer

Prostate cancer may show symptoms, but in some cases, there may be no obvious sign that there is a problem.

Causes of prostate cancer can be a variety of reasons such as family history, a high intake of animal fats and protein. Statistics have shown menwho are from afro-caribbean decent are more likely to develop prostate cancer than those from asian decent.

What is Prostate Cancer?

Symptoms of Prostate Cancer

Symptoms to Watch For

  • needing to pee more often than usual, especially at night
  • difficulty peeing – for example, a weak flow or having to strain to start peeing
  • feeling like you have not completely emptied your bladder
  • an urgent need to pee
  • blood in your urine or semen

Diagnosis and Test

What to do if you have symptoms:

  • See your GP. If your GP thinks that your symptoms could be caused by cancer, will check your health and arrange to have some tests such as a rectal exam and a PSA blood test.

If cancer is suspected:

  • You’ll be referred to hospital to see a specialist doctor urologist or urology nurse
  • If it’s urgent, you’ll get an appointment quickly.

What happens at the hospital or clinic:

  • The urologist or specialist nurse will ask you about your symptoms and your general health. 
  • They may do another rectal examine and another PSA test.

Tests

You may have some of the following tests:

  • Trans-Perineal (TP) biopsy
  • Trans-rectal ultrasound (TRUS) biopsy
  • A multi-parametric MRI scan
  • MRI
  • CT scan

Living with and beyond Prostate Cancer

Additional Information

If you have been diagnosed with prostate cancer and have any questions or concerns about your illness don’t hesitate to speak to your Clinical Nurse Specialist.

You can also find further information, advice and helpful tips on the following links