Prostate cancer is a common, usually slow growing cancer, compared to other types of cancer. It is now the most common form of cancer in UK men. A man’s prostate is a small gland that lies just below the bladder and is about the size of a walnut. Its normal role is to produce secretions that help to nourish sperm.
Usually prostate tumours develop slowly and within the gland, only spreading later to other parts of the body. Prostate cancer can be diagnosed at one of the following three key stages.
Key stages of diagnosis
Localised - the cancer remains confined within the prostate Locally advanced - the cancer has spread through the prostate into the surrounding tissues Advanced - the cancer has spread to other parts of the body What are the Symptoms? Difficulty and/or pain when passing urine An increased frequency in passing urine, particularly at night Dribbling A feeling of not completely emptying your bladder Back pain Blood in your urine
If you experience any of the symptoms described, go to your GP as soon as possible. Similar symptoms can occur in other conditions and does not necessarily mean that you have prostate cancer.
What the GP may do
The GP may carry out a Digital Rectal Examination (DRE). The doctor will insert a gloved finger into your back passage. The reason for doing this is that the doctor can feel the prostate here and can have a quick check to see if it feels normal or not and what size it is. He may also do a blood test, to check for Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA). PSA is an indicator that there may be active prostate cancer.
Concerned about Prostate Cancer?
If you have any concerns about prostate cancer, please call our free and confidential helpline – 0800 783 3339. Alternatively, you can email one of our cancer information nurses directly on infocis@ulstercancer.org