UNDERSTANDING PROSTATE CANCER

WHAT IS PROSTATE CANCER?

Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men, with one in eight men being diagnosed in their lifetime. It usually progresses very slowly; men can sometimes live for decades without noticing any symptoms. Prostate cancer starts in the walnut-sized prostate gland, which is part of the male reproductive system located between the penis and the bladder, surrounding the urethra.

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS?

Symptoms of prostate cancer do not usually appear until the prostate becomes large enough to affect the tube that carries urine from the bladder out of the penis, known as the urethra. When this happens, you might start to notice things such as an increased need to pee, straining while you pee or a feeling that your bladder has not fully emptied. It’s important to understand that these symptoms do not always mean you have prostate cancer, but they also shouldn’t be ignored.

As you get older, your chances of developing prostate cancer are higher, with most cases developing in men aged 50 or older

WHAT CAUSES PROSTATE CANCER?

While the exact cause is unknown, there are certain factors that can increase your risk. As you age, your chances of developing prostate cancer are higher, with most cases developing in men aged 50 or older. It can be more common in black men and less common among Asian men. A family history of prostate cancer can also increase the risk slightly, particularly for men whose father or brother have been affected.

HOW IS PROSTATE CANCER TESTED?

There is no single test to diagnose prostate cancer. The most-used tests are blood tests known as a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test, a physical examination of your prostate, an MRI scan or a biopsy. A prostate-specific antigen blood test measures the level of PSA and may help detect early prostate cancer. If you do have a raised PSA level, you might be offered an MRI scan of the prostate to help decide if you need further tests and treatment, as results from a PSA test can be unreliable and raised PSA levels can be caused by non-cancerous conditions.

WHAT ARE THE TREATMENT OPTIONS?

Not all prostate cancer cases will need treatment, especially if it’s at an early stage and not causing symptoms. Some cases of prostate cancer can be cured if treated in early stages. Treatment includes surgically removing the prostate, or radiotherapy, sometimes alongside hormone therapy.

How To Get Support

If you or a loved one is affected by cancer and you would like further information or support, you can speak to a Boots Macmillan Information Pharmacist (BMIPs) in most Boots pharmacies across the UK and online. The specially trained BMIPs can offer free information, support and advice to cancer patients, as well as to their friends and family. You can also contact Macmillan’s free helpline on 0808 808 0000, seven days a week from 8am–8pm.