WHAT IS PROSTATE CANCER?

The prostate gland produces seminal fluid and is located in men below the urinary bladder in front of the rectum. Prostate Cancer occurs when cells in the prostate begin multiplying out of control. Prostate Cancer is the second leading cause of cancer in men after skin cancer.

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS?

Symptoms may or may not be present. Symptoms could include difficulty urinating, blood in the urine or semen or difficulty getting an erection.

HOW IS IT DIAGNOSED?

Prostate Cancer can often be found early by utilizing a blood test for Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA). If PSA levels indicate that you might have prostate cancer, your doctor may perform a digital rectal exam (DRE). For a DRE, a doctor applies slight pressure inside the rectum to feel the prostate gland for abnormalities. Prostate Cancer can only be confirmed by conducting a biopsy, where very tiny tissue samples from different areas of the prostate are removed and analyzed.

WHAT ARE THE TREATMENT OPTIONS?

There are many treatment options for Prostate Cancer. The best option is based on the stage of cancer, your age, lifestyle and overall health. Minimally invasive robotic surgery may be used to remove the prostate when it is the right treatment for you. Active surveillance, radiation therapy, chemotherapy or hormonal therapy can also be treatment options. Your Esse Health Urologist will discuss what would work best for you.