Prostate Cancer

Understanding Prostate Cancer

Prostate cancer happens when cells in the prostate grow in a way that isn’t normal.  

The prostate is a small gland found only in men. It helps make semen, the fluid that carries sperm. It is located below the bladder and in front of the rectum. 

Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers in men. It usually grows slowly, but some types can grow and spread fast if not treated. If it’s caught early, it can often be treated successfully. 

Key Facts About Prostate Cancer:

• 1 in 8 men will get prostate cancer in their lifetime.
• It is the second leading cause of cancer deaths in men in the U.S.
• African American men are more likely to get prostate cancer – about 1 in 6 compared to overall men.
• Over 3.3 million men in the U.S. have had prostate cancer and are still living.
• Screening saves lives by finding cancer early.

Types of Prostate Cancer  

Most prostate cancers are a type called adenocarcinoma, which starts in the cells that make prostate fluid.  

Other, rarer types include:  

• Small cell carcinoma – a fast-growing kind  

• Neuroendocrine tumors  

• Transitional cell carcinoma  

• Sarcomas  

Signs of Prostate Cancer  

Early prostate cancer often has no signs. If signs do appear, they may include: 

• Needing to pee often, especially at night 

• Weak or slow urine flow 

• Trouble starting or stopping peeing 

• Pain or burning while peeing 

• Blood in urine or semen 

• Pain in the lower back, hips, or pelvis 

• Pain when ejaculating 

Illustration of signs to watch for prostate cancer.

Prostate Screening Methods

Prostate cancer often has no early symptoms, so routine screening helps find a baseline and supports early detection. Early detection and early treatment improve patient outcomes.  

Prostate Screening Methods: 

• Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) Test: A simple blood test that checks PSA levels. High levels may indicate cancer but can also be caused by other conditions. Normal lab values are 0.00-4.00 ng/mL. 
• Digital Rectal Exam (DRE): A doctor feels the prostate for lumps or hard areas. 
• MRI or Biopsy: If screening tests show something unusual, further testing may be needed. 

Who Should be Screened and When

Screening is based on age and risk factors: 

• Men ages 50-69 – Should discuss screening with their doctor. 

• Men over 70 – Should discuss the risks and benefits of screening with their doctor. 

• African American men and men with family history of prostate cancer – Should consider screening starting at age 45 due to increased risks.  

How to Confirm the Diagnosis? 

Getting a prostate biopsy: A biopsy is a procedure in which small samples of the prostate are removed and looked at under a microscope. This test is the only way to know for sure if a man has prostate cancer.