Prostate cancer is the second most common type of cancer threatening the male population in the U.S., according to statistics by Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Tens of thousands die of this disease every year, when in fact, it’s a highly treatable condition when recognized early.
Read on for some of the prostate cancer symptoms you should not ignore, and schedule a screening if they sound familiar.
Symptoms of Prostate Cancer
Although the following symptoms don’t necessarily mean that you have prostate cancer, they are a good reason to get checked as soon as possible.
- Issues with urinating – Having trouble urinating or a weak urinary stream are both indicators that you should see a doctor.
- Blood – Blood in the urine or in the semen can be a symptom of prostate cancer.
- Erectile dysfunction –Many things can cause erectile dysfunction, and cancer is also one of them.
- Bone pain –Pain in the chest, hips, and back can be signs of a progressed condition.
- Weight loss – Unexplained weight loss grants a visit to the doctor, whether it’s related to prostate cancer or not.
Prevention Is Better Than Cure
Prostate cancer risk factors include obesity and an unhealthy diet. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle with plenty of physical exercise and a balanced diet is thus the key to lowering your chances of not only prostate cancer but countless other conditions as well.
Screening Is Always a Good Idea
The biggest obstacle to early diagnosis is the fact that prostate cancer often goes without noticeable symptoms in the beginning. Therefore, regular screenings are the only way to truly catch this condition while it’s still treatable.
Your risk of prostate cancer increases as you get older. The majority of cases affect those over 65 years old. It’s recommended that men begin prostate cancer screenings after the age of 55 or earlier if they are in a high-risk group.
