Prostate cancer symptomsA big challenge to finding cancer early is that most men do not have any early physical symptoms of prostate cancer. As prostate cancer advances, some men may experience the need to urinate more often, or may find their ability to urinate is slowed or weakened. These problems can also be caused by noncancerous conditions such as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Painful irritation can also occur, but this is typically due to other causes, such as infection. Blood in the urine or sexual problems (such as difficulty getting an erection) also may occur as prostate cancer advances. Blood in semen is also sometimes associated with prostate cancer, but can be caused by other conditions such as prostatitis, which is an infection or inflammation of the prostate gland. Pain in the back, hips, and ribs may be other signs of advanced cancer. Are there any warning signs of prostate cancer?Urinary problems that are related to prostate cancer may appear more suddenly (such as in a few months rather than years). Your loved one should talk to his doctor about any urinary problems or changes, even if he feels they are not much of a bother. What can men do? Since there are few prostate cancer symptoms, one way to help detect cancer early is through simple screening tests. Read the sections on
prostate-specific antigen
and
the prostate exam
to learn more. Always discuss everything you read on this web site with a qualified medical professional.  American Urological Association. The Management of Localized Prostate Cancer. http://www.auanet.org. Accessed September 1, 2008. Bostwick DG, Crawford DE, Higano CS, Roach M, eds. American Cancer Society’s Complete Guide to Prostate Cancer. Atlanta, GA: American Cancer Society Health Promotions; 2005. The American Cancer Society. Prostate Cancer. http://www.cancer.org. Accessed September 1, 2008.
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