Know the Signs: Understanding Prostate Cancer Symptoms and When to Seek Advice
As an independent health and care champion, Healthwatch North Northamptonshire encourages people to feel confident seeking information, speaking to healthcare professionals, and accessing support when they have concerns about their health.
What Is the Prostate?
The prostate is a small gland found below the bladder in men. It forms part of the male reproductive system and surrounds the tube that carries urine out of the body (the urethra).
As men age, the prostate can naturally become larger. This is common and does not always mean cancer is present, but changes should still be checked by a healthcare professional.
Common Symptoms of Prostate Cancer
In its early stages, prostate cancer may not cause any symptoms. When symptoms do develop, they can include:
- Needing to urinate more often, especially at night
- Difficulty starting urination
- Weak urine flow
- Feeling that the bladder has not fully emptied
- Blood in urine or semen
- Pain or discomfort when urinating
- Erectile difficulties
More advanced prostate cancer can sometimes cause:
- Persistent back, hip, or pelvic pain
- Unexplained weight loss
- Fatigue or ongoing tiredness
Many of these symptoms can also be caused by non-cancerous prostate conditions, such as an enlarged prostate, but it is important to speak to a GP if symptoms are persistent or unusual.
Who Is Most at Risk?
Several factors can increase the risk of prostate cancer, including:
Age
Risk increases significantly for men over the age of 50.
Family History
People with a father or brother who has had prostate cancer may have a higher risk.
Ethnicity
Black men are statistically at higher risk of developing prostate cancer and may develop it at a younger age.
Lifestyle and General Health
Research continues into how diet, obesity, and physical activity may affect prostate cancer risk.
When Should You Speak to a GP?
It is important not to ignore ongoing urinary symptoms or unexplained pain. Seeking medical advice early does not necessarily mean cancer is present, but it can help identify any underlying condition and provide reassurance or treatment where needed.
A GP may discuss:
- Symptoms and medical history
- A blood test called a PSA (Prostate Specific Antigen) test
- A physical examination
- Further scans or specialist referrals if needed
People over 50 can request a PSA blood test from their GP even if they do not have symptoms, after discussing the benefits and limitations of testing.
Diagnosis and Treatment
If prostate cancer is diagnosed, treatment will depend on:
- The size and stage of the cancer
- How quickly it is growing
- Overall health and personal circumstances
Treatment options may include:
- Active monitoring
- Surgery
- Radiotherapy
- Hormone therapy
- Chemotherapy
Many prostate cancers are treatable, particularly when detected early.
Looking After Your Health
There is no guaranteed way to prevent prostate cancer, but maintaining a healthy lifestyle may support overall wellbeing. This includes:
- Staying physically active
- Eating a balanced diet
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Attending regular health checks
- Seeking advice when symptoms arise
Support and Further Information
Reliable information and support are available from:
- Your GP practice
- NHS services
- Cancer support organisations
- Local health and wellbeing services
Further information about prostate cancer symptoms, testing, and treatment is available through the NHS website:
NHS – Prostate Cancer Information
Support and guidance can also be found through: