Prostate Cancer: Everything You Need To Know

According to Prostate Cancer UK, 1 in 8 men will get prostate cancer in their lifetime and it is the most common cancer in men in the UK.

In 2021, around 52,000 men were diagnosed with prostate cancer in the UK alone and the risk of developing it increases with age, as most cases are diagnosed aged 65 and over.

It’s not uncommon for men find out by complete chance, and often it can be too late when the diagnosis is less treatable. For that reason, it’s essential to understand the symptoms, available tests, and the importance of early detection.

What is the Prostate?

The prostate gland is a small, walnut-sized gland located below the bladder and in front of the rectum in males. It plays a key role in the male reproductive system by producing seminal fluid, which nourishes and helps transport sperm during ejaculation.

As men age, the prostate can undergo changes, including enlargement (benign prostatic hyperplasia) or other conditions, such as prostatitis (inflammation) and prostate cancer.

Regular check-ups and awareness of symptoms are important for prostate health.

What is Prostate Cancer?

Prostate cancer occurs when cells in the prostate gland grow uncontrollably.

An enlarged prostate is very common in men over the age of about 50, but having an enlarged prostate is not the same as having prostate cancer.

Having an enlarged prostate doesn’t increase your risk of getting prostate cancer. But it’s possible to have an enlarged prostate and prostate cancer at the same time.

While many men with prostate cancer may not experience symptoms, early detection is vital for effective treatment.

Symptoms of Prostate Cancer

In its early stages, prostate cancer may not cause noticeable symptoms. However, as the disease progresses, some common symptoms include:

• Needing to urinate more often than usual, especially at night
• Difficulty starting or stopping urination
• Weak or interrupted urine flow
• Painful urination or ejaculation
• A feeling that your bladder hasn’t emptied properly

If prostate cancer breaks out of the prostate (locally advanced prostate cancer) or spreads to other parts of the body (advanced prostate cancer), it can cause other symptoms, including:

• Persistent pain in the lower back, hips, or pelvis
• Unexplained weight loss or fatigue
• Blood in urine or semen
• Problems getting or keeping an erection

If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s crucial to consult a healthcare professional for evaluation.

All these symptoms are usually caused by other things that aren’t prostate cancer. But it’s still a good idea to tell your GP about any symptoms so they can find out what is causing them and make sure you get the right treatment, if you need it.

Who Should Consider a Prostate Screening?

1. Men aged 50 and older: if you’re at average risk, starting at 50 is recommended.
2. Men aged 45 and older: if you have a higher risk, such as a family history of prostate cancer.

Tests for Prostate Cancer at Fleet Street Clinic

Several tests can help confirm the presence of prostate cancer:

1. Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) Test: This blood test measures the level of PSA, a substance produced by the prostate gland. Elevated PSA levels can indicate prostate cancer, but they can also be elevated due to benign conditions such as an enlarged prostate. A normal PSA indicates that the chance of a prostate cancer is very low.
2. Digital Rectal Exam (DRE): During this exam, a doctor manually examines the prostate for any irregularities or lumps. While this test can help identify abnormalities, it is typically used in conjunction with the PSA test.

Consider booking a GP appointment for either of these Prostate Cancer tests, or for a more comprehensive assessment, opt for our Prostate Cancer Check, which includes both tests.

Factors That Can Cause the PSA to be Falsely Raised

Several factors can cause a false elevation in Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) levels, potentially leading to misleading test results. Here are common causes:

1. Recent Ejaculation: Sexual activity, especially ejaculation, can elevate PSA levels temporarily. Avoid sexual activity for 24–48 hours before a PSA test.

1. Prostate Manipulation: Any recent procedures or physical manipulation, such as a digital rectal exam (DRE) or catheter insertion, can elevate PSA levels. Let your doctor know if you’ve had any recent prostate exams or urological procedures.
2. Vigorous Exercise: Activities that put pressure on the prostate, like cycling or horseback riding, can raise PSA levels temporarily. Avoid these activities for a f48 hours before the test.
3. Prostate Infections or Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): These infections can cause inflammation and increase PSA levels. Treat infections and allow recovery before testing.
4. Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH): An enlarged prostate from BPH can raise PSA levels even though it’s not cancerous. Make sure your doctor considers this in the interpretation.
5. Certain Medications: Some drugs, like testosterone, can increase PSA levels, while others like finasteride (for hair loss or BPH) can decrease it. Inform your doctor of any medications you’re taking.

Avoiding or managing these factors before a PSA test can help improve the accuracy of the results. Always discuss any concerns with your doctor.

You may need additional tests, as listed below, if your PSA is raised or if there is concern from the examination. We can refer you to specialists who may be available for same-day consultations to provide further evaluation.

1. Imaging Tests: Additional imaging tests, such as an MRI or CT scan, may be conducted to visualise the prostate gland.
2. Biopsy: If initial tests indicate potential cancer, a biopsy is often performed to confirm the diagnosis. During this procedure, a small sample of prostate tissue is removed and examined under a microscope for cancer cells.

Movember, an organisation focused on raising awareness of men’s health issues, including prostate cancer, emphasises the importance of regular check-ups and understanding one’s own health risks. Their campaigns encourage men to talk openly about health issues, promoting early detection and treatment.

Prostate cancer is a serious health concern for men, but awareness and early detection can lead to better outcomes. Regular check-ups and understanding the symptoms are essential steps in addressing this disease.

If you have concerns about prostate cancer or related symptoms, don’t hesitate to seek medical advice by booking a GP appointment. Early action can make a significant difference in your health and well-being.

Related services at Fleet Street Clinic

Prostate Cancer Check

Private GP Appointments

Annual Medical

Blood Tests