The prostate is about the size of a walnut and wraps around the tube that carries urine out of the bladder in men. It grows larger, the older you get, but if it gets too large, then health issues can arise, including cancer. Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in American men, and 1 in every 9 men will be diagnosed with it in their lifetime. Behind lung cancer, prostate cancer is the second leading cause of cancer deaths in
men. The first signs are not noticeable in the early stages of the disease, because there is no pain from the tumor. However, there are some symptoms you may experience that you should watch out for, and see your doctor if they arise.
Warning Signs
If your prostate is enlarged, then you will experience some common problems. These issues include:
- Frequent urination, especially at night
- Leaking when you laugh, or cough
- Burning or pain when urinating
- Blood in urine or semen
- Pain in the rectum, upper thighs, hips, or lower back
- Weak stream
- Painful ejaculation
- Loss of bladder control
- Difficulty getting an erection
- Not being able to stand up when urinating
- Trouble starting or stopping a stream
- UTIs
Regular Screenings
Regular prostate cancer screenings are very important because you are more likely to catch a tumor early on before it
grows. Early detection is key to beating cancer. Once you are 50 years old, your risk of getting prostate cancer increases. It is more common among African American men and men who have a family history of prostate cancer.
Eat a healthy diet that consists of fruits, vegetables, and high-fat. If you experience any of the warning signs, schedule an appointment with your doctor to get screened. An enlarged prostate does not necessarily mean cancer, but it can raise concerns if it is not dealt with right away.