Prostate Cancer – Symptoms, Stages and Treatment

Prostate cancer is a type of oncological disease that occurs when normal cells of the prostate gland begin to change and multiply uncontrollably. The prostate is a gland of the male reproductive system whose main function is the production of fluid that mixes with sperm to form semen. Prostate cancer develops as a result of abnormal growth of the cells that make up the prostate gland.

Symptoms of prostate cancer

In the early stages, prostate cancer may not cause any symptoms. However, as the disease progresses, one or more of the following symptoms may appear:

• Difficulty urinating or pain during urination;
• Need for frequent urination, especially at night;
• Burning sensation during urination;
• Blood in urine and/or seminal fluid;
• Weak or intermittent urinary stream;

Causes of prostate cancer

The exact causes of prostate cancer are still not fully understood. However, it is known that many factors can increase the risk of developing the disease. Some of the following factors include:

• Age: The risk of developing prostate cancer increases after the age of 50, and after 65 years the risk is even higher.
• Genetic predisposition: Men with a family history of prostate cancer are at higher risk.
• Hormonal factors: Elevated levels of male hormones, such as testosterone, promote the growth and metastasis of prostate cancer. High testosterone levels in men are associated with the development of cancer cells in the prostate.
• Diet: Some studies show a link between the consumption of high-fat foods, especially fats of animal origin, and prostate cancer.
• Lifestyle factors: Obesity, smoking, and lack of physical activity are associated with an increased risk of developing prostate cancer.

Stages of prostate cancer

After the diagnosis is confirmed, staging is performed. Prostate cancer staging is a method used to determine the degree of cancer development. The following stages are distinguished:

First stage: The cancer is localized in the prostate and is small.

Second stage: The spread of cancer is still confined to the prostate gland only, but it is increasing in size.

Third stage: The cancer extends beyond the prostate and affects surrounding tissues.

Fourth stage: The cancer has spread to more distant organs (liver, lungs, or bones).

Treatment of prostate cancer

Treatment of prostate cancer varies depending on the patient's age, the stage of the disease, and the patient's general health condition. The treatment process may include:

• Surgical treatment: Surgical treatment for prostate cancer is an important part of treating this disease. Laparoscopic or, if necessary, classic surgical intervention can be performed to remove the prostate. Depending on the stage of the disease, it can be combined with the types of treatment listed below.
• Radiation therapy: This type of treatment uses high-energy X-rays aimed at destroying cancer cells.
• Hormone therapy: Hormone therapy can help stop the growth of cancer cells.
• Chemotherapy: This type of treatment uses medications administered with the aim of stopping the growth of cancer cells.

Surgical treatment of prostate cancer

Surgical treatment of prostate cancer can be performed through open or closed surgery, depending on the condition of the prostate.

• Open surgery: Performed traditionally with an incision in the lower abdomen.
• Laparoscopic and robotic surgery: Minimally invasive methods that lead to faster recovery and fewer complications.

Surgery for prostate cancer should be discussed in detail along with alternative types of treatment.

Early diagnosis and prevention

Early diagnosis is key to successful treatment of prostate cancer. Regular check-ups are recommended, including PSA (prostate-specific antigen) testing for men over 40.

For successful treatment of prostate cancer, it is important to detect it early, while it is still localized in the prostate gland and has not spread to other parts of the body. At this stage, surgical interventions affect only the affected area and the side effects of surgery and radiation therapy are eliminated.

In conclusion, prostate cancer is treatable, especially when detected in its early stages. If you have symptoms or a family history of prostate cancer, do not hesitate to consult a doctor and undergo regular preventive check-ups.