Listen to Your Body
Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers in men. The good news is that it often grows slowly, and many cases are found early when they can be treated most effectively. Understanding the warning signs can help you know when something might not be right. While some symptoms can be caused by conditions other than cancer, it’s important to pay attention to your body and act if something feels unusual. Let's take a look at some common clues that could point to prostate cancer, and when to see a doctor.
1. Changes in Urination
Because the prostate surrounds part of the urethra—the tube that carries urine out of the body—one of the first signs of prostate cancer often involves urination. These symptoms can include:
- Weak or slow urinary stream. You may feel like urine is trickling or taking longer than normal to come out.
- Difficulty starting urination. Some people need to strain or wait before urine begins to flow.
- Frequent urination, especially at night. Waking up multiple times to use the bathroom can be a sign of prostate changes.
- Feeling like your bladder isn’t emptying fully. Even after you urinate, it may feel like more is left.
- Stopping and starting during urination. The flow may cut off and then restart.
It’s important to know that these symptoms are also very common in benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate. Still, any persistent urinary change should be checked.
2. Pain or Burning During Urination
Pain, burning or discomfort while urinating—called dysuria—is less common but can happen. This is usually caused by infection or inflammation, but in some cases, prostate cancer may contribute. If the symptom continues after a few days, or if you have it alongside other changes, it’s worth paying attention.
3. Blood in Urine or Semen
Seeing blood in the urine (hematuria) or blood in semen is never normal. While infections, kidney stones or injuries can also cause this, it can sometimes be a sign of a prostate problem, including prostate cancer. The bleeding may be bright red or appear as a brownish tint.
4. Erectile Dysfunction or Changes in Sexual Function
Prostate cancer can sometimes affect sexual function. Warning signs may include:
- Trouble getting or keeping an erection.
- Reduced sexual desire.
- Pain during ejaculation.
Again, these symptoms can be linked to many conditions, but they shouldn’t be ignored if they are new or persistent.
5. Discomfort in the Pelvic Area
Some people with early prostate cancer may feel vague discomfort in the:
- Lower pelvis.
- Lower back.
- Hips.
- Upper thighs.
This discomfort may come and go. If the cancer spreads beyond the prostate, bone pain can become more noticeable.
6. Unexplained Weight Loss or Fatigue
In more advanced stages, prostate cancer can cause unexplained weight loss or constant tiredness. These symptoms typically appear later, not early, but they should still be taken seriously, especially if you haven’t changed your diet or activity level.
7. Trouble Passing Stool or Pain in the Rectal Area
Because the prostate sits close to the rectum, changes in bowel movements can happen. These may include:
- Pain when having a bowel movement.
- A feeling of pressure.
- Difficulty passing stool.
While these are not the most common early symptoms, they can occur when the prostate is enlarged or if cancer has grown near the rectal wall.
Who is Most at Risk?
Certain factors can increase a person’s chances of developing prostate cancer. Age plays a major role, and the risk rises significantly after age 50. Family history is also important—men whose father, brother or close relatives have had prostate cancer are more likely to develop it themselves.
Race and ethnicity can influence risk as well. African American men not only have a higher chance of getting prostate cancer but may also develop it at younger ages or experience more aggressive forms of the disease. Genetics can contribute too.
Some inherited gene mutations, such as BRCA1 or BRCA2, can raise the likelihood of prostate cancer. Even if you feel healthy and have no symptoms, being aware of these factors can help you and your doctor decide when to begin screening and how closely to monitor changes over time.
When to See a Doctor
You should see a doctor if:
- You notice any urinary changes that last more than two weeks.
- You see blood in your urine or semen.
- You have new or worsening pelvic or back pain.
- You experience erectile dysfunction that develops suddenly.
- You have unexplained fatigue or weight loss.
- You are 50+ (or 45+ with risk factors) and haven’t had a prostate cancer screening.
Early detection can make a major difference so it's important to be aware of clues that could point to prostate cancer. A simple blood test called the PSA test and a quick physical exam are usually enough to start the evaluation. If something unusual is found, your doctor can guide you through the next steps.
Keep reading to learn about foods to avoid eating if you have prostate cancer.