Prostate cancer is the second most common cancer diagnosis in US men, behind skin cancer. In fact, it is the second leading cancer death for men in the United States.

Experts recommend early detection by regular screening as a sure-fire way of decreasing its spread. Cancer statistics state that the 5-year survival rate for prostate cancer in its regional state is almost 100%. The odds dramatically drop to 30% when it spreads to other parts.

Cause of Prostate Cancer

The exact cause of prostate cancer is unknown, although many risk factors increase the likelihood of occurrence. They include;

• If you are a man above 55 years in age, you have an increased likelihood, with a peak age of 65 and 74 years
• If you have an African American origin
• If your family has a history of the disease, you are at more risk
• People with poor dietary habits who eat diets high in fat
• Cigarette smokers and alcoholics are also at more risk
• Obese people
• Lack of exercise is also a risk factor

Warning Signs of Prostate Cancer

There are rarely any symptoms of prostate cancer in its early stage. In fact, some medical journals like WebMD report that there are no warning signs and insist on regular prostate cancer screening.

Other journals have a few potential warning signs of the disease. The warning signs include;

• Compression of the spine symptoms
• Bone pain, possibly due to spread
• Pain or burning sensation when urinating and ejaculating
• Blood in the semen or urine
• A problem in getting an erection or erectile dysfunction

Other symptoms shown by medical journals include

• Weight loss
• Loss of bladder control
• The frequent need to pee, especially during the night
• A weak urine flow
• Trouble starting and even stopping the flow of urine
• Pain in the lower back, thighs, and hips
• A dull ache in the lower pelvic area
• A loss of appetite
• Anemia
• Loss of bowel control
• Bone pain

At its advanced stage, men experience additional prostate cancer symptoms. Studies state that it’s because prostate cancer has spread to other parts of the body, such as lymph nodes

The advanced symptoms include

• Pain and numbness in the legs, hips, and feet
• Swelling in legs and pelvic areas
• Persisting bone pain

If you are experiencing any of the signs mentioned earlier, be sure to consult a physician, more so if you are in the risk bracket (black, above 55 years or have a family history of prostate cancer).

Now, while some of the symptoms are caused by something other than prostate cancer, it’s still wise to consult a physician so that the cause is found and treated on time.