27 Sep PROSTATE CANCER AWARENESS

Posted at 15:17h in Uncategorized by

Do you know the signs and symptoms of prostate cancer? September is prostate cancer awareness month. Southeast Radiation Oncology Center wants you to be informed about the warning signs for prostate cancer.

The prostate is a small walnut-shaped gland in the pelvis of men. It is located next to the bladder and can be examined by getting a digital rectal exam. Prostate cancer is a form of cancer that develops in the prostate gland. It is the second-leading cause of cancer deaths for men in the U.S.

Growths in the prostate can be benign (not cancer) or malignant (cancer).

Benign growths:

  • Are rarely a threat to life
  • Don’t invade the tissues around them
  • Don’t spread to other parts of the body
  • Can be removed and can grow back very slowly (but usually don’t grow back)

 

Malignant growths (prostate cancer):

  • May sometimes be a threat to life
  • Can spread to nearby organs and tissues (such as the bladder or rectum)
  • Can spread to other parts of the body (like lymph nodes or bone)
  • Often can be removed but sometimes grow back

Prostate cancer cells can spread by breaking away from a prostate tumor. They can travel through blood vessels or lymph nodes to reach other parts of the body. After spreading, cancer cells may attach to other tissues and grow to form new tumors, causing damage where they land.

Symptoms of prostate cancer can be:

  • Dull pain in the lower pelvic area
  • Frequent urinating
  • Trouble urinating, pain, burning, or weak urine flow
  • Blood in the urine (Hematuria)
  • Painful ejaculation
  • Pain in the lower back, hips, or upper thighs
  • Loss of appetite
  • Loss of weight
  • Bone pain

If you notice any new symptoms or areas of concern, you should see your doctor immediately for testing. Southeast Radiation Oncology Center can be reached at 907-586-5762.