Prostate cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer deaths, however, a recent survey showed that most people don’t know this vital fact about prostate cancer symptoms. Prostate cancer is a serious illness in the US, affecting over 300,000 men each year and causing more than 35,000 deaths, according American Cancer Society. This makes it the second-most deadly cancer for men. If doctors detect the disease early, it is treatable. However, patients usually don't notice any signs of the disease in its beginning stages. Due to this lack of symptoms, checking for the disease is extremely important. A recent survey of 1,004 U.S. adults, commissioned by the Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center, aimed to gauge public knowledge of the disease. The findings highlight a critical need for better education. What Do Americans Know About Early-Stage Prostate Cancer? The results showed that most people, 80% of those surveyed, are unaware that early prostate cancer usually has no physical symptoms. One health specialist noted that it's crucial for everyone to understand that this cancer causes no symptoms until it has become advanced. The survey also revealed other gaps in knowledge:More than half of the people surveyed (59%) did not know that changes in sexual function could be a sign of prostate cancer.The survey noticed some differences across groups. For example, one minority group was better at identifying less common signs like tiredness and weight loss.However, that same minority group was less likely than others to correctly identify that the cancer usually has no symptoms in its early stage.What Is The Best Way To Diagnose Prostate Cancer? The fact that prostate cancer often begins without symptoms is the main reason doctors worry. Lack of Symptoms In its early phase, the cancer is small and contained within the prostate gland. It doesn't push on or block any other body parts, so it doesn't cause pain or discomfort. Because the cancer is deep inside the body, it's hard to tell if someone has it without special tests. Provider Worry Because men feel fine, they may wrongly believe they aren't at risk. This feeling of being safe often makes men hesitant to get screened. Since there are no symptoms to look for, screening tests, usually a simple blood test or a physical exam, are the best way to find the cancer early. What Are Some Signs of Prostate Cancer? Even though most men with early prostate cancer feel completely normal, there are certain signs that might appear if the disease is more advanced. These symptoms include: Having trouble starting to urinate.Having a urine flow that is weak or stops and starts.Needing to urinate often, especially during the night.Difficulty completely emptying the bladder.Feeling pain or a burning sensation while urinating.Noticing blood in the urine or semen.Feeling pain in the back, hips, or pelvis that doesn't go away.Experiencing pain during ejaculation.When Should You Get Screened For Prostate Cancer? According to American Cancer Society, health organizations advise men to talk with their doctors about getting checked for prostate cancer starting at certain ages, depending on their personal risk. Average Risk: Age 50 Men who have no special risk factors. High Risk: Age 45 Men who are African American or who have a father or brother who was diagnosed before age 65. Highest Risk: Age 40 Men who have more than one close relative (father or brother) diagnosed at an early age. There is no one-size-fits-all advice for screening. Men should always speak to their doctor about their own risk and discuss the pros and cons of testing. Since there are no early warning signs, talking to a doctor about screening is described as "critical" and a simple process that could potentially save a man's life.
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