Prostate Cancer 101: Understand the Basics Cause & Treatment

Prostate cancer is a major health issue that affects men worldwide. Recent findings predict that the number of men diagnosed with prostate cancer around the world will more than double in the next 20 years. In 2020, around 1.4 million men were newly diagnosed with prostate cancer. 

By 2040, this number is expected to jump to 2.9 million. This increase is due to the growing and ageing population. As the world’s population grows, more men are likely to be diagnosed with prostate cancer. It’s important to raise awareness, improve screening, and develop better treatments to handle this rising health issue.

In India, the number of reported prostate cancer cases rose from 37,416 in 2016 to 41,532 in 2020. By 2025, this number is expected to exceed 47,000 cases, indicating a steady increase in incidence over the years. So, let’s explore the basics of prostate cancer causes, symptoms, and treatment options so you can learn how to recognise, understand, and fight this disease effectively.

What is Prostate Cancer?

Prostate cancer begins in the prostate gland. The prostate is a small, walnut-sized gland found in men, located just below the bladder and in front of the rectum. It produces fluid that is part of semen, which is necessary for male fertility. In prostate cancer, some of the cells in the prostate grow in an uncontrolled way. This can cause a tumour to form. There are two main types of prostate cancer:

Slow-Growing Prostate Cancer: Most prostate cancers grow slowly and may not cause serious problems. Many men with this type of cancer can live for years without symptoms or major health issues.

Aggressive Prostate Cancer: Some prostate cancers are aggressive and grow quickly. They can spread to other parts of the body (metastasise), which makes them more dangerous.

What Causes Prostate Cancer?

The exact prostate cancer causes are not fully known, but several factors can increase the risk of developing it. A family history of prostate cancer can raise your chances if close relatives like your father or brother have had it, possibly due to shared genes or lifestyles. Genetics also play a role, as specific genetic changes passed down through families can heighten the risk. 

Race is another factor, with African American men being more likely to develop prostate cancer, often in a more aggressive form, though the reasons for this are still being studied. Diet and lifestyle choices are important, too; consuming a lot of red meat and processed foods while not eating enough fruits and vegetables can increase the risk. Adopting a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains may help lower this risk. 

Additionally, male hormones, particularly testosterone, can influence prostate cell growth, and higher levels might encourage cancer development. While you can't change factors like your family history or race, you can focus on maintaining a healthy lifestyle by eating a balanced diet and staying active.

Symptoms of Prostate Cancer

Prostate cancer often grows slowly, so you might not notice any signs at first. However, as the cancer develops, some symptoms may appear. Prostate cancer symptoms include:

• Prostate cancer often grows slowly, so you might not notice any signs at first. However, as the cancer develops, some symptoms may appear. These include frequent urination, particularly at night, which can disrupt sleep and signal an issue with your prostate. You might notice a weak or interrupted urine flow due to the tumour pressing against the urethra.
   
• Blood in the urine or semen can be alarming and may indicate that the cancer is affecting nearby tissues. Pain or discomfort in the pelvic area, including the lower belly, hips, or upper thighs, can also be a sign, presenting as a constant ache or sharp twinges.
   
• Erectile dysfunction is another symptom, as prostate cancer can impact the nerves and blood vessels involved in erections. Some men might experience painful ejaculation. If the cancer spreads to the bones, persistent pain in the spine, hips, or ribs may occur, often worsening with movement.

Treatment Options for Prostate Cancer

Selecting the best prostate cancer treatment depends on various factors, including the cancer's stage, the patient's age, overall health, and personal preferences.

• Active Surveillance: This approach involves closely monitoring prostate cancer without immediate treatment. It’s often recommended for men with slow-growing cancers that aren't causing symptoms. Typically, this means regular PSA blood tests, digital rectal exams (DRE), and sometimes biopsies to check the cancer’s progress. This method is suitable for older men or those with other serious health conditions because it avoids or delays the side effects associated with treatments like surgery or radiation.
   
• Radiation Therapy: Radiation therapy involves using high-energy rays to destroy cancer cells. There are two main types: External Beam Radiation Therapy (EBRT), where radiation is delivered from a machine outside the body over several weeks, and Internal Radiation Therapy (brachytherapy), where radioactive seeds are placed directly into the prostate. Radiation therapy is effective for localised cancer and is sometimes used after surgery to prevent recurrence, but it can cause side effects such as fatigue, urinary issues, and bowel problems.
   
• Hormone Therapy: Also known as androgen deprivation therapy (ADT), hormone therapy reduces or blocks male hormones like testosterone that fuel cancer growth. This treatment can involve medications to lower hormone levels or surgery to remove the testicles. Hormone therapy is often applied to treat advanced prostate cancer or used alongside other treatments. While it can slow the growth of the cancer, it’s not a cure and can have side effects like hot flashes, decreased libido, bone thinning, and fatigue.
   
• Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy uses powerful drugs to kill rapidly dividing cancer cells. It’s usually administered orally or through an injection and is often used for prostate cancer that has spread and isn’t responding to hormone therapy. Chemotherapy can help control cancer and alleviate symptoms, but it comes with significant side effects such as nausea, hair loss, fatigue, and a higher risk of infections.
   
• Surgery: Prostate cancer surgery to remove the prostate gland, known as a prostatectomy, is a common treatment for cancer confined to the prostate. There are different types of surgery, including traditional open surgery with a larger incision, laparoscopic surgery using small incisions and a camera, and robot-assisted surgery for greater precision. Surgery is generally recommended for men with localised cancer who are in good health. Potential side effects include urinary incontinence and erectile dysfunction, but these may improve over time.

Conclusion

Understanding the basics of prostate cancer, including its causes, symptoms, and treatment options, is essential for early detection and effective management. With advancements in medical technology and treatment approaches, many men can successfully manage and get treatment for prostate cancer.

At MASSH, we specialise in prostate cancer treatment with modern surgical treatments featuring the latest medical technological innovations that offer quick recovery and a safe surgical experience to all patients. For more information about prostate cancer treatment at MASSH, check out our website or feel free to visit us today to consult directly with our specialists.