Prostate Cancer

What is Prostate Cancer?

Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers affecting men. It usually grows slowly, though certain types can be more aggressive and progress quickly. Most cases remain confined to the prostate gland, which produces fluid that nourishes and transports sperm. The most common type of prostate cancer is adenocarcinoma, which develops in the glandular cells of the prostate.

What Causes Prostate Cancer?

Prostate cancer develops as a result of changes to the genetic material within prostate cells. These changes lead to uncontrolled cell growth and division. Although the exact cause is often unknown, several factors may increase the likelihood of developing prostate cancer:

• Aging
• Chronic inflammation of the prostate
• Exposure to certain chemicals such as Agent Orange
• Family history of cancer syndromes or specific cancers
• Genetic mutations
• High levels of testosterone
• Obesity
• Overconsumption of saturated fats
• Personal history of certain cancers
• Testosterone supplementation

Symptoms of Prostate Cancer

Some men may not experience symptoms in the early stages of prostate cancer, and it may first appear as an abnormal finding during a routine screening exam. When symptoms are present, they may include:

• Frequent urge to urinate or waking at night to urinate
• Trouble starting or stopping urine flow
• Weak or interrupted urine stream
• Blood in semen
• Erectile dysfunction
• Discomfort in the pelvic area
• Pain or stiffness in the lower back, hips, or upper thighs

How Is Prostate Cancer Detected?

Our specialists take a comprehensive approach by reviewing medical, surgical, social, and family history, as well as performing laboratory and imaging studies. Early detection often begins with:

• Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test to measure PSA levels
• Digital rectal exam (DRE) in which a healthcare provider checks the prostate for enlargement or abnormalities

If prostate cancer is suspected, additional diagnostic tests may include:

• Urine cytology to detect cancer cells in urine
• Cystoscopy to examine the inside of the urinary tract with a flexible scope
• Imaging studies such as CT scan, PET scan, PET-CT scan, ultrasound, or MRI to assess the size and spread of cancer

If imaging or lab results show a suspicious finding, a biopsy will likely be performed to confirm the diagnosis.

Stages of Prostate Cancer

Staging describes how advanced the cancer is and helps guide treatment. According to the American Joint Committee on Cancer (AJCC), the stages are:

Stage I

Cancer is very small, limited to one side of the prostate, and cannot be felt during examination. PSA levels are typically low.

Stage II

Cancer is still confined to the prostate but has grown beyond Stage I classification. PSA levels may be higher.

Stage III

Cancer is locally advanced and has spread beyond the prostate to nearby tissues such as the bladder.

Stage IV

Cancer has spread to lymph nodes, bones, or distant organs.

How Is Prostate Cancer Treated?

Treatment depends on the type and stage of prostate cancer and may include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, immunotherapy, hormone therapy, and/or surgery. These treatments may be given individually or in combination. Factors to consider when planning treatment include:

• Your age, health, and lifestyle
• The stage and aggressiveness of your cancer
• Other serious health conditions you may have
• Your preferences about starting treatment right away
• Your doctor’s medical recommendation
• The likelihood that treatment will control or cure the cancer
• Possible side effects of each treatment option

Close communication with your care team ensures you understand all options and make the decision that best fits your needs.

Our Approach

We understand that a prostate cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming and life-changing. At The New York Cancer & Blood Specialists, we build our care teams around you. Our expert oncologists will guide you through the diagnostic and treatment process, answering all your questions along the way. We are here to support you and will do everything possible to provide compassionate, personalized care. If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms that may be related to prostate cancer, please call us at (855) 528-7322 or make an appointment online.