Prostate Cancer Can Strike Even In Middle Age: Discussing Screening Options With Your Doctor Early Is A Must

Prostate cancer is one of the most common types of cancer found in men. Health experts say early detection will provide the patients with more treatment options and increases their chances of survival.

September is observed as the National Prostate Cancer Awareness month in the United States. Prostate cancer is a serious disease that may advance without any warning signs or symptoms. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), it is one of the leading causes of cancer deaths in the United States. While the disease usually occurs in older men, some studies have shown that it can even develop in middle-aged and younger persons. A 2016 study showed that 10% of those diagnosed with prostate cancer in the country was below 55 years.

The American Cancer Society says one in one in nine men may develop prostate cancer. Doctors say the victims' chances of having a successful treatment outcome will be higher if the cancer is detected at an early stage. According to the ACS, the ideal candidates for prostate cancer screening are 40 years old men with a family history of the disease, 45-year-old African-American men or those with one close relative who fell victim to the disease and men who are aged 50 years and above.

"The disease can be successfully treated when detected early, typically when it is still within the prostate gland. However, some types are aggressive and can spread quickly. In these cases, there may be a lesser chance of successful treatment," said Dr. Alexander Kutikov, chief of the Division of Urologic Oncology at Fox Chase Cancer Center in Philadelphia, in a news release.

"Much debate has centered around screening for prostate cancer. Given the risks and benefits of screening, not every man should be screened for prostate cancer," he added and advised patients to discuss the risk factors, preferences and options with their doctors.

At its early stage, prostate cancer usually does not cause any noticeable symptoms, but when patients experience warning signs like blood in the urine, pelvic pain, changes in urine flow or its frequency, back pain and discomfort or feeling a burning pain while urinating, they need to immediately schedule an appointment with their doctors.

Kutikov also said that many of the symptoms associated with prostate cancer are similar to other types of ailments. "However, you should let your health care provider know if you show any signs so the cause may be determined and treated if needed," the doctor said.

The CDC says it is better to discuss with a doctor regarding when to undergo screening. The two common tests used to screen for prostate cancer are the prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test and the digital rectal examination.

The first one involves measuring the level of PSA, a substance produced by the prostate, in the blood. If the PSA level is high, it might indicate the development of prostate cancer. However, high PSA levels could also be caused by some other medical reasons like a prostate infection, having an enlarged prostate or due to some medications. During the digital rectal examination, a health care provider will insert a gloved and lubricated finger into the patient's rectum to feel the presence of anything abnormal in the prostate area.