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With the announcement of former president Joe Biden’s prostate cancer diagnosis, INTEGRIS Health is raising awareness of the signs and symptoms to be on the lookout for when it comes to this disease effecting men’s health.

Prostate cancer is one of the most common types of cancer among men, with 13 percent of men developing it at some point in their life. Prostate cancer is a typically slow-growing cancer and is usually successfully treated when detected early. A majority of prostate cancer cases are diagnosed in men over the age of 65.

Because of this, it’s recommended to begin prostate cancer screening at age 50.

• The prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test and the digital rectal exam (DRE) are the two ways to screen for prostate cancer.
• The PSA test measures the level of PSA in the blood, which can be elevated in men with prostate cancer, while the DRE allows a doctor to physically examine the prostate for abnormalities.

“Screening for prostate cancer with PSA is a simple blood test that allows us to detect prostate cancer early and give patients the best opportunity to receive the treatment needed,” says Tyler Gutschenritter, M.D., a radiation oncologist at INTEGRIS Health Cancer Institute.

What causes prostate cancer

Prostate cancer occurs due to a combination of genetic, environmental and lifestyle factors that can transform normal prostate cells into cancerous ones.

• These mutations can be inherited or acquired over a person’s lifetime.
• Family history significantly increases prostate cancer risk, particularly for those with close relatives affected.
• BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene mutations are linked to higher risk.

Five warning signs of prostate cancer

Prostate cancer often shows no symptoms until advanced stages. Experiencing the following symptoms should prompt a visit with your doctor for evaluation and screening.

1. Difficulty urinating may present itself as trouble starting or maintaining a steady stream of urine.
2. Frequent urination, particularly during the night, is another common symptom.
3. Blood in urine or semen should never be ignored.
4. Pain while urinating may develop due to the prostate's anatomical position surrounding the urethra and surrounding nerves and muscles.
5. Sexual issues, such as erectile dysfunction or painful ejaculation, may arise.

Prostate cancer treatment

Treatment options for prostate cancer vary based on several factors, including the cancer's stage, the patient's age, overall health and personal preferences. Common treatments include surgery, radiation therapy, hormone therapy, chemotherapy and active surveillance.

Prostate cancer can be deadly when men ignore potential warning signs that indicate a more advanced form of cancer. Understanding these signs and symptoms, along with what to do with this information, can potentially save your life.

If you're concerned about prostate health or notice any symptoms, consult with your primary care doctor or a urologist for further examination.