Answer:
Dear
Justin,
Prostate cancer
usually doesn't produce any noticeable symptoms in its early stages;
so many cases of prostate cancer aren't detected until the cancer
has spread beyond the prostate.
Less than 5 percent
of cases of prostate cancer have urinary problems as the initial symptom.
Urinary problems
symptoms can also indicate the presence of other diseases.
Prostate cancer
frequently is first detected by an abnormality on a blood test (the
PSA) or as a hard nodule (lump) in the prostate gland.
Patients may also
experience burning with urination or blood in the urine.
As the tumor continues
to grow, it can completely block the flow of urine, resulting in a
painfully obstructed and enlarged urinary bladder.
The symptoms
of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) can mirror late-stage prostate
cancer because the enlarging inner portion of the prostate puts pressure
on the urethra, which can potentially cause urinary problems.
About 80% of men
eventually develop enlarged prostates, but only some experience significant
symptoms. BPH is a normal condition and is not life threatening.
Many patients
do not experience initial symptoms of prostate cancer, making it important
for men who are aged 50 and older to have routine screenings for the
disease.
More than half,
65 percent, of men who are diagnosed with prostate cancer are 65 and
older. Some patients may experience symptoms like urinary problems
and continual pain in the lower back, pelvis or lower body.
