Understanding Prostate Cancer

What is Prostate Cancer?

The prostate is a small gland, about the size of a walnut, in men that sits below the bladder, just in front of the rectum. It plays an important role in the male reproductive system. Prostate cancer is the second most common type of cancer for men (following skin cancer). Around 1 in 8 men will be diagnosed during their lifetime. The risk of developing prostate cancer increases with age. Prostate cancer is most common in men over age 50.

What Are Early Signs of Prostate Cancer?

In many cases, symptoms do not show during the early stages of prostate cancer. Many cases are detected during a routine PSA (prostate-specific antigen) test. This is a simple blood test that checks for higher-than-normal levels of a substance made by the prostate. Because of this, getting your routine screening is very important!

Some of the earlier prostate cancer symptoms men may experience include:

• Frequent urination
• Trouble starting or stopping urination
• Blood in the urine

These symptoms can also be caused by a non-cancerous condition called benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Doctors may suspect prostate cancer if PSA levels are high or if they find something unusual during a digital rectal exam (DRE). If cancer is suspected, further tests like an MRI or prostate biopsy may be needed to confirm a diagnosis.

How is Prostate Cancer Detected?

There are two common types of prostate exams used to detect prostate cancer – the prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test and digital rectal exam (DRE). If abnormalities are detected using one of these tests, additional testing will be ordered.

• Prostate Specific Antigen Testing (PSA)
  Your primary care provider or urologist can conduct a PSA test. This is a simple blood test that detects issues within the prostate, including an enlarged prostate, benign prostatic hyperplasia, prostatitis or prostate cancer. If your PSA test shows higher than normal levels, you will likely be referred for additional testing.
• Digital Rectal Exam (DRE)
  A DRE is a physical exam of the prostate gland. This type of test is done by a urologist. Using their hand, the doctor will check for irregularities in the size, shape and texture of the prostate gland. Like with PSA testing, a suspicious DRE does not necessarily mean you have prostate cancer. You will be referred for further testing. Additional tests may include a transrectal ultrasound, MRI or biopsy.

How is Prostate Cancer Treated?

If prostate cancer is found early and has not spread outside the prostate, treatment options may include:

• Active Surveillance – Regular check-ups with PSA tests and exams without immediate treatment
• Surgery (Prostatectomy) – Removing the prostate gland
• Radiation Therapy (Brachytherapy) – Using high-powered energy to kill cancer cells, either externally or with tiny radioactive seeds inside the prostate Androgen Deprivation Therapy (ADT) – Using injections or pills to lower testosterone levels to slow cancer growth

Early-stage prostate cancer has a high survival rate, and many men live long lives after diagnosis.

What Happens if Prostate Cancer Has Spread?

When prostate cancer has spread to other areas of the body, like the bones, lungs or liver, it is considered advanced, or stage IV prostate cancer.

Advanced prostate cancer may be treated using:

• ADT (Hormone Therapy) – Using injections or pills to lower testosterone levels to slow cancer growth, which reduces testosterone to slow cancer growth
• Chemotherapy – Medicine given through an IV to kill cancer cells
• Immunotherapy – Boosting the immune system to help fight cancer
• Genetic Testing and Targeted Therapy – Checking for inherited genetic changes to find the best treatment options

How Does Family History and Genetics Play into Prostate Cancer?

Prostate cancer can run in families, making family history an important factor when evaluating risk. If a close relative has had prostate cancer, your risk may be higher. Genetic testing can help determine if you have inherited mutations that could affect treatment options.

Schedule Your Prostate Exam Today!

Many people ask, "when should I get screened for prostate cancer?" Men who are at an average risk should begin routine prostate exams at age 50. Those who are at an increased risk for developing prostate cancer should consider screening at age 45. The best place to start is your primary care provider or urologist. If you don’t have a primary care doctor, Bronson Care Advisors can help you choose one for yourself or your family based on your personal preferences, medical needs, insurance and location. They can even help schedule your first appointment. You can reach a Bronson Care Advisor at (269) 341-7788.

What Should You Do if You're Diagnosed with Prostate Cancer?

Receiving a prostate cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming, but you don't have to face it alone. Trust Bronson Cancer Center, Southwest Michigan's leading healthcare provider, with locations in Kalamazoo and Battle Creek. Our comprehensive cancer care offers expert guidance, cutting-edge technology, and compassionate support every step of the way.

As the most preferred healthcare system in the region, Bronson Cancer Center provides a personalized approach to treating prostate cancer, offering resources and care tailored to your unique needs. Learn more about our regional cancer program and discover how our dedicated team is ready to support you through every stage of your cancer journey.

Learn more about Bronson's regional cancer program.