Prostate cancer is one of the most widespread cancers in men and it is estimated that about 1 in 9 men will be diagnosed at one point or the other in their lives. But still so much is unknown about this form of cancer. Without proper knowledge, the chances of catching symptoms early and successfully recovering are significantly lower. Let’s look at what prostate cancer is, what the symptoms are, and what type of treatments you can expect.

What is Prostate Cancer?

Before you can understand what prostate cancer is, it’s important to understand what the prostate and its functions are. The prostate is one of the most important glands in the male reproductive system and is responsible for the production of the semen.

The gland, which is about the size of a walnut, is located right under the bladder and partly surrounds the urethra. Cancer develops when cells in the prostate start behaving abnormally. This can eventually lead to benign conditions like benign prostatic hyperplasia or prostatitis.

However, in some other cases, it could lead to precancerous conditions such as proliferative inflammatory atrophy or prostatic intraepithelial neoplasia. Cancer usually starts forming in the prostate’s gland cell and spreads to other areas when left untreated.

What are some of the Symptoms of Prostate Cancer?

Since your prostate is close to your urethra and bladder, you might feel some urinary symptoms. You might experience pain or burning during urination, have trouble urinating or controlling the flow, have less control over your bladder, or notice blood in your urine.

Other symptoms of prostate cancer may include erectile dysfunction, blood in your semen, painful ejaculation, swelling in the pelvic area, numbness in the legs, hips or feet or chronic bone pain.

What Kind of Treatment is used to Treat Prostate Cancer?

Depending on your health status and the cancer stage, you might be recommended various types of surgery. In most cases, you will have to have your prostate completely removed. In other cases, you will undergo what is commonly referred to as Transurethral resection of your prostate where only parts of the prostate are removed through the urethra. This is often performed before other treatments. Cryosurgery is another option that might be considered. With Cryosurgery, liquid carbon dioxide or liquid nitrogen is used to destroy the abnormal cells through extreme cold.

Other than surgery, you might be required to go under hormonal therapy. This is often prescribed for cancer that keeps coming back. Radiation and chemotherapy are also common options.

Prostate cancer is a serious condition that shouldn’t be taken lightly. The good news is that the chances of recovery are very high if you seek treatment immediately. If you think you may have signs of prostate cancer or simply want to get screened, contact us today to schedule an appointment with the best urologist doctor in NYC.