Prostate cancer: what you need to know now

Prostate cancer is common: about 1 in 8 men will face it in their life. That fact can feel scary, but many cases grow slowly and can be managed. If you're worried, this page gives clear, practical steps - what tests to ask for, what treatments really do, and how to handle side effects.

Screening & diagnosis

Start by knowing your risk: age over 50, family history, and African ancestry raise odds. Talk to your doctor about a PSA blood test and a digital rectal exam (DRE). PSA numbers aren't perfect - high PSA can come from infection or enlargement - but trends matter. If results look risky, the next step is an MRI and often a targeted biopsy. Biopsies confirm if cancer is present and help grade how aggressive it is using the Gleason score or Grade Group.

Treatment options & side effects

Treatment depends on the cancer's grade and stage, your health, and your goals. For low-risk, many men choose active surveillance - regular PSA checks, MRIs, and biopsies - so they avoid side effects while monitoring growth. Surgery (prostatectomy) removes the gland and can cure localized cancer but can cause urinary incontinence and erectile changes. Radiation treats the gland with external beams or seeds; side effects can include urinary irritation and bowel changes. Advanced cases may need hormone therapy to lower testosterone, sometimes combined with chemotherapy or targeted drugs.

Side effects are real, but manageable. Pelvic floor exercises help bladder control. Erectile issues can respond to medications, injections, or devices - ask a urologist. For bowel or urinary problems, a radiation oncologist can suggest adjustments. Mental health matters too; consider counseling or a support group - coping tools can be as helpful as medical treatments.

When deciding, ask specific questions: What stage and Grade Group is this? What are realistic outcomes for each option? How likely are side effects and can they be treated? How will follow-up care work? Get answers in plain language and, if possible, bring a partner or friend to appointments to help remember details.

Second opinions are useful and common. If you're offered immediate surgery, it's okay to pause and seek more input - especially if the cancer looks low-risk. Online resources and patient forums help, but prioritize information from urology centers and cancer hospitals.

Practical tips: keep records of PSA numbers and dates; ask for MRI reports; write down medications and prior surgeries; consider fertility if you plan children - sperm banking is an option before some treatments. Eat well, stay active, and manage blood pressure and diabetes - your general health affects treatment choices and recovery.

If you want quick links, look for materials from national cancer institutes and major urology associations. They offer checklists, question templates, and survivorship plans you can use at appointments. Knowing options and being prepared makes a big difference.

Watch for warning signs: blood in the urine, sudden bone pain, weight loss, or new urinary problems. Don't ignore these. Call your doctor, use care, or go to an emergency room if symptoms are severe. Early care improves options.