MEN'S HEALTH MATTERS
Health Services - Prostate Cancer
What Is the Prostate?
The prostate gland is a small, walnut-sized organ located at the base of the bladder in men. As men age, prostate problems become more common—about 1 in 4 men over 55 experience some form of prostate issue.
Common prostate conditions include:
- Benign Prostate Hypertrophy (BPH) – non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate
- Prostate Cancer – the most diagnosed cancer in men
Prostate issues can lead to urinary symptoms such as:
- Weak urine flow
- Frequent urination, especially at night
- Feeling like your bladder isn’t emptying completely
If you notice any changes in urination or other prostate symptoms, speak to your doctor today.
Signs & Symptoms of Prostate Cancer
Prostate cancer often develops without early warning signs, but as it progresses, you may experience:
- Frequent or sudden urge to urinate
- Difficulty starting or stopping urination
- Discomfort or pain when urinating
- Blood in urine or semen
- Pain in the lower back, upper thighs, or hips
Don’t Wait for Symptoms
Many prostate issues — including prostate cancer — can progress quietly.
If you’re over 50, have a family history, or are experiencing any urinary changes, now is the time to check in with your GP.
How is Prostate Cancer Diagnosed?
One of the most important signs of prostate issues is a change in urinary symptoms.
If you present with concerns, your doctor may recommend:
A physical examination of the prostate
An ultrasound to assess prostate health
Some men choose to undergo regular PSA testing as part of proactive prostate cancer screening. While this isn’t routinely recommended for all men, it’s worth discussing the benefits and risks with your GP to decide what’s right for you.
Learn more about the pros and cons of PSA testing in the article linked here.
Treatment Options for Prostate Conditions
In some cases, active treatment isn’t immediately required. Instead, your doctor may recommend ‘watchful waiting’—ongoing monitoring to ensure the cancer is not progressing rapidly.
Your GP will refer you to a specialist to determine the best course of treatment for your individual situation.
Benign Prostate Hypertrophy (BPH)
Treatment may include:
Medications to shrink the prostate
Surgical intervention, such as a Transurethral Resection of the Prostate (TURP), also known as a “rebore operation”
Prostate Cancer
Treatment depends on:
Your age
Results from a prostate biopsy (TRUS biopsy – Transrectal Ultrasound Guided Biopsy)