Talking about prostate cancer symptoms remains uncomfortable for many men, especially because this disease often progresses silently. The problem is that, when the most obvious signs appear, the cancer may already be in an advanced stage.
In the Dominican Republic, the outlook is concerning. The incidence of prostate cancer is the highest in Central America and the Caribbean, and it ranks 37th worldwide, according to data cited by the Central American and Caribbean Federation of Pharmaceutical Laboratories (FEDEFARMA). Furthermore, the Global Cancer Observatory (GLOBOCAN) records around 4,918 new cases and 2,120 deaths per year in the country.
“Although it is one of the most common cancers in men, prostate cancer can be treated with higher chances of success when detected early. The problem is that many people do not seek medical attention until the symptoms are already more evident,” explains Dr. Dror Michaelson, director of the Hematology and Oncology Fellowship Program at Massachusetts General Hospital.
We recommend reading:June 13: World Skin Cancer Day
What prostate cancer symptoms are like
Prostate cancer develops in the prostate gland, a small organ of the male reproductive system responsible for producing part of the seminal fluid. One of the main challenges is that, in its early stages, it may not cause discomfort. For this reason, many people are unaware they have the disease until more noticeable symptoms begin.
Among the most frequent prostate cancer symptoms in advanced stages are:
• Difficulty urinating
• Decreased force in the urinary stream
• Blood in the urine or semen
• Unexplained weight loss
• Bone pain
• Erectile dysfunction
More Read
These symptoms do not always mean cancer, but they are signs that should be evaluated by a doctor.
What are the first symptoms of prostate cancer
One of the biggest problems is that the first changes are often confused with urinary discomfort associated with aging. Some people begin to notice that it takes them longer to urinate, that the urinary flow is weaker, or that they need to get up several times at night to go to the bathroom. Although these changes can be related to other prostatic conditions, they can also be an early sign of cancer, so they should not be normalized or ignored.
“Waiting for symptoms to worsen can delay diagnosis and reduce options for timely treatment,” explains the specialist from Mass General Brigham, a healthcare system that brings together the best minds in medicine to improve the lives of patients around the world.
Factors that increase risk
“Age and family history are the main risk factors. Men over 50 years of age have a higher probability of developing this disease, especially if there is a history in close relatives such as a father, grandfather, or uncles,” points out Dr. Dror Michaelson.
More Read
However, other factors can also influence it, such as an unhealthy diet, a sedentary lifestyle, being overweight, and environmental factors. “Improving overall health can help reduce the risk. Maintaining physical activity, managing weight, and following a balanced diet are measures that promote not only prostate health but also overall well-being,” indicates the specialist from Massachusetts General Hospital.
PSA prostate analysis: the most used test
Currently, the main detection method is the PSA prostate analysis, a blood test that measures the levels of prostate-specific antigen. When PSA appears elevated, it does not necessarily mean cancer, but it does indicate that additional studies may be required.
Based on that result, the doctor may recommend repeating the test after a few months, performing an MRI, doing a prostatic ultrasound, or requesting a biopsy. Generally, the primary care physician initiates this process and, if necessary, refers the patient to a urologist.
Prostate cancer detection methods
Detection methods should be evaluated individually, considering age, family history, and general health status. In people at higher risk, testing may begin before age 50.
Talking to your doctor about family history is especially important, as this can modify screening recommendations.
Furthermore, detecting cancer at early stages considerably expands treatment options and improves the prognosis.
What treatments currently exist
Prostate cancer treatment depends on how advanced it is and how aggressive it is. To determine this, specialists use the Gleason system, which helps assess the speed at which the tumor could grow or spread. Among the treatment options are:
• Radiotherapy
• Surgery
• Chemotherapy
In some cases, when the cancer grows slowly, the doctor may opt for active surveillance before starting more invasive treatments.
The importance of not ignoring the signs
Recognizing the symptoms of prostate cancer and seeing a doctor for any urinary changes can make a significant difference. The problem is that many men delay check-ups due to fear, misinformation, or because they consider certain symptoms associated with age to be normal.
However, acting early remains one of the most important tools to face this disease.
You can also read: The SAV wants to expand its volunteer support network in the fight against cancer
“Although prostate cancer can progress silently, detecting it early considerably increases the chances of successful control and treatment,” concludes the specialist.
About Mass General Brigham
Mass General Brigham is an integrated academic health care system that unites the best minds in medicine to improve the lives of patients everywhere. The system includes 16 hospitals, including 5 nationally ranked by US News & World Report: Massachusetts General Hospital, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Mass Eye and Ear, McLean Hospital, and Spaulding Rehabilitation; as well as community and specialty hospitals, health insurance plans, physician networks, home care, and long-term care services.
Mass General Brigham is a non-profit organization committed to patient care, teaching, and research. With an annual budget of nearly $2 billion, the Mass General Brigham research program is one of the largest in the U.S., funding more than 2,700 clinical trials. Additionally, it is one of the nation’s leading biomedical research organizations and the principal teaching affiliate of Harvard Medical School.
For more information about Mass General Brigham, visit massgeneralbrigham.org/international
