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What is Prostate Cancer?

Prostate cancer is the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells in the prostate. These abnormal cells divide and accumulate, forming a tumor. The tumor can then grow to invade other tissue and can also spread to other parts of the body. It is the second most common cancer among Singaporean men. Many prostate cancers grow slowly and do not cause any symptoms. These slow-growing cancers usually do not cause serious harm. However, some prostate cancers can grow aggressively and spread quickly, which may cause serious harm.

Source Material: You and Prostate Cancer

There are, however, other types of rarer cancers of the prostate. These include:

  • Small cell carcinoma
  • Neuroendocrine tumors
  • Transitional cell carcinoma

Almost all prostate cancers develop from the gland cells — cells that make the prostate fluid found in semen. This is known as adenocarcinoma.

What are the Symptoms of Prostate Cancer?

Early stages of cancer

  • Frequent urination, especially at night
  • Difficulty passing urine
  • Slowing of the flow of urine
  • Pain during urination
  • Blood in the urine or semen
  • Weak stream of urine

The early stages of cancer often have no symptoms. However, the growth of cancer in the gland may cause these symptoms.

These symptoms could also be caused by other conditions besides prostate cancer. Problems with urination can be caused by benign prostatic hyperplasia — a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate. It is, however, still important to consult your doctor so that these causes may be treated appropriately.

Later stages of cancer

In the later stages of prostate cancer, the following symptoms may be present:

  • Bone pain
  • Leg swelling
  • Loss of appetite
  • Weight loss

 

Disclaimer: The content for this article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your oncologist with any questions regarding a medical condition. Do not disregard medical advice or delay seeking it based on information from this site.

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