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Last Updated: Oct 23, 2019
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Prostate Cancer: What Are the Early Signs?

Dr. GarimaGeneral Physician • 5 Years Exp.MNAMS (Membership of the National Academy) (Ophthalmology)
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Prostate is a part of the male reproductive system. Its main function is to produce seminal fluid, which acts as a medium for travel and survival of sperm.

What is prostate cancer?

When there is an uncontrolled growth of abnormal or defected cells in the prostate, it is called as prostate cancer. This is one of the most common types of cancer diagnosed in men and can be cured with the help of surgery.

Signs of prostate cancer

Prostate cancer is often referred to as a silent killer, this is because the signs are not quite visible in the early stages. However, if you experience any of the following signs, a health check-up and proper screening, is recommended for early diagnosis:

Screening of prostate cancer

Screening of prostate cancer consists of a physical examination and taking a detailed medical history. Also, a few lab tests are recommended like:

  1. Blood test: It helps to check the level of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) in blood. Raised PSA level is alarming, but it doesn’t mean that you have prostate cancer

  2. Digital Rectal Examination (DRE): It involves manual examination of the prostate.

In case your doctor suspects anything abnormal in previous tests, then he may suggest some more tests. This will help to know more about the stage and severity of prostate cancer. The recommended tests are:

  1. PCA3 test: It is a urine examination, which detects for the presence of PCA3 gene. This gene is detected only if there is a growth of prostate cancer cells.

  2. Transrectal ultrasound: This test helps in knowing the location and the area where cancer has spread.

  3. Biopsy: It helps in knowing about the stage of cancer.

It is advised that men older than 50 years, or someone with a family history of prostate cancer, should go for regular health check-ups to avoid any complications later in life.

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