Skip to Main Content
Why Early Detection of Prostate Cancer Is Essential

The importance of early detection in prostate cancer

Posted in: Blogs , English

About 1 in every 9 men will develop prostate cancer during his life. However, many cases progress so slowly that doctors may only recommend active surveillance rather than treatment. Some cases go entirely unnoticed. Should you even consider screening? Read on.

How Essential Is Early Detection?

No two cases of prostate cancer are the same. Some grow slowly while some progress rapidly. Without treatment, slow-growing cancer might spread only slightly over time, but an aggressive tumor might overwhelm the prostate—causing uncomfortable symptoms—or even metastasize.

A metastatic growth occurs when cancer spreads from one location in the body to another. This happens when cancer cells break away from a tumor and travel to a nearby lymph node or blood vessel. From there, it can attach to another part of the body (such as a bone or an organ) and grow, forming a second tumor. Prostate cancer most commonly spreads to bone and lymph nodes.

The 5-year survival rate for men with local prostate cancer (which has not spread to other areas) is nearly 100%. The 5-year survival rate for men with metastatic prostate cancer is about 30%, a steep drop that highlights the importance of detecting the cancer before it spreads.

The 5-year survival rate for men with local prostate cancer (which has not spread to other areas) is nearly 100%. The 5-year survival rate for men with metastatic prostate cancer is about 30%, a steep drop that highlights the importance of detecting the cancer before it spreads.

There are two main types of screenings that your doctor may recommend. The first requires drawing blood to measure the level of prostate-specific antigen (PSA). Higher amounts often indicate the presence of prostate cancer.

The second test is a physical exam in which a doctor puts on gloves, lubricates their finger, and inserts it into the rectum to feel whether the prostate is enlarged. If any of the results point toward the possibility of prostate cancer, your doctor will recommend following up with additional tests.

Early-stage prostate cancer typically doesn’t have any physical signs. However, cases in advanced stages tend to produce the following symptoms, which prompt an immediate trip to your primary care physician:

  • Difficulty urinating
  • Difficulty achieving an erection
  • Bloody urine or semen
  • Pain in the hips, back, or chest
  • Incontinence
  • Weakness or numbness in lower extremities

Recent Updates

8 Colorectal Cancer Myths Debunked: Separating Fact from Fiction

APR 03, 2023

Learn about colorectal cancer, one of the leading causes of cancer deaths in the US. Despite being preventable, cases among people under 50 are increasing. Discover the truth behind common myths about this cancer and how to protect yourself

Read More Additional information about 8 Colorectal Cancer Myths Debunked: Separating Fact from Fiction

9 Questions to Ask Your Doctor at Your Next Checkup

MAR 16, 2023

Going to the doctor can be stressful. Don't forget to ask questions! No issue is too small to discuss, and good communication is key for good care. Bring a list of questions to your appointment.

Read More Additional information about 9 Questions to Ask Your Doctor at Your Next Checkup | St. Joseph Health

Find a Doctor


Looking for a doctor? Perform a quick search by name or browse by specialty.