American Cancer Society information about prostate cancer

Prostate cancer begins in the prostate gland. Decisions are shaped by the tumour's features, whether it remains within the prostate, your symptoms, general health and preferences.

General cancer resources explain common pathways, but they cannot determine your diagnosis or recommend one option from a search term alone. A clinician may combine examination findings, blood tests, imaging and a tissue sample before discussing the cancer's extent and behaviour.

Some prostate cancers can be monitored closely, while others need active treatment. Possible approaches include surgery, external or internal radiation, medicines that affect hormones, and treatments directed at cancer elsewhere in the body. The balance of benefit and side effects differs for each person.

If you are awaiting assessment, record urinary changes, pain, medicines and relevant family history. Bring your test reports and a current medication list to the appointment. If cancer has been confirmed, ask which findings establish its stage and risk group, and whether monitoring is a reasonable option.

Before treatment, discuss urinary control, sexual function, bowel effects, fertility and recovery. These concerns can influence the choice between prostate removal surgery, radiotherapy and other approaches. A second specialist opinion may help when several medically suitable choices are available.

Arrange a medical assessment for persistent difficulty starting or passing urine, blood in urine or semen, unexplained weight loss, or ongoing pain in the back, hips or pelvis. These symptoms have several possible causes and need clinical evaluation rather than self-diagnosis.

Seek urgent help if you cannot pass urine, develop new leg weakness or numbness, lose control of your bladder or bowels, or have severe rapidly worsening back pain. During treatment, follow the oncology team's instructions for fever, heavy bleeding, breathing difficulty or sudden deterioration.

Ask: What do my biopsy and scans show? Has the cancer spread beyond the prostate? What are the aims and likely trade-offs of each option? How will treatment affect urination and sexual health? Which symptoms should prompt an urgent call, and who should I contact outside clinic hours?