What should you know about effects of prostate cancer?

Because the prostate surrounds part of the urinary passage, cancer or swelling may contribute to a weak stream, frequent urination, urgency or difficulty passing urine. These symptoms also have non-cancer causes, so difficulty passing urine does not by itself show that someone has prostate cancer.

Prostate cancer that reaches nearby or distant areas may cause pelvic discomfort or bone pain. Hormone treatment can affect hot flushes, mood, muscle, sexual desire and bone strength. Surgery, radiotherapy and other treatments may affect erections, ejaculation, bowel habits or bladder control. The pattern depends on the cancer and the treatment plan.

Tell your team about urinary changes, pain, sexual concerns, sleep, mood and activity levels. Assessment may include examination, blood tests and scans. Treatment choices can include prostate removal surgery, radiotherapy, brachytherapy or targeted radioisotope therapy. Bone-strengthening therapy may be considered when bone health needs protection. Ask about pelvic-floor support, continence aids and sexual-health care before treatment begins.

Seek urgent medical help if you cannot pass urine, develop new leg weakness or numbness, lose bladder or bowel control, or have severe new back pain. These changes can signal pressure on nerves or a urinary blockage. Contact your oncology team promptly for blood in the urine, worsening pain, fever or a sudden decline in function.

How might this cancer affect urination, erections, ejaculation or bowel function? Which effects are temporary and which may continue? Should I begin pelvic-floor exercises or bone-health measures? What symptoms require same-day advice?