Warning signs of prostate cancer

Possible urinary signs include a weak or interrupted stream, difficulty starting, frequent or urgent urination, or waking often at night to urinate. Prostate cancer may also present with blood in urine or semen, difficulty with erections, or pain on ejaculation. Early prostate cancer may cause no noticeable symptoms.

Prostate cancer can present with these symptoms, but enlarged prostate, infection, stones, and other conditions can cause similar changes. Persistent back, hip, or other bone pain needs assessment, particularly with weakness or numbness, because advanced disease can affect bones.

Arrange a medical review for a new or persistent urinary change, blood, erection problem, or unexplained bone pain. The assessment may include a history, examination, urine testing, a prostate-specific blood test, and further tests based on the findings. Keep track of changes and medicines before the appointment.

Seek urgent help if you cannot pass urine, have severe pain, or see heavy blood or clots. Emergency assessment is needed for new leg weakness, numbness around the groin, or loss of bladder or bowel control alongside back pain.

Ask which tests fit your symptoms, what other conditions could explain them, when results will be reviewed, and which treatments might be considered if cancer is confirmed.