• Published on: Sep 10, 2021
  • 3 minute read
  • By: Second Medic Expert

What Are The Symptoms, Causes, And Treatment Of Prostate Cancer?

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What are the symptoms, causes, and treatment of Prostate cancer?

The different types of prostate cancer are generally classified by grade, degree of progression and staging. Treatment options include surgery, radiation, hormone therapy to suppress testosterone production or blocking the activity of hormones produced by other endocrine glands that stimulate the growth of prostate cancer cells.

Surgical treatment is often recommended when prostate tumors are detected in their early stages-localized stage-as it can usually eliminate them or control tumor growth, so they don't depend on hormones to survive. Surgery may also be recommended if the tumor cannot be seen clearly enough for an accurate diagnosis with imaging tests. Your physician may advise you about this option after discussing your medical history and physical examination results with you.

Symptoms of prostate cancer can be like the symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia. After noticing these or other symptoms, a doctor will perform a digital examination and ask some general health questions. Possible tests may include an analysis of the fluid secreted by the prostate gland when urinating (known as a "prostate-specific" antigen test), a biopsy, an MRI or CT scan imaging exam, or bone scans to rule out metastasis. Treatment may consist of certain medications that slow down tumor growth including finasteride and others; radiation therapy; surgery with prostatectomy to remove the bladder neck and sectioning/removal of all remaining tissue from within the urinary tract to prevent further spread beyond.

Prostate cancer has no signs or symptoms, so the only prevention is to get screened.

More information to include in the answer: There are several different types of prostate cancer that can be detected with a prostate exam. Some require surgery while others do not. Once diagnosed, treatment for these cancers often focuses on palliative care measures to relieve pain and other bothersome symptoms because prostate tumors rarely spread beyond the confines of this gland; they are considered localized or regional tumors. Treatment for advanced cancers may involve hormone therapy (antiandrogens) or chemotherapy (taxanes like docetaxel).

The symptoms of prostate cancer are also nonspecific and might include a change in frequency or volume of urine flow. An in-depth medical exam often determines the diagnosis, but anxieties in men over forty should be assuaged by getting a PSA test when appropriate. The causes sometimes arise from general conditions common from age 40 on which drive prostate cancer up from 1 out of 100 for people under 40 to 1 out of 4 for people over 80 - such as obesity, diabetes, elevated blood level cholesterol, family history and so forth. It's extra important to look after what we eat and how we live if we have one or more of these conditions already present.

Prostate cancer is the most common type of cancer in men. It is particularly more prevalent in elderly men. Over time, prostate cells may develop genetic damage that can lead to uncontrolled, or out-of-control cell growth. The most frequent cause of prostate cancer is age>40 years and obesity (>120% ideal body weight). Treatment for early-stage prostate cancers include surgery, radiation therapy and hormone therapy drugs.

Risk factors for prostate cancer are advanced age, being overweight or obese, family history of the disease or personal history of other cancers that have affected the gland near the prostate (eg., bladder), heavy consumption of alcohol (>2 drinks/day), sedentary lifestyle involving long periods without exercise (<1>

The symptoms of prostate cancer include difficulty urinating, prolonged or too frequent urination, blood in the urine or semen, pain when passing urine or ejaculating, erectile dysfunction. Possible causes include heredity and dietary factors. Treatments can involve surgery to remove the prostate gland in some cases. Options for this might include nerve-sparing robotic surgery when available.

  • Symptoms of prostate cancer include difficulty emptying the bladder, few or interrupted urination, pain during urination and bowel movement, excessive thin urine (pee), bloody urine or semen.
  • Causes of prostate cancer are close to zero chance of contracting it until you reach your 40's. If you had an older family history that involved prostate cancer, then there is a slightly elevated risk.
  • Medical treatment involves surgery to remove the entire gland or radical surgery where both testicles are removed as well as tissue all around the area called the para urethral region, including some muscle tissue on either side called "the peri spongiosum". This medical procedure may cure tumor not otherwise reachable with surgery.

Most of the symptoms are just a part of an enlarged prostate. The treatment is largely based on the type and stage, so for this answer, I will simply mention recurrences- which can happen in an estimated 5% to 20% of people after being treated. Late-stage cancers have been observed to reach points where they have not been observed to grow or spread but have still appeared to persist. As with any cancer, my suggestion would be that you go see your doctor best suited for your needs if you are concerned about any possible symptoms involving your prostate.

Prostate cancer is the third most common male malignancy and the second leading cause of cancer-related death in men. It primarily arises from glandular epithelium primarily by way of the prostate ducts and invades nearly every other organ system including bone, lymph nodes and blood vessels.

Symptoms may include hematuria (blood in urine), prostatitis (difficulty urinating), and erectile dysfunction; while risk factors that contribute to getting prostate cancer or who can be diagnosed include age (>50 years old); race (African American); family history of prostate cancer; sexually transmitted diseases such as human papilloma virus or chlamydia infection; diet with high intake of red meat, animal fat, dairy products.

Symptoms of prostate cancer may include difficulty urinating, pain or burning during urination, blood in the urine or semen, frequent trips to the bathroom at night (nocturia) and trouble starting a steady flow of urine. Causes of prostate cancer are related to genetic factors as well as environmental exposure to substances such as pesticides or components in processed foods.

Treatment for Prostate cancer varies depending on its severity. For example, if the tumor is small and is not growing fast it may be watched carefully with regular testing until it grows large enough to produce symptoms like difficulty urinating.

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Diabetes symptoms

Diabetes Symptoms in Men: Early Warning Signs You Should Not Ignore

Diabetes is one of the fastest-growing health challenges worldwide, and men are particularly vulnerable to its long-term complications. In India, the burden of diabetes has increased sharply over the past two decades, driven by lifestyle changes, sedentary habits and dietary patterns. Despite this, many men remain unaware of early diabetes symptoms or delay medical consultation until complications develop.

Understanding diabetes symptoms in men is essential for early diagnosis, effective management and prevention of serious health consequences.

 

What Is Diabetes?

Diabetes is a chronic metabolic disorder characterised by high blood sugar levels due to:

  • insufficient insulin production
     

  • ineffective insulin action
     

  • or both
     

The most common form affecting men is type 2 diabetes, which is strongly linked to lifestyle factors.

 

Why Men Are at Higher Risk

Several factors increase diabetes risk in men:

  • higher abdominal fat accumulation
     

  • smoking and alcohol consumption
     

  • irregular eating patterns
     

  • work-related stress
     

  • lower healthcare-seeking behaviour
     

According to Indian Council of Medical Research data, a significant proportion of men remain undiagnosed until advanced stages.

 

Early Diabetes Symptoms in Men

Frequent Urination

Excess sugar in the blood causes kidneys to work harder, leading to increased urination, especially at night.

 

Excessive Thirst

Frequent urination leads to dehydration, causing constant thirst.

 

Fatigue and Weakness

Cells cannot utilise glucose efficiently, resulting in low energy levels and persistent tiredness.

 

Unexplained Weight Changes

Men may experience unexplained weight loss despite normal or increased appetite.

 

Increased Hunger

Insulin resistance prevents glucose from entering cells, triggering frequent hunger.

 

Diabetes Symptoms Unique or Commonly Seen in Men

Erectile Dysfunction

Diabetes damages blood vessels and nerves, leading to erectile dysfunction.

Studies show a strong association between diabetes and male sexual health problems.

 

Reduced Testosterone Levels

Men with diabetes often have lower testosterone, affecting libido, muscle mass and mood.

 

Decreased Muscle Strength

Poor glucose utilisation affects muscle health and physical stamina.

 

Skin and Infection-Related Symptoms

Slow-Healing Wounds

High blood sugar impairs wound healing, increasing infection risk.

 

Frequent Infections

Men with diabetes are more prone to:

  • skin infections
     

  • urinary tract infections
     

  • fungal infections
     

 

Vision and Nerve Symptoms

Blurred Vision

Fluctuating blood sugar affects eye lenses, causing blurred vision.

 

Tingling or Numbness

Nerve damage, known as diabetic neuropathy, causes tingling or numbness in hands and feet.

 

Why Diabetes Symptoms Are Often Ignored by Men

Many men dismiss symptoms as:

  • work-related fatigue
     

  • ageing
     

  • stress
     

This delay increases the risk of complications.

 

Long-Term Complications of Untreated Diabetes

If untreated, diabetes can lead to:

  • heart disease
     

  • kidney failure
     

  • nerve damage
     

  • vision loss
     

  • sexual dysfunction
     

According to WHO and Lancet studies, early detection significantly reduces complication risk.

 

Importance of Early Diagnosis

Early diagnosis allows:

  • better blood sugar control
     

  • lifestyle modification
     

  • prevention of organ damage
     

Routine screening is crucial, even in the absence of symptoms.

 

When Should Men Get Tested?

Men should consider testing if they:

  • are over 30 years old
     

  • have a family history of diabetes
     

  • are overweight
     

  • have a sedentary lifestyle
     

  • experience any warning signs
     

Annual screening is recommended for at-risk individuals.

 

Managing Diabetes After Diagnosis

Effective management includes:

  • healthy diet
     

  • regular physical activity
     

  • weight control
     

  • stress management
     

  • medical treatment as advised
     

Early management improves quality of life.

 

Role of Preventive Healthcare

Preventive healthcare focuses on:

  • early screening
     

  • lifestyle intervention
     

  • regular follow-up
     

According to NITI Aayog, preventive strategies are essential to control India’s diabetes burden.

 

Mental Health and Diabetes in Men

Diabetes can affect mental wellbeing, leading to:

  • stress
     

  • anxiety
     

  • depression
     

Addressing emotional health improves diabetes outcomes.

 

Breaking the Stigma Around Men’s Health

Men often avoid seeking help due to stigma.

Promoting awareness helps:

  • normalise health conversations
     

  • encourage timely medical care
     

  • reduce preventable complications
     

 

Conclusion

Diabetes symptoms in men often develop gradually and may go unnoticed for years. Frequent urination, fatigue, unexplained weight changes and sexual health issues should never be ignored. Early diagnosis and timely management significantly reduce the risk of serious complications and improve long-term health outcomes. Awareness, routine screening and proactive healthcare are essential steps for men to protect their health and wellbeing in an era of rising lifestyle diseases.

 

References

  • Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) – Diabetes Epidemiology and Risk Studies
  • World Health Organization (WHO) – Diabetes Prevention and Management Guidelines
  • National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5) – Diabetes Prevalence in Men
  • Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology – Male-Specific Diabetes Outcomes
  • NITI Aayog – Non-Communicable Disease Prevention Reports
  • Statista – Global Diabetes Trends and Gender Differences

 

See all

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