Prostate cancer is one of the most frequently diagnosed cancers in men, especially those over 50. Because it’s so common, many men want to be proactive and keep an eye out for the most common 5 warning signs of prostate cancer.
While prostate cancer often grows slowly, it can still cause symptoms as it advances. In many cases, however, it develops silently, which makes regular screening especially important.
What are the 5 Warning Signs of Prostate Cancer?
These symptoms don’t always mean cancer.
They can also be caused by benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) or infection. Still, it’s important to have them checked by a doctor to rule out serious conditions and get the right treatment.
1. Frequent urination, especially at night
One of the first signs that something may be wrong with the prostate is a change in urinary habits. Many men notice they need to urinate more often, especially at night, a condition known as nocturia.
This can happen when the prostate enlarges or becomes inflamed, putting pressure on the bladder. As a result, the bladder may signal the need to empty even when it’s not full.
If you’re waking up multiple times each night to urinate or making more trips to the bathroom than usual during the day, talk with your doctor.
2. Difficulty starting or maintaining urine flow
Some men describe it as taking longer to get started or feeling like the stream stops and starts mid-flow, causing:
- A weak flow
- Hesitancy
- An interrupted urine stream
This occurs because the urethra, the tube that carries urine out of the body, runs directly through the prostate. As the gland changes, it can narrow this passage, making urination more difficult. You may also feel like you’re not completely emptying your bladder after going.
3. Blood in urine or semen
Any sign of blood in the urine, known as hematuria, or semen (hematospermia) should be evaluated right away. In some cases, this may appear as a pinkish or rust-colored tint. Even small amounts of blood can be a signal that something is irritating or damaging the surrounding tissues.
Blood in these fluids can come from infections or injuries. However, it might also indicate cancer affecting blood vessels or structures near the prostate or urinary tract.
4. Pain or stiffness in the lower back, hips, or thighs
When prostate cancer spreads beyond the gland itself, a process known as metastasis, it often travels to the bones. Common areas of discomfort include the lower back, hips, pelvis, or upper thighs.
If you have ongoing pain or stiffness in these areas, it might be a warning sign. This is especially true if the pain worsens or doesn’t go away with rest. It could indicate advanced cancer. This type of pain tends to feel different from the typical aches and pains associated with aging or arthritis.
5. No symptoms at all
Many men with early-stage prostate cancer feel completely healthy. This silent phase is common, and it’s one reason why screening plays such a key role in detection.
By the time symptoms appear, the cancer may already be more advanced. That’s why doctors recommend regular screening for men at appropriate ages and risk levels.
Why Screening Matters
Because prostate cancer may not cause symptoms early on, two main screening tests are used to catch it before it spreads:
1. PSA (prostate-specific antigen) blood test
PSA is a protein made by both normal and cancerous prostate cells. Elevated PSA levels can suggest something is wrong with the prostate, though they’re not specific to cancer. Higher levels can also occur due to BPH or infection.
2. Digital rectal exam (DRE)
During a DRE, a doctor gently feels the prostate through the rectal wall to check for irregularities like hard spots, lumps, or asymmetry.
Screening is generally recommended starting at age 50 for men at average risk, or as early as age 45 for men with risk factors such as:
- A family history of prostate cancer
- African American ethnicity
- Multiple affected relatives or early-onset prostate cancer in the family
Should I See My Doctor?
If you’re due for screening or are noticing any of the 5 warning signs of prostate cancer, make an appointment for evaluation. Early detection often leads to more treatment options and better long-term outcomes.
Don’t continue to stay at home wondering, “What are the 5 warning signs of prostate cancer?” – call (541) 334-3350 to schedule an appointment today!