Prostate cancer usually doesn’t cause signs or symptoms early in the disease process; in the United States, it is most often diagnosed through a screening test that measures levels of PSA (prostate-specific antigen) in the blood. The signs include an enlarged prostate gland that feels very hard, has irregularities and/or is asymmetrical. However, most men who are diagnosed as a result of a PSA test don’t have any physical abnormalities of the prostate gland. In general, a needle biopsy of the prostate is performed as a follow-up to the abnormal PSA test.
Report any of these symptoms to your doctor ASAP:
- Urinary troubles (such as weakened or slowed urinary stream; painful urination; or frequent urination, especially at night)
- Inability to urinate (acute urinary retention)
- Blood in urine or semen
- Trouble achieving an erection
- Painful ejaculation
- Back pain
- Discomfort in the pelvic area
- Pain in the hips or the ribs
