The American Society of Clinical Oncology estimates 174,650 cases of prostate cancer this year alone. As the most commonly occurring type of cancer in men–mostly those over the age of 50.
That isn’t to say that you can’t get it at a younger age, but the risk of getting this type of cancer is lower. However, studies have pointed to the growing incidence of prostate cancer among younger males as well. This is owing to environmental factors and early screenings.
The prostate is a small gland that produces seminal fluid for semen. Prostate cancer occurs when a group of cells in a man’s prostate gland grows faster than others. These cells can often spread and affect normal tissue in the adjoining area.
Who is at risk?
Research into the subject found certain risk factors that are common amongst people who’ve experienced prostate cancer. Age is a primary factor in the incidence of prostate cancer. Approximately 60 percent of the cases of prostate cancer are in men over 65 years of age.
Family history is another factor that studies have pointed to as a correlation. Cancer genes are hereditary and can be passed down from one generation to another.
What are the symptoms?
Prostate cancer is marked by certain symptoms. While these don’t definitively determine that you have the disease, it’s important to pay heed to the changes in your body. That discomfort or pain could be nothing, but they could indicate a more serious issue.
Problem urinating
A weak urinary stream or the need to urinate more often may be signs that point to prostate cancer. The enlarged prostate gland hinders the process of emptying your bladder, often resulting in pain as well.
Back and hip pain
The National institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke reports that approximately 80 percent of American adults experience lower back pain at some point in their lives. While not always caused by prostate cancer, back pain is an symptom of the illness.
When prostate cancer reaches advanced stages, the cancer cells begin to spread to other parts of the body. This metastasis can affect the bones of the spine, ribs and hips as well. It is reported that over 60 percent of men with advanced prostate cancer will eventually develop bone metastases.
Joint and musculoskeletal pain has been studied as precursors of cancer, as well. In the longitudinal study, researchers followed up with men after several years and found that the ones with back and hip pain had a greater incidence of cancer.
If you, or anyone you know, are experiencing back or hip pain, you should seek the help of a medical professional. At Houston Physicians’ Hospital, our expert urologists are specialized in treating a host of ailments including prostate cancer. Every urologist in our hospital in Houston, Texas, possesses extensive knowledge of internal medicine and the latest procedures to treat hip and back pain.
Let our primary care physicians and urologists help you with any health issue you may have. If you’re experiencing bone or joint pain of any kind and suspect that you may have prostate cancer, visit our website for more information.