What is Prostate Cancer?
The prostate is a gland in the male reproductive system that produces a milky white substance that makes 30% of semen. Prostate cancer is the disease where cancerous cells start formation in the prostate.
Contrary to other malignant forms, most of prostate cancers don’t grow with a rapid rate, but some do. In some cases, the cancer cells spread to other parts of the body too, bringing more risks from this form of cancer.
Prostate cancer is considered the 2nd most common form of cancer but with a relatively superior rate of survival. This disease has more patients in the developed world.
What are the types of Prostate Cancer?
There are many types of prostate cancer. Let’s look at them:-
Acinar Adenocarcinoma – The most common type that originates from gland cells in the prostate. Ductal adenocarcinoma – It develops in the cells lining the prostate gland’s ducts. Transitional cell (urothelial cancer) – it starts from the urethra. Squamous cell cancer – Originates from the flat cells which lie around the prostate gland Carcinoid of the prostate – It begins from cells of the neuroendocrine system Small cell cancer – It’s formed of tiny round cells Sarcoma and sarcomatoid cancer – It begins from muscle cells.
Sign and symptoms of Prostate Cancer
No symptoms are visible at first, but there may be some in later stages of prostate cancer. Let’s have a look at some symptoms:-
• Frequent urination and augmented urination at night • Problem to start and maintain a steady flow of urine • Blood in the urine • Pain during the urination • Bone pain • Compression of the spinal cord • Feeling of leg weakness
Treatment of Prostate Cancer
Treatment is not required in cases where low-grade prostate cancer is present as it grows very slowly. More so, age is another factor to consider. There are some side effects related to erectile dysfunction and urinary incontinence that make the treatment not feasible.
On the other hand, there are some treatment options that can vary as per the nature of the disease. Before surgery, active surveillance is done. Radiation therapy and cryosurgery may also be needed in specific cases.