Prostate Cancer And Enlargement: What Every Man Needs To Know

When it comes to men's health, the prostate often doesn’t get the attention it deserves, until something goes wrong. About 30 men out of 100 are suffering from prostate cancer or enlargement.

Whether you're a young man looking out for your future, a concerned family member, or simply curious, learning about prostate cancer and prostate enlargement is an important step in protecting men’s health.

In this article, we’ll break down what the prostate is, how it changes over time, and what it means when we hear about “prostate cancer” or “enlarged prostate.”

What Is The Prostate?

Prostate

Most men do not even know about the ‘’prostate’’. The prostate is a small, walnut-shaped gland found only in men.

It sits just below the bladder and surrounds part of the urethra—the tube that carries urine out of the body.

The main job of the prostate is to help produce semen, the fluid that carries sperm.

Though it may be small, the prostate plays a big role in male health, and when things go wrong with it, it can affect urination, sexual function, and more.

What Is Prostate Enlargement?

Enlarged Prostate

What does it mean when the prostate is enlarged? Is it abnormal? As men age, it’s normal for the prostate to grow. This condition is called benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). The word “benign” means it’s not cancer, so don’t panic. But it can still cause some annoying symptoms.

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However, if a male is young from 20s to 30s and experiences enlarged prostate size, which causes serious symptoms, it is not normal and therefore needs prompt medical attention.

Common Symptoms Of Enlarged Prostate

For a man to know that his prostate is enlarged, there are some sure symptoms that he will experience. Below are symptoms of prostate enlargement:

1. Trouble starting to urinate

2. Weak urine stream

3. Feeling like you can’t fully empty your bladder

4. Going to the bathroom a lot, especially at night

5. Sudden, strong urges to pee

Note: BPH is not life-threatening, but it can make life uncomfortable.

The good news is that it’s treatable with lifestyle changes, medications, and in some cases, surgery.

Prostate Cancer

Prostate Cancer

So, what is Prostate Cancer? Now let’s talk about something more serious— prostate cancer. Prostate cancer happens when cells in the prostate grow uncontrollably.

It’s one of the most common types of cancer in men, especially those over 50.

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In many cases, prostate cancer grows slowly and may not cause major problems.

However, some types are aggressive and can spread rapidly if not detected early.

Early Signs Of Prostate Cancer

So, what are the early signs of prostate cancer? How will I know I have a prostate?

Early signs of prostate cancer can be similar to BPH. Below are some signs of prostate cancer:

1. Difficulty urinating

2. Blood in the urine or semen

3. Pain in the back, hips, or pelvis

4. Erectile dysfunction

Note: In the early stages, prostate cancer often has no symptoms at all. That’s why regular check-ups are so important.

Who Is At Risk Of Prostate Cancer?

How do I know I may develop prostate cancer in the future? Several factors increase the chances of developing prostate issues:

1. Age – Risk goes up after age 50.

2. Family History – If your father or brother had prostate cancer, your risk is higher.

3. Race – African men are more likely to get prostate cancer at a younger age.

4. Diet – High-fat diets and low vegetable intake may play a role.

5. Obesity and Lack of Exercise – These can increase risk and make outcomes worse.

   
   

Prostate Cancer Diagnosis

How do I know I have prostate cancer? One sure way to know you have developed prostate cancer is to visit a healthcare professional. Doctors use a few different tests to check your prostate:

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PSA Blood Test: Measures a protein called prostate-specific antigen. High levels can be a sign of cancer or enlargement.

Digital Rectal Exam (DRE): A doctor feels the prostate through the rectum to check for lumps.

Biopsy: If tests suggest cancer, a sample of prostate tissue is taken and examined under a microscope.

NB: None of these tests are perfect, but together, they help doctors decide what’s going on and what to do next.

Treatment Options For Prostate Enlargement

What are the treatment options for prostate enlargement? If you’ve been diagnosed with BPH (prostate enlargement), you’re not alone—and you have options.

1. Lifestyle Changes: For lifestyle, you need to cut back on caffeine and alcohol, pee regularly (don’t hold it in too long), and also stay active.

   
   

2. Medications: Medications such as Alpha-blockers help to relax the prostate muscles, and 5-alpha reductase inhibitors also help shrink the prostate

   
   

3. Surgery: In serious cases, surgery may be needed to remove part of the prostate.

   
   

Treatment Options For Prostate Cancer

Prostate cancer treatment depends on how aggressive it is. Sometimes, doctors recommend active surveillance —watching the cancer closely without treating it right away. For other cases, treatment may include:

1. Surgery: Removing the prostate gland (prostatectomy)

2. Radiation therapy: Killing cancer cells with high-energy rays

3. Hormone therapy: Blocking testosterone, which helps cancer grow

4. Chemotherapy: Using drugs to destroy cancer cells (in advanced cases)

   
   

Can Prostate Problems Be Prevented?

There’s no surefire way to prevent prostate issues, but healthy choices can lower your risk:

1. Eat a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains

2. Exercise regularly

3. Maintain a healthy weight

4. Avoid smoking and limit alcohol

5. Go for regular check-ups, especially after age 40

How Do I Handle The Emotional Side of Prostate Issues?

Let’s not forget the emotional toll. Dealing with prostate problems can affect a man’s confidence, relationships, and mental health.

It’s okay to feel scared, angry, or confused. However, talking to a doctor, counselor, or support group can make a big difference.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Prostate Enlargement The Same As Cancer?

No. Prostate enlargement (BPH) is not cancer. It’s a common, non-cancerous condition.

At What Age Should Men Start Checking Their Prostate?

Men should start discussing prostate screening with their doctor around age 40–50, depending on family history and risk factors. Men below 40 can also get prostate enlargement, but it’s rare. Most cases occur in men over 50.

Can A Man Live Without His Prostate?

Yes. Some men who undergo surgery to remove the prostate can live full, healthy lives, though there may be side effects like erectile dysfunction or urinary incontinence.

Final Thoughts

Prostate enlargement and prostate cancer are common and often misunderstood health conditions.

The earlier they’re detected, the better the outcome. So, let’s take away the fear and bring in more awareness.

Men, it’s time to start the conversation, get checked regularly, and take charge of your health. And to everyone else—partners, children, and friends—let’s support the men in our lives to live long, healthy, and strong.