If your family has a history of prostate cancer, being informed about the disease is the best way to stay on the safe side. For instance knowing what it is, what causes it as well as the symptoms enable you to avoid anything that triggers it, and also allows you to seek medical assistance the moment you suspect you are at risk. 

What Is Prostate Cancer? 

To put it simply, and as the name implies, this type of cancer affects the small walnut-shaped gland located underneath the bladder in men known as the prostate. Similar to other cancers, it occurs when abnormal or cancerous cells develop and multiply in this area. It is the most rampant form of cancer among men after skin cancer, and mostly affects the elderly, with six out of ten victims being men over the age of 65. It is less rampant among males below the age of 50 and is even rarer among men below 40. 

In most cases, these cells often grow slowly, and it may take years before the symptoms start showing; hence, it has a high survival rate. However, in some men, they tend to be aggressive and metastasize rapidly to other parts of the body thus becoming life-threatening. The earlier it is discovered, the higher the chances of successful treatment. It is therefore crucial for you to be in the know about the symptoms as you can seek medical assistance the moment you notice any of them, hence enabling you to prevent its spread. But before we get to the symptoms what causes prostate cancer? 

Genetic Mutations 

Even though the exact cause of prostate cancer is yet to be known, genetic mutations have been identified as one of the main risk factors. According to statistics by the American Cancer Society, about 10% of prostate cancer cases are as a result of inherited genetic mutations. These mutations often cause prostate cells to grow uncontrollably, resulting in the development of tumors, which if nothing is done, tend to leave the prostate and spread to other parts of the body. Those who have a history of prostate cancer in their families are at high risk of developing prostate cancer as they are more likely to have inherited damaged DNA. 


Age 

As noted earlier, prostate cancer is more rampant among men at the age of 65 and above. It is therefore essential for those approaching their golden years to get tested regularly. And there are other causes such as geographic location. Race/ethnicity and lifestyle, e.g., those who smoke or obese are at high risk of developing aggressive prostate cancer, that must also be considered. 

Symptoms 

Even though the list below highlights some of the most common signs, it is important to note that if you are experiencing one, it does not mean you have prostate cancer. However, it is vital to take precautionary measures by visiting a certified medical facility for prostate cancer symptoms bourbonnais il testing to be on the safe side. 

– Blood in the urine or semen 
– A burning or painful sensation during urination 
– Difficult urination (experiencing trouble in starting or holding back urine) 
– Decreased velocity in your urine system 
– Difficulty in having and holding an erection 
– More than normal urges to urinate, especially at night 
– Loss of bladder control or feeling as if your bladder is not fully emptied. 

Other symptoms include pain in the testicles, loss of appetite, bone and back pain and also unexplained weight loss. These are often signs that the cancerous cells are no longer confined in the prostate and as such you require urgent medical attention.