Prostate cancer develops in the prostate gland — a small organ that produces fluid for semen. It is one of the most common cancers in men but often grows slowly and can be treated effectively when detected early.

Risk increases with age, family history (father, brother, or son with the disease), diet high in red meat, obesity, and limited screening. Most cases are found in men over 50.

Early stages often cause no symptoms. When they do appear, they may include difficulty urinating, weak stream, blood in urine or semen, or pelvic discomfort. These symptoms can also be caused by benign prostate enlargement, so testing is important.

Through two key tests: the PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) blood test and the Digital Rectal Exam (DRE). If either is abnormal, your doctor may recommend further imaging or a biopsy to confirm the diagnosis.

Most men should begin discussing screening with their doctor at age 50. Those with a family history or higher risk factors should start earlier, around age 40–45.

A PSA level above normal may indicate prostate cancer, but it can also be caused by infection, inflammation, or benign enlargement. Doctors usually repeat the test or recommend imaging/biopsy before making a diagnosis.

A biopsy removes small samples of prostate tissue for lab testing. It’s done under local anesthesia, so discomfort is minimal and short-lived. Results help determine if cancer is present and how aggressive it is.

The Gleason score (ranging from 6 to 10) describes how aggressive the cancer cells look under a microscope. Lower scores mean slower-growing cancer; higher scores indicate a more active form that may need prompt treatment.

Yes, advanced prostate cancer can spread to lymph nodes and bones, especially the spine and pelvis. This is called metastasis. Early detection dramatically reduces the chance of spread.

You should consult a urologist or oncologist for next steps. Many hospitals in Pakistan — including PKLI, Shaukat Khanum, SIUT, AKUH, INMOL, and PIMS — have prostate cancer clinics offering full evaluation and treatment plans.

Treatment depends on stage and health status. Options include active surveillance (monitoring), surgery, radiation therapy, hormone therapy, and chemotherapy. Early-stage cancer may need only regular follow-up, while advanced stages require combined therapy.

Some treatments can temporarily affect urinary control or sexual function, but most men recover significantly with time and therapy. Robotic and nerve-sparing surgeries now help preserve these functions more effectively.

Yes. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and low-fat foods, along with regular exercise and quitting smoking, can improve recovery, lower recurrence risk, and boost energy and confidence.

Emotional support is vital. Families can help by encouraging open conversations, attending doctor visits, managing medications, and promoting positive routines. Support groups — both in-person and online — can also provide valuable guidance.

When detected early, prostate cancer has one of the highest survival rates among all cancers. With timely treatment and follow-up, many men live long, healthy lives after diagnosis.