18/06/2026
Good Morning. Today’s Info on Men’s Health Week Is -
Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men, primarily affecting those over 50. It begins in the walnut-sized prostate gland below the bladder. Because it often grows very slowly, early stages usually have no symptoms, making routine check-ups vital.
Risk Factors & SymptomsYou are at higher risk if you are over 50, have a family history of the disease, carry specific gene mutations (like BRCA2), or are Black.
When symptoms do appear—often because the growing tumor presses on the urethra—they can overlap with non-cancerous conditions like an enlarged prostate (BPH). You should consult your doctor if you experience:Difficulty urinating, a weak flow, or stop-start peeingNeeding to urinate frequently, especially at night a feeling that your bladder is not completely empty blood in your urine or semen
Diagnosis & Testing If you notice symptoms or fall into a high-risk group,
GPs and specialists use several methods to check for prostate cancer:PSA Blood Test: Measures the level of prostate-specific antigen in your blood. Elevated levels can signal cancer, though other conditions also cause spikes.Digital Re**al Examination (DRE): A physical exam where a doctor feels the prostate for any hard or irregular areas.
Scans & Biopsy: If tests indicate a risk, an MRI or biopsy may be used to confirm and grade the cancer.
Treatment & OutlookWhen caught early, prostate cancer is highly treatable and often curable. Because some forms are so slow-growing, your medical team may suggest active surveillance (monitoring rather than immediate treatment) to avoid unnecessary side effects.If treatment is necessary, options generally include surgery, radiotherapy, and hormone therapy.
For more tailored information, UK-based patients can use the Prostate Cancer UK Risk Checker or find detailed clinical guidelines through the NHS Prostate Cancer Guide.
