The prostate is a small gland found only in men, located in the pelvis. It is approximately the size of a small fruit and lies between the penis and the bladder, surrounding the urethra. Its primary function is to contribute to the production of semen by secreting a thick, milky fluid that mixes with sperm produced by the testes to form seminal fluid.

Causes of Prostate Cancer

The exact causes of prostate cancer remain unknown. However, several factors are known to increase the risk of developing this condition. The likelihood of prostate cancer increases with age, with most cases occurring in men over the age of 50.

There is also a slightly higher risk among men who have a first-degree relative (such as a father or brother) who has been diagnosed with prostate cancer.

Treatment of Prostate Cancer

In many men diagnosed with early-stage prostate cancer that is not causing symptoms, immediate treatment may not be necessary. Instead, an approach known as active surveillance or watchful waiting may be adopted, which involves careful and regular monitoring of the condition.

Some cases of prostate cancer can be cured if detected and treated at an early stage. Treatment options include surgical removal of the prostate (prostatectomy), radiation therapy, and hormone therapy.

In some patients, prostate cancer is diagnosed only at an advanced stage after it has spread to other parts of the body—most commonly to the bones. In such cases, cure is no longer possible, and treatment focuses on prolonging life and alleviating symptoms.

All treatment options may be associated with significant side effects, such as erectile dysfunction and urinary incontinence. For this reason, many men choose to delay treatment until there are clear signs that the cancer is progressing.

Newer treatment approaches, such as high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) and cryotherapy, aim to reduce these side effects. These techniques may be used as alternatives to surgery, radiation, or hormone therapy; however, their long-term effectiveness has not yet been fully established.

Living with Prostate Cancer

Because prostate cancer typically progresses very slowly, many individuals can live for decades without experiencing symptoms or requiring treatment. Nevertheless, the disease can still have a significant impact on a patient’s life.

In addition to physical complications such as erectile dysfunction and urinary incontinence, the diagnosis of prostate cancer itself can—understandably—lead to psychological distress, including anxiety or depression.