I’m afraid I have cancer

Consider whether you have noticed the following symptoms and if you have experienced at least one of the following problems, you may not have prostate cancer but should see your GP or urologist directly:

• Difficulty urinating.
• Difficulty starting to urinate, inability to stop urinating.
• Frequent urination, especially at night.
• Weak and intermittent stream of urine.
• Pain, burning when urinating.
• Blood in urine or semen.
• Problems with erection.
• Pain in pelvis, back.

How should you proceed

Of course, even these symptoms may not immediately mean prostate cancer; it could be an enlarged prostate, or an infection or inflammation. However, it’s still a good idea to seek medical advice and then see a doctor for regular check-ups. It is the only way to detect possible prostate cancer early.

Currently, there are several ways that help doctors in making a definitive diagnosis of prostate cancer – rectal examination, PSA test, prostate biopsy, prostate ultrasound, MRI or a PET/CT scan. You can learn more about all diagnostic methods here.