It turns out most men do not know any of the symptoms of prostate cancer.

According to a survey for YouGov, of the men polled, most were generally unable to identify any of the signs or symptoms of the disease – despite the fact it’s the most commonly diagnosed cancer in the UK. Diagnoses overtook those for breast cancer in 2020.

The poll of 1,456 men found 68% weren’t aware of any of the symptoms and even amongst older men – who are most at risk – knowledge is fairly low. In fact, 62% of those aged 50-59 didn’t know any signs, nor did 60% of 60-69-year-olds and 54% of 70 to 79-year-olds. And only one in eight men (13%) spotted the most recognised symptom, which is having to – or feeling the need to – urinate more frequently.

So what else do you need to know about prostate cancer?

Where the prostate is

According to Prostate Cancer UK (PCUK, prostatecanceruk.org), prostate cancer starts in the prostate gland, which is at the base of the bladder and is about the size of a walnut. The prostate gland gets bigger as you age, and its main job is to make the thick white fluid that creates semen when mixed with sperm produced by the testicles.

Initially there don’t tend to be symptoms

Localised prostate cancer (contained inside the prostate) doesn’t usually trigger any symptoms. Signs don’t normally appear until the prostate is big enough to affect the urethra (the tube that carries urine from the bladder out of the penis).

If symptoms do kick in, they’ll likely affect you when urinating

If the prostate does become enlarged, it may lead to an increased need to wee, straining while you wee, a weak flow, dribbling urine after you finish, and a feeling that your bladder hasn’t fully emptied.

PCUK says that while some men might have urinary problems, “these can be mild and happen over many years, and may be a sign of a benign prostate problem, rather than prostate cancer.” Another cause of such symptoms can be a non-cancerous enlarged prostate, which is very common. But anyone with any symptoms should get them checked by a GP.

Further symptoms include…

Other symptoms of prostate cancer can include lower back pain or rectal pain or discomfort, as well as difficulties relating to sex, such as blood in the semen, pain when ejaculating or erectile dysfunction. Signs of more advanced cancer can include bone and back pain, a loss of appetite, testicular pain and unintentional weight loss.

How it’s diagnosed

Men with symptoms may have a Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) blood test, as those with prostate cancer may have a raised PSA level. However, Cancer Research UK (CRUK, cancerresearchuk.org) says PSA levels can also be raised in benign prostate conditions, or if you have an infection, so a diagnosis of cancer isn’t usually made on a PSA test result alone. Men may also have an examination of the rectum, which involves a doctor feeling inside the rectum using their finger. There may be scans and a biopsy too.

Not everyone needs treatment

Some prostate cancers grow too slowly to cause any problems or affect how long you live, and because of this, many men with prostate cancer will never need any treatment. However, some prostate cancers grow quickly and are more likely to spread, so do need treatment.

The risk factors and who gets it

You’re more at risk of prostate cancer if you’re over 50, if a close relative (father or brother) has had prostate cancer, or if you’re black. One in eight men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in their lifetime, says PCUK, and this rises to one in four for black men, who are more susceptible aged 45 and over. One man dies from prostate cancer every 45 minutes, according to PCUK.

What you can do to decrease your risk

CRUK says there’s evidence that being active might help to lower the risk of developing prostate cancer. Plus, being overweight or obese increases your risk of advanced prostate cancer. Sticking to recommended alcohol limits, eating a health balanced diet and not smoking are all thought to be potentially beneficial too.

Prostate Cancer UK specialist nurses are available on 0800 074 8383. If you’re concerned about your prostate health and family history, always speak to your GP.