# Prostate Cancer **Table of Contents** **Table of Contents** [Overview](#section-overview "Overview") [Signs & Symptoms](#section-5356 "Signs & Symptoms") [Causes](#section-5361 "Causes") [Risk Factors](#section-5366 "Risk Factors") [Diagnosing Prostate Cancer](#section-7686 "Diagnosing Prostate Cancer") [Prostate Cancer Stages](#section-5371 "Prostate Cancer Stages") [Treatments & Services](#section-9016 "Treatments & Services") [Find Care](#section-9021 "Find Care") [Request an Appointment](#section-9041 "Request an Appointment") ## Overview Prostate cancer begins in the prostate, a small gland below the bladder that produces seminal fluid. It is one of the most common cancers in men, especially those over age 50. Many prostate cancers grow slowly and remain confined to the gland, while others are more aggressive and can spread to nearby tissues or distant parts of the body. Because early prostate cancer often causes no symptoms, many cases are found during routine screening or evaluation for other urinary concerns. When detected early and still limited to the prostate, prostate cancer is highly treatable. Understanding the type and growth pattern of the cancer helps guide the best approach to care. ## Signs & Symptoms Prostate cancer often causes no symptoms in its early stages. As the disease progresses, symptoms may develop and can vary based on how far the cancer has grown or spread. Common signs and symptoms may include: - Trouble when starting to urinate - Weak or reduced urine flow - Blood in the urine - Blood in the semen - Bone pain or specifically back pain - Unintentional weight loss - Erectile dysfunction ## Causes The exact cause of prostate cancer is not known. The disease begins when cells in the prostate develop changes in their DNA that affect how they grow and function. These changes cause cells to multiply more quickly than normal and to survive when healthy cells would die. Over time, the abnormal cells can build up and form a tumor. If the cancer continues to grow, it may invade nearby tissues. In some cases, cancer cells can spread to other parts of the body. ## Risk Factors Several factors can increase the likelihood of developing prostate cancer. Having one or more risk factors does not mean you will get the disease, but it may raise your overall chance. - **Older age:** Risk increases steadily with age and is most common after age 50. - **Race and ethnicity:** Black men have a higher risk of developing prostate cancer and are more likely to have aggressive or advanced disease. - **Family history of prostate cancer:** Having a father, brother, or other close relative with prostate cancer increases risk, especially if they were diagnosed at a younger age or if multiple family members are affected. - **Inherited gene changes:** Certain inherited mutations, including BRCA1 and BRCA2 and those linked to Lynch syndrome, can increase prostate cancer risk and may be associated with more aggressive disease. - **Obesity:** Some studies show a higher risk of aggressive or recurrent prostate cancer in men who are obese. - **Diet patterns:** Diets high in animal fats or low in fruits and vegetables may play a role in increasing risk, though research findings are mixed. ## Diagnosing Prostate Cancer Prostate cancer is often found through routine screening, since many men have no symptoms in the early stages of the disease. If screening results are abnormal, additional tests can help confirm a diagnosis and determine how advanced the cancer may be. Below are common steps in the diagnostic process. ##### Screening Tests Screening helps detect prostate cancer early, but recommendations vary. Most men begin discussing screening in their 50s, or earlier if they are at higher risk. Screening tests may include: - **Digital rectal exam (DRE):** A doctor feels the prostate through the rectum to check for changes in size, shape, or texture. - **Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test:** Measures PSA levels in the blood. High levels may indicate infection, enlargement, or cancer. ##### Imaging Tests If screening raises concerns, imaging may be used to take a closer look at the prostate: - **Ultrasound:** A probe placed in the rectum creates images of the prostate. - **MRI:** Produces detailed pictures that can help identify suspicious areas and guide biopsies. ##### Prostate Biopsy A biopsy removes small samples of prostate tissue, usually with a thin needle guided by ultrasound or MRI. A pathologist examines the tissue to determine whether cancer is present. ##### Determining Cancer Aggressiveness If cancer is found, tests help determine how quickly it is likely to grow: - **Gleason score:** Grades cancer cells based on how abnormal they appear. Scores range from 6 to 10, with higher scores indicating more aggressive cancer. - **Genomic testing:** In select cases, gene analysis may provide additional information to guide treatment decisions. ##### Staging Tests Staging shows whether the cancer is contained within the prostate or has spread. Depending on individual risk factors, staging may involve: - Bone scan - CT scan - MRI - PET scan Staging ranges from I to IV, with lower stages indicating cancer confined to the prostate and higher stages indicating spread to nearby tissues or distant organs. ## Prostate Cancer Stages Prostate cancer is classified by how far it has spread. Staging helps guide treatment planning and provides important information about prognosis. Stage of DiseaseWhat It MeansLocalized Prostate CancerCancer is found only in the prostate and has not spread elsewhere.Locally Advanced Prostate CancerCancer has grown beyond the prostate into nearby tissues but has not spread to distant organs.Advanced or Metastatic Prostate CancerCancer has spread to other parts of the body; the most common areas include the bones, lymph nodes, spine, pelvis, and ribs. In some cases, it may also spread to the lungs, liver, or brain. ## Treatments & Services Treatment Options Your treatment plan depends on the stage of the disease, how fast the cancer is growing, your overall health and personal preferences. Our multidisciplinary team works together to create a personalized plan designed to treat the cancer effectively while supporting your quality of life. [Chemotherapy](/all-treatments-services/chemotherapy) [Hormone Therapy](/all-treatments-services/hormone-therapy) [Immunotherapy](/all-treatments-services/immunotherapy) [Radiation Therapy](/all-treatments-services/radiation-therapy) [Radiopharmaceutical Therapy](/all-treatments-services/radiopharmaceutical-therapy) [Surgical Oncology](/all-treatments-services/surgical-oncology) [Targeted Therapy](/all-treatments-services/targeted-therapy) Service Options [Clinical Trials & Research](/all-treatments-services/clinical-trials-research) [Genetic Counseling & Testing](/all-treatments-services/genetic-counseling-testing) [Imaging](/all-treatments-services/imaging) [Nutritional Counseling](/all-treatments-services/nutritional-counseling) [Pain and Symptom Management](/all-treatments-services/pain-and-symptom-management) [Palliative Care](/all-treatments-services/palliative-care) [Patient Support Services](/all-treatments-services/patient-support-services) ## Find Care Our prostate cancer specialists provide coordinated, patient-centered care and the latest treatment options. Our Locations We offer locations across the DFW metroplex so you can receive leading cancer care and support close to home. [Find a Location](/locations) Our Care Team Get to know the compassionate experts who guide your care with a whole-person approach—spirit, mind, and body. [Meet Our Team](/our-care-team) ## Request an Appointment Contact us to request an appointment or ask a question below. **For emergencies call 911 or visit your nearest hospital.** (function(f,o,r,m){g=f[m]=function(a,b){g.q&&g.q.push([a,b])};g.q=[];s=o.createElement(r);s.async=1;s.src='https://script.formsort.com/embed/v2.js';o.head.appendChild(s);g.load=function(p){g('load',p);};g.close=function(){};g.load({c:'oneoncolotg9',f:'ccbd-referral',v:'ccbd-referral',o:{parentEl:'#formsort',s:true,autoHeight:true}});})(window,document,'script','_formsort')