What is Prostate Cancer?
The prostate is a small land in the male pelvis located between the penis and the bladder. The main function of the prostate is to help in the production of semen.
As men get older the prostate may get bigger. If the prostate presses on the urethra it is called benign prostate disease, and is treatable.
How common is Prostate Cancer?
Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men, accounting for 25% of all newly diagnosed cases of cancer. The chances of developing prostate cancer increase with age, and most cases develop from the age of 70.
What are the symptoms of Prostate Cancer?
Prostate cancer normally causes no symptoms until the cancer has grown large enough to put pressure on the urethra. Symptoms can include needing to urinate more frequently, difficulty in starting to urinate, straining whilst urinating, a weak flow, and feeling that your bladder hasn’t emptied properly.
How is Prostate Cancer treated?
For many men with prostate cancer, no treatment will be necessary other than keeping an eye on its progress. When treatment is necessary its aim is to cure or control the disease, and includes radiotherapy, hormonal therapy and surgery.
If access to Specialist Treatment centres is important, choose a policy with London Hospital coverage.