Dr Dawn Harper discusses the symptoms of prostate cancer
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Prostate cancer is a common condition that rarely causes noticeable symptoms until much later. But everyone should still regularly look out for the most common signs of the cancer.
Prostate cancer is the most common type of cancer to be diagnosed in men in the UK, according to the NHS.
The tumour affects the prostate, which is a small gland that’s found in the pelvis of men.
It’s not always easy to know if you’re at risk of prostate cancer, as the symptoms tend to develop very slowly over a long period of time.
But, you could reveal your chances of having prostate cancer by checking your urine.
Some prostate cancer patients find that their urine flow is significantly slower than normal, according to oncologist and senior physician at the Proton Therapy Center, Dr Jiri Kubes.
Alternatively, you might find that your urine stream is interrupted.
That could include difficulty maintaining a constant stream of urine when using the loo.
If you notice any unexplained changes to your toilet routine, you should speak to a doctor about prostate cancer.
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Dr Kubes said: “As with any change in your body, you should keep a close eye on it and seek advice from your GP as soon as possible.
“In some cases there will be nothing to worry about, but it is vital to consult with an expert if you have any doubts whatsoever.
“The main warning signs you are likely to experience when going to the toilet are an increased need to urinate, during the day and night, a slow or interrupted flow and a feeling of still needing to urinate even when you have finished.
“It may be more difficult to start your flow and there could even be traces of blood in your urine.
“Sometimes those with prostate cancer will also experience discomfort when sitting down.”
A weaker stream of urine could be caused by a tumour pressing down on the urethra.
That subsequently causes a backlog of urine – like if a large object was placed on top of a hosepipe.
It can also lead to passing more urine than normal, or having to strain.
Other common prostate cancer symptoms include developing a pain in the back or hips, and finding blood in your urine.
A burning pain while passing urine may also be caused by the disease.
Other symptoms include finding blood in your semen, and passing more urine – particularly at night.
The exact cause of prostate cancer isn’t entirely known, said the NHS.
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