7 Warning Signs of Prostate Cancer Every Man Should Know

Prostate cancer rarely causes obvious symptoms in its earliest stages. But small changes that seem like normal aging could point to a bigger issue. Find out how to recognize the signs that many men miss.

According to the American Cancer Society, around one in eight men will face a prostate cancer diagnosis at some point in their lives. It’s a serious disease, but highly treatable. In fact, when caught in its earliest stages, the five-year relative survival rate is nearly 100%.

While kidney stones, urinary tract infections (UTIs), and other conditions can cause blood in the urine, it could also be a warning sign of prostate cancer. A growing tumor can damage or irritate the prostate and the surrounding tissues, allowing blood to pass into the urine.

Since early-stage prostate cancer rarely causes obvious symptoms, knowing how to recognize easily-missed changes is essential. Here are seven warning signs every man should know.

1. Difficulty starting or maintaining urination

The prostate gland sits just below the bladder and surrounds the first portion of the urethra — the tube that carries urine out from the body.

If a tumor grows large enough to press on the urethra, it can disrupt normal urine flow. You may find yourself waiting several seconds before urination begins, or you might notice a weak stream that stops and starts repeatedly.

These issues may also be due to benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), a noncancerous enlargement of the prostate, or another urinary condition. However, new or worsening symptoms always need a professional evaluation.

2. A frequent or urgent need to urinate

When a prostate tumor interferes with urine flow, it can prevent the bladder from emptying completely during urination. As a result, you may feel the need to urinate more frequently, experience sudden urgency, or wake up multiple times in a night to use the bathroom.

3. Blood in your urine

Blood in your urine often appears as a pink, red, or cola-tinged discoloration. In other cases, the amount may be too small to see and is only detectable through urinalysis.

While kidney stones, urinary tract infections (UTIs), and other conditions can cause blood in the uring, it could also be a warning sign of prostate cancer. A growing tumor can damage or irritate the prostate and the surrounding tissues, allowing blood to pass into the urine.

4. Blood in your semen

The prostate produces fluid that helps make up semen. As a tumor grows, it may cause bleeding within the gland that can show up in your ejaculate as red, pink, or brown streaks.

5. Pain when urinating or ejaculating

A sharp pain or burning sensation during urination or ejaculation might lead you to suspect a UTI or a sexually transmitted infection (STI).

These are common culprits, but persistent discomfort can also develop if a prostate tumor irritates or puts pressure on the urethra and nearby tissues.

6. New or sudden erectile dysfunction

Erectile dysfunction (ED) can have many physical and psychological causes. A sudden change — especially alongside urinary symptoms — may point to a prostate issue.

The nerves and blood vessels responsible for erections run closely along either side of the prostate gland. When cancer grows in this area, it can disrupt the nerve signals and blood flow needed to achieve and maintain a firm erection.

7. Back, hip, or pelvic pain

Prostate cancer that spreads beyond the gland and into the bones may cause ongoing discomfort in the lower back, hips, or pelvis. Unlike most ordinary strains and injuries, this type of pain does not improve with rest or stretching, and it may worsen at night.

If you’re experiencing any of these issues, do not wait to address them. Whether your symptoms are related to prostate cancer or another condition, our team can help you find answers and relief.