What you need to know about Prostate Cancer
Prostate cancer develops in the prostate gland, a small gland in men responsible for producing fluid that nourishes and transports sperm. It is one of the most common cancers affecting men, particularly over the age of 50. In many cases, prostate cancer grows slowly and may not cause symptoms in its early stages. Early detection through regular screening is essential, as treatment is most effective before the cancer spreads.
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Affects the prostate gland in men
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One of the most common cancers in men
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Often develops slowly with no early symptoms
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Early detection greatly improves outcomes
What you need to know about Prostate Cancer
Prostate cancer develops in the prostate gland, a small gland in men responsible for producing fluid that nourishes and transports sperm. It is one of the most common cancers affecting men, particularly over the age of 50. In many cases, prostate cancer grows slowly and may not cause symptoms in its early stages. Early detection through regular screening is essential, as treatment is most effective before the cancer spreads.
​
-
Affects the prostate gland in men
-
One of the most common cancers in men
-
Often develops slowly with no early symptoms
-
Early detection greatly improves outcomes
Risk Factors
The exact cause of prostate cancer is not fully understood, but several risk factors may increase the likelihood of developing the disease.
• Age (risk increases significantly after 50)
• Family history (father or brother with prostate cancer)
• Genetic factors
• Geographic and ethnic background
• Diet high in red meat or high-fat dairy
• Possible links to obesity and lifestyle factors
Risk Factors
The exact cause of prostate cancer is not fully understood, but several risk factors may increase the likelihood of developing the disease.
• Age (risk increases significantly after 50)
• Family history (father or brother with prostate cancer)
• Genetic factors
• Geographic and ethnic background
• Diet high in red meat or high-fat dairy
• Possible links to obesity and lifestyle factors
Symptoms
Prostate cancer often shows no symptoms in its early stages. When symptoms do appear, they are usually related to urinary function or sexual health. More advanced cancer may present with additional symptoms.
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Frequent need to urinate, especially at night
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Difficulty starting or maintaining urination
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Weak or interrupted urine flow
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Painful urination or ejaculation
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Blood in urine
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Erectile dysfunction
Stages
Prostate cancer progression varies from slow-growing to aggressive forms. Early-stage cancer is usually confined to the prostate, while advanced stages involve spread to other parts of the body.
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Early stage: Cancer confined to the prostate
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Locally advanced: Spread to nearby tissues
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Advanced stage: Spread to bones or other organs
Stages
Prostate cancer progression varies from slow-growing to aggressive forms. Early-stage cancer is usually confined to the prostate, while advanced stages involve spread to other parts of the body.
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Early stage: Cancer confined to the prostate
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Locally advanced: Spread to nearby tissues
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Advanced stage: Spread to bones or other organs
Diagnoses
Treatment
Diagnosis involves a combination of physical examinations, blood tests, and imaging. These tests help confirm the presence of cancer and determine its stage.
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• PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) blood test
• Digital rectal examination (DRE)
• Ultrasound or MRI scans
• Biopsy to confirm cancer
Treatment depends on the stage and aggressiveness of the cancer, as well as the patient’s overall health. Some cases may not require immediate treatment.
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• Active surveillance (monitoring without immediate treatment)
• Surgery (removal of the prostate)
• Radiation therapy
• Hormone therapy (androgen deprivation therapy)
• Chemotherapy (for advanced cases)
Contact Us
CAN Head Office
90 John Meinert Street
Windhoek West, Namibia
Phone: +264 61 237 740
National Line Switchboard: +264 81 953 7740
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Contact Us
CAN Erongo Centre
3 Ferdinand Stich Street
Swakopmund, Namibia
National Line: +264 81 953 7740 Option #7
