Prostate Cancer Signs, Symptoms and Types

Because it is not an aggressive cancer, there are often no signs or symptoms of prostate cancer in its earliest stages. If you do experience any of these symptoms, be sure to make an appointment with your doctor as they may be a sign of prostate cancer or another medical condition.

What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Prostate Cancer? 

In most cases, the symptoms of prostate cancer develop slowly over time. If symptoms are present, they will vary from man to man.

• Frequent urination
• Struggling with starting to urinate, or trying to hold it back
• Inability to urinate
• Weak or interrupted urine flow
• A painful or burning sensation when urinating
• Blood present in urine or semen
• Difficulty achieving an erection
• Experiencing pain or a feeling of stiffness in the lower back, hips or upper thighs
• Weakness or numbness in the legs or feet, or loss of bladder or bowel control 

If you experience one or more of these symptoms for more than two weeks, see your doctor to discuss the option of doing a prostate cancer screening.

Types of Prostate Cancer

Studies show that prostate cancer can be categorized into five types:

• Acinar adenocarcinoma – nearly all prostate cancers fall into this category
• Ductal adenocarcinoma
• Transitional cell
• Squamous cell
• Small cell

Other rare cancers can develop in the prostate as well including neuroendocrine and sarcoma.