Dr. Pedro C. Barata, an oncologist at the Seidman Cancer Center in the U.S., explains the early symptoms of prostate cancer, how to detect its progression, and why a timely medical evaluation can make all the difference.
Prostate cancer is one of the most common diseases among men, especially those over the age of 60. Although it often develops silently, there are key symptoms that can alert you to its presence, and early detection is crucial for improving the prognosis.
Oncologist Pedro C. Barata, a researcher at the Seidman Cancer Center in the United States, explained that prostate cancer symptoms vary depending on the stage and location of the disease. He emphasized that paying attention to early signs can facilitate diagnosis and the initiation of effective treatment.
Early symptoms of prostate cancer
When cancer is confined to the prostate, the symptoms are usually local and related to the urinary tract, known as lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS). These include:
- Discomfort or feeling of weight in the pelvis
- Changes in the frequency or flow of urination, both during the day and at night
- Nocturia (need to urinate several times during the night)
- Difficulty maintaining a continuous flow of urine
- Urgent need to urinate frequently
- Intermittent presence of blood in the urine
In more advanced stages, when prostate cancer has spread, symptoms depend on the location of the metastases.
If these metastases reach the bones, one of the most common sites, bone pain is usually the predominant symptom. In cases where metastases affect lymph nodes, blockages can occur, leading to problems such as kidney failure .
Other general symptoms that could be associated with an advanced disease are:
- Persistent fatigue
- Loss of appetite
- Involuntary weight loss
Barata emphasized that even in the absence of symptoms, the presence of any of these signs should prompt immediate medical consultation, as prostate cancer can progress asymptomatically during its early stages.
Prognosis and life expectancy
The specialist also explained that the prognosis and life expectancy of patients depend largely on the stage of the disease and the response to treatment. While in early stages (stages 1 to 3), many patients achieve recovery or long-term survival with the disease under control, in stage 4, the five-year survival rate drops to 35%.
However, Dr. Barata clarifies that this diagnosis does not necessarily imply a fatal outcome in the short term. Thanks to advances in treatment, it is now possible to extend life and improve quality of life, even in advanced stages.
“Statistics apply to groups, but for the individual patient, the outcome is either zero or 100: either they’re cured or they’re not. That’s why a personalized approach is essential,” he said.
Quality of life and treatments
Quality of life during and after treatment also varies depending on the type of intervention and the time at which the disease is detected. In patients without symptoms, certain treatments can negatively impact their initial well-being. However, when symptoms are already present, some therapies can even improve their quality of life.
In low-risk cases, active surveillance—without immediate intervention—may be the most beneficial strategy, as it avoids the side effects of surgery or radiation therapy. In contrast, more aggressive treatments such as chemotherapy may temporarily reduce quality of life but allow for better long-term cancer control.
Barata emphasized that each medical decision must be made individually, carefully evaluating the benefits and risks. He added that today there are multiple therapeutic options that allow people not only to live longer, but also with dignity and quality of life, as long as the medical team provides clear information about the available alternatives.
+ There are no comments
Add yours