Understanding Advanced Prostate Cancer: Risks and Symptoms

Essential information about metastatic prostate cancer

Prostate cancer is one of the most prevalent cancers among men and is a leading cause of cancer-related deaths nationwide.

What is metastatic prostate cancer?

Metastatic prostate cancer occurs when cancer cells spread from the prostate to other parts of the body, such as bones or the brain.

This progression often happens gradually, sometimes remaining unnoticed until it advances to later stages.

Advanced prostate cancer can be categorized as local or distant metastasis.

Local metastasis involves spread within the pelvis region.

Distant metastasis indicates spread to other organs like the spine or multiple body parts.

Signs and symptoms of metastatic prostate cancer

Urinary issues such as increased frequency, difficulty urinating, blood in urine, or urinary retention.

Severe abdominal pain, constipation, blood in stool, or bowel control problems.

Unexplained weight loss and general weakness.

Pain or swelling in the groin and legs, which may result from lymph node involvement.

Breathing difficulty and coughing up blood, indicating lung involvement.

Common complications associated with advanced prostate cancer

Bone weakening, fractures, and persistent bone pain.

Hypercalcemia leading to fatigue, dehydration, and discomfort.

Sexual health issues such as reduced libido and erectile dysfunction.

Urinary and bowel disruptions, including incontinence and blood in excretions.

Survival outlook for metastatic prostate cancer

Patients with localized spread have a 5-year survival rate close to 100%, whereas those with distant metastasis have around a 29% survival rate over five years.

When should you see a doctor?

If you experience sudden or persistent discomfort in your spine or other areas, seek medical attention promptly.

While metastatic prostate cancer is currently incurable, early diagnosis allows for treatments that can alleviate symptoms and prevent further spread.