The prostate is a walnut-sized gland located in the pelvis, below the bladder, in front of the rectum, and behind the base of the penis. It surrounds the urethra, the tube that carries urine and semen from the penis. The prostate, along with the seminal vesicles, produces semen.

Prostate cancer is currently the most common cancer in men. In Portugal, it is estimated that 6,759 new cases of prostate cancer emerged in 2020. Estimates from Globocan 2021 suggest that by 2040, this number will increase to 8,216, representing a 21.6% rise.

Despite being the most common cancer in men, prostate cancer is unique due to its slow progression and the delayed onset of symptoms.

Some factors associated with a greater risk of developing prostate cancer are identified, including the following:

• Age: More than 70% of detected cancers affect men over 65.

• Genetic factors: Men with a family history of prostate cancer, especially if diagnosed before age 60, have a higher risk of developing the disease. The closer relatives with prostate cancer, the greater the risk.

• Hormonal factors: Some studies suggest hormonal factors play a role in prostate cancer development.

• Environmental factors: Factors such as air pollution, exposure to certain chemicals and fertilizers. Evidence suggests that diets rich in fruits and vegetables may have a protective effect, while diets high in animal fats may increase the risk of prostate cancer. Vitamin D deficiency and alcohol consumption could also be harmful factors.

Prostate cancer is characterised by its slow evolution. Taking this into consideration, your symptoms may take years to manifest. In any case, the symptoms associated with some cases of prostate cancer may initially manifest themselves through urination disorders:

• Inability to urinate.

• Urinating more frequently, especially at night.

• Urinating in small amounts.

• Feeling pelvic pain or urinary incontinence.

• Urinating blood.
In addition to these symptoms, there may be other less frequent ones:

• Frequent pain in the lower back and/or hips.

• Pain when ejaculating.

• Presence of blood in the semen.

Prostate cancer is generally a silent disease with slow progression and is often asymptomatic (without symptoms), so the appearance of symptoms may indicate advanced disease. Detecting it at an early stage is essential as it allows for treatment with a very high cure rate.

Prostate cancer can be diagnosed through specific medical tests, such as prostate ultrasound (with prior palpation of the prostate through digital rectal examination) and blood analysis of a marker, PSA (Prostate -Specific Antigen). These tests can detect the disease before symptoms appear.

As with all oncological diseases, early diagnosis is essential for better treatment results, improved and prolonged survival, and a lower probability of death.

For more information please contact Grupo HPA Saude on (+351) 282 420 400.