Cancer occurs when cells in the body grow uncontrollably, leading to the formation of a tumour. Prostate cancer is cancer that occurs in the prostate gland and, if left untreated, can spread to other parts of the body. It is also known as advanced or metastatic prostate cancer. The survival rate of a person with prostate cancer can vary depending on how severe their condition is when first diagnosed.
There are various stages of prostate cancer: stages I and II, where the tumour is localised to the prostate; stage III, where the cancer has spread outside the prostate but only to nearby tissues; and lastly, stage IV, in which the cancer has spread beyond the prostate to other parts.
In this article, we discuss the consequences of prostate cancer that has spread outside the prostate, its symptoms, and the importance of early diagnosis.
Also Read: PSA Test For Prostate Cancer Diagnosis: Things Men Need To Know About It
What Is Advanced Prostate Cancer?
Advanced prostate cancer, also called metastatic prostate cancer, occurs when prostate cancer cells spread from the prostate gland to other parts of the body, most commonly the bones and lymph nodes.
This can happen through the bloodstream or lymphatic system.
In an interaction with the OnlyMyHealth team, Dr Samir Gupta, Professor and HOD of Surgical Oncology at Dr. D.Y. Patil Medical College, Hospital and Research Centre, Pimpri, Pune, says, "Advanced prostate cancer can be fatal to many patients. This is because the cancer cells have spread through the lymph channels and blood to other parts of the body."
Prostate cancer was among the most common cancers in 2020, accounting for 10.41 lakh cases worldwide, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). India alone reported 34,540 cases and 16,783 deaths, which is more than 60% of the prostate cancer burden in South-Central Asia.
Symptoms Of Advanced Prostate Cancer
Many prostate cancer patients have been asymptomatic for a long time, says Dr Gupta. This is one of the reasons why the disease is detected at a much later stage in several cases.
In addition, prostate cancer symptoms are similar to Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH), which is a more common prostate condition. This can further pose a challenge to the diagnosis process.
However, the cancer that has spread may cause more noticeable symptoms, urging people to get immediate treatment. These symptoms include:
- Bone pain
- Extreme tiredness or fatigue
- A weak or interrupted urine flow
- Sudden urge to urinate
- Frequent urination, especially at night
- Pain or a burning sensation while urinating
- Blood in the urine or semen
- Constant back, hip, or pelvic pain
- A fast heartbeat
- Dizziness
- Pale skin due to anaemia
The Importance Of Early Diagnosis
Dr Gupta says, “It is extremely important to diagnose prostate cancer early. This is because if detected early, the cancer can be cured completely and the patient can have a normal quality of life.”
According to Cancer Research UK, the chance of surviving prostate cancer for 5 years or more depends on the stage.
For stages 1 and 2, almost all men diagnosed in England between 2013 and 2017 will survive 5 years.
Stage 3 has a very good survival rate as well, with around 95% surviving 5 years.
Stage 4 is more serious, but still, half of the men diagnosed will survive 5 years.
The various methods for early detection of prostate cancer include:
- Inform your doctor as soon as possible when symptoms appear.
- Getting a digital rectal examination to feel the prostate
- Undergoing regular PSA (prostate-specific antigen) testing
Conclusion
Advanced prostate cancer highlights the importance of early detection, which in turn ensures positive outcomes. Early diagnosis leads to timely intervention and, therefore, improves the rate of survival in patients. While prostate cancer in its early stages can be asymptomatic, regular prostate examinations can help detect the disease on time. Therefore, experts recommend men over the age of 50–55 get regular screenings done.