Prostate cancer occurs only in men and develops when cells in the prostate gland begin to grow and divide abnormally, beyond their normal limits. These cells can multiply rapidly and, if left untreated, spread to other parts of the body. Understanding what prostate cancer is, why it develops, and how it is treated can help you seek care early, when it is most manageable.
The prostate is a small gland located below the bladder and in front of the rectum. Its size changes with age: the prostate tends to enlarge as a man grows older, and in later life it can become considerably bigger.
Types of prostate cancer
Nearly all prostate cancers arise within the prostate gland, and the disease can be serious if not detected and treated in time. The great majority are adenocarcinomas, but several less common types also occur, including sarcomas, small cell carcinomas and neuroendocrine tumours. Because the behaviour of these types can differ, an accurate diagnosis is important in guiding treatment.
Causes and risk factors
The exact cause of prostate cancer is not fully understood, but several factors are thought to increase the risk.
- Hormonal changes and prostate enlargement: The prostate naturally enlarges with age. However, excessive or early enlargement may be associated with a higher risk, as a larger gland contains more cells that can potentially become cancerous. Factors such as chronic stress and anxiety may contribute to prostate changes, so managing stress and maintaining emotional well-being are worthwhile.
- Obesity: A poor diet and excess body weight can lead to increased fat around the prostate. Being overweight has been linked to a higher risk of prostate cancer and other health problems.
- Alcohol: The prostate relies on a healthy level of zinc to function well. Heavy or regular alcohol consumption can deplete zinc levels, which may affect prostate health.
It is worth remembering that an enlarged prostate is very often due to a non-cancerous condition called benign prostatic hyperplasia rather than cancer, so enlargement alone is not a reason to panic.
How prostate cancer is treated
Several approaches are used to treat prostate cancer, including active surveillance (careful monitoring), radiotherapy, hormonal therapy and chemotherapy. In selected cases, surgery to remove the prostate, known as a prostatectomy, may be recommended. The most suitable option depends on the type and stage of the cancer, your age and your general health, and your urologist will discuss the choices with you.
The importance of awareness and early detection
Everyone should have some awareness of serious conditions such as prostate cancer. While illness cannot always be prevented, timely precautions and regular check-ups can make a real difference. Many men are simply unaware of what prostate cancer is or what to look out for. If you notice any urinary symptoms or other warning signs, do consult a doctor promptly. Early action gives the best chance of treating the disease before it has a chance to spread. If you would like to understand prevention in more detail, see our guide on diet and other considerations for preventing prostate cancer.
Every treatment plan starts with a proper assessment, so you only get the care your condition actually needs. If you have symptoms or a question about your health, book a consultation with Dr. Anish Gupta.