
Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers affecting men worldwide. Despite this alarming fact, many men remain unaware of the early warning signs or delay seeking medical help until the disease has progressed. But here’s the truth: early detection can make all the difference. When caught in its early stages, prostate cancer is highly treatable and often curable. That’s why knowing the warning signs is critical — and could potentially save your life.
In this blog post, we’ll break down the early symptoms of prostate cancer, why they’re often ignored, and what you should do if you notice them.
1. Frequent Urination, Especially at Night
One of the earliest signs of prostate issues — including cancer — is a change in urination patterns. Men may find themselves needing to urinate more often, especially during the night (a condition known as nocturia).
This symptom occurs because the prostate gland, when enlarged or affected by a tumor, presses against the urethra, which affects bladder control. Many men assume it’s just a part of aging, but persistent and frequent urination should never be dismissed. If you’re waking up multiple times a night to urinate or feeling like your bladder is never fully empty, it’s time to speak with your doctor.
2. Difficulty Starting or Stopping Urination
Another red flag is trouble starting the flow of urine or stopping it once it has started. This might feel like a weak stream, a delayed start, or a dribble at the end. These issues are commonly attributed to benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) — a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate — but they can also signal prostate cancer.
Ignoring this symptom can delay an essential diagnosis. If your urinary stream feels different or less powerful than usual, don’t chalk it up to age. Get it checked.
3. Pain or Burning Sensation During Urination or Ejaculation
Pain or a burning sensation while urinating (called dysuria) is not normal and should be investigated, especially if it continues for more than a few days. While infections can cause similar symptoms, chronic pain during urination or ejaculation may indicate something more serious, like prostate cancer or inflammation of the prostate (prostatitis).
Similarly, discomfort during ejaculation is a lesser-known but important warning sign. If sexual activity becomes painful or if the sensation during ejaculation changes, it’s worth having a medical professional evaluate your condition.
4. Blood in Urine or Semen
Perhaps one of the most alarming signs of prostate cancer is the presence of blood in urine (hematuria) or semen (hematospermia). This is not common and should never be ignored. Even small amounts of blood that appear once and disappear should be taken seriously.
Seeing blood in these fluids may indicate that the cancer has affected nearby tissues or blood vessels. It might also be due to other conditions like infections or trauma, but only a medical test can confirm the cause.
5. Pain in the Lower Back, Hips, or Pelvis
As prostate cancer advances, it can spread to nearby tissues and bones. Persistent, unexplained pain in the lower back, hips, thighs, or pelvis may be a sign that the cancer has moved beyond the prostate.
Bone pain that doesn’t go away or keeps getting worse deserves urgent medical attention. Unfortunately, by the time these symptoms appear, the cancer may be in a more advanced stage — another reason why early testing is so crucial.
Why Men Often Ignore These Signs
Many men dismiss these warning signs for a variety of reasons — embarrassment, fear of diagnosis, or simply assuming the symptoms are due to aging. However, delaying a medical consultation can be dangerous. Prostate cancer is often slow-growing and may not show symptoms until it has advanced. That’s why proactive health screening is so important.
The Importance of Early Detection
Early detection of prostate cancer dramatically increases the chances of successful treatment. According to the American Cancer Society, the 5-year survival rate for men with localized prostate cancer is nearly 100%. This statistic drops significantly if the cancer has spread to other parts of the body.
Men over the age of 50, or those with a family history of prostate cancer, are especially encouraged to talk to their doctors about prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood tests and digital rectal exams (DREs). These simple screening tools can detect abnormalities long before symptoms appear.
When to See a Doctor
You should consult a doctor if you experience:
- Difficulty urinating or changes in your urinary stream
- Frequent urination at night
- Painful urination or ejaculation
- Blood in urine or semen
- Persistent pain in the lower back, hips, or pelvis
Don’t wait for symptoms to worsen. A timely checkup can provide peace of mind or a critical early diagnosis.
Final Thoughts
Prostate cancer is a serious disease, but it doesn’t have to be a death sentence — especially if caught early. The key is awareness and taking action. Pay attention to your body, don’t ignore persistent changes, and prioritize regular health checkups. Talking to your doctor could be the most important step you take for your future health.
Remember, early detection could save your life.
If you’re a man over 50 or have a family history of prostate cancer, schedule a screening appointment today. Don’t wait — your health is worth it.

Managing Editor,
Lagos Post Online.
Damilare is a disciplined tech enthusiast and media entrepreneur with interest and unparalleled passion for model Web and app design technology. He is a firm believer in the meaningful role research and innovation can play in addressing economic issues across industries and sectors. He’s passionate about online Journalism. Damilare is also a Photographer.
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E: lagospostng@gmail.com