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In 2022, Lisa Barron’s husband, Jeff, began experiencing urinary symptoms that doctors attributed to a urinary tract infection (UTI). Having lost friends and family to prostate cancer, Jeff pushed for a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test. The results suggested a high likelihood of prostate cancer, setting off a winding journey for the Barrons.
“There were months of sleepless nights, endless waits for test results and the silent fear of ‘what if,'” Lisa said. It was later discovered that the cancer was aggressive and had spread to Jeff’s lymph nodes.
Today, Jeff’s cancer is virtually undetectable. However, the journey does not end here. “We know that ‘undetectable’ doesn’t mean it’s gone forever,” Lisa said. “Each follow-up appointment carries both hope and fear.”
Even if you don’t have a prostate yourself, you probably know or love someone who does. Here’s what you should know about prostate cancer:
Basics of prostate anatomy
The prostate is a walnut-sized gland found in men. It is located in the pelvis – below the bladder, in front of the rectum. The prostate is part of the male reproductive system. It adds fluid to the sperm and transports it through the urethra during ejaculation.
Risk factors
Prostate cancer is very common. “Approximately one in eight men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer during their lifetime,” said Dr. John G. Christensen Jr., board-certified urologist at Northwestern Medicine.
Risk factors for prostate cancer include:
- Older age
- African American race and African ethnicity
- Family history of prostate cancer
- Certain gene mutations or changes
Although there is no proven way to prevent prostate cancer, certain lifestyle changes can help reduce the risk of prostate cancer:
- Reduce consumption of dairy products and other high-fat foods
- Eat lots of fruits and vegetables
- Avoid smoking
- Exercise regularly
- Maintaining a healthy body weight
Prostate cancer symptoms
Prostate cancer doesn’t always have symptoms. “Early stage prostate cancer is often asymptomatic, so the first warning sign is usually an elevated PSA level,” said Christensen.
When early-stage prostate cancer causes symptoms, they typically include:
- Blood in urine or semen
- Frequent urination
- Difficulty starting to urinate
Although prostate cancer is usually detected early, it can spread and cause symptoms of advanced prostate cancer, including:
- Leaking urine
- Back or bone pain
- Erectile dysfunction
- fatigue
- Unintentional weight loss
- Weakness in the arms or legs
Prostate cancer can also cause the following complications:
Prostate cancer treatments
Prostate cancer is usually treatable, especially if it is detected early. “The prognosis for early-stage prostate cancer is excellent, and most men have good cancer control with an essentially normal life expectancy,” Christensen said.
Treatment options typically include:
Prostate cancer screening and diagnosis
Most prostate cancers are detected early, partly due to early detection tests. “The most important screening test is the PSA blood test,” Christensen said. PSA testing is typically recommended for men over 50.
Prostate exams or digital rectal exams can also help healthcare providers detect prostate cancer. They may find that the prostate is enlarged or has other abnormalities that require further examination. Doctors may also order imaging or perform a biopsy to diagnose prostate cancer.
Jeff and Lisa’s story is one of resilience and a reminder of the importance of early detection. Lisa also has a message for spouses and caregivers: “A diagnosis doesn’t just happen to one person – it impacts partners, children and loved ones.”
This educational resource was created with support from Bayer and Merck.
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