Overview
Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in Nigerian men, and men of African descent face higher risk at younger ages. Early prostate cancer typically causes no symptoms at all — which is why men over 45 should discuss PSA blood-test screening with a doctor rather than waiting for urinary problems. Caught early, it is very treatable.
Symptoms
- Often none in early stages
- Weak urine stream or straining
- Frequent urination, especially at night
- Blood in urine or semen
- Painful ejaculation
- Bone pain in the back or hips (advanced disease)
- Unexplained weight loss (advanced)
Causes & risk factors
- Increasing age, especially over 50 (over 45 for African men)
- African ancestry
- Family history of prostate cancer
- Diets heavy in red and processed meat may contribute
Treatment & self-care
Assessment combines a PSA blood test, examination and, where indicated, scans and biopsy. Treatment depends on age and stage — options range from active monitoring of slow-growing disease to surgery, radiotherapy and hormone therapy, decided with a specialist. From the mid-forties, Nigerian men should discuss screening with a doctor; bothersome urinary symptoms always deserve assessment.
See a doctor urgently if
- Over 45 and never discussed prostate screening
- Blood in urine or semen
- New bone pain in the back or hips with urinary symptoms
- A strong family history of prostate cancer