Prostate Cancer

The prostate gland is part of the male reproductive system. It produces the liquid in semen in which sperm live.

What are the symptoms of prostate cancer?
It's not unusual for there to be no clear symptoms until the cancer is advanced, but later symptoms can include problems with urinating, blood in the urine or semen and erectile dysfunction.

How is prostate cancer diagnosed?
Screening tests include a digital examination and a blood test, the PSA. An ultrasound or biopsy may follow.

What are the treatments for prostate cancer?
Some prostate cancers can be safely watched, such as a very slow-growing tumor that isn't expected to shorten life in an older man. For a faster-growing cancer or cancer found in a younger man, some of the treatments may include surgery, radiation, chemotherapy or hormone therapy.

What if prostate cancer treatment leads to erectile dysfunction?
Surgery can cause erectile dysfunction, but if that happens, it can be addressed with drugs, implants and other treatments.

What are the risk factors for prostate cancer?
It most commonly occurs in older men. African-American men are more likely to develop this cancer than are men of other races.

What are some additional resources for learning about prostate cancer?
If you or your loved one is facing prostate cancer, CalvertHealth has a whole range of services designed to help you so you never take this journey alone. Please talk to your CalvertHealth provider or your Nurse Navigator, or check the service pages for information about treatments, services and support groups.

You may also find more information on prostate cancer from the National Comprehensive Cancer Network.